Italian Way of Life Wednesdays

Notice: The better name for this post should be "Not an Italian Way of Life Wednesday"


Pasta is really, really good and there are so many ways that you can fix it. Not to mention, there are so many pastas made in all kinds of shapes and sizes.

But ....

Sometimes a person can get just a little too much of pasta!

This is why I have lovingly decided to treat my family with a special dinner tonight. Did I mention this was a treat?

When our friends came over from the U.S. a few weeks ago, they so graciously brought us a packet of taco seasoning. To you, this may be such a little thing, but to us, it was like putting gold in our hands! It has sat in the cupboard, just waiting for that special moment ... not to soon before we leave ... and not too late either.

It's really hard to get taco shells... I've never seen them here... and the tortillas just aren't the same. So, I've opted to have Taco Soup.

The beans are soaking ....

Later, I'll cook up the meat ....

and I've got all the other ingredients ready to throw in the pot.

For an appetizer tonight, I've decided to treat my husband! It's been a looooong time since he's had a bowl of salsa and some chips! Now, this may not be the prize winner for the county fair, but it will be a welcome taste, I'm sure.

For the salsa, I started out with a can of diced tomatoes since I don't have a blender available. Next, I added some cumin and some dried cilantro that I brought in our suitcase. I diced up some fresh garlic as best as I could. The peppers will have to be peperoncini from Italy. I have yet to see some good hot peppers, let alone ... jalapenos. These peppers will give it enough kick, but they'll also add a little different taste. A little salt... sale (pronounced solay) and we're done.

Did you notice the tortilla chips? Yes, we can get them here. They cost me about $2 each for a 6 oz. bag.

Did I mention this was a treat?

I am thoroughly looking forward to dinner tonight ... mostly because I just love to see those smiles on the dear people I love!

Update :  We were able to figure out where the F*tima Conference is located! Praise the Lord! This is the second day that my dear husband has been able to go over to it. Please continue to pray for divine leading. More updates coming on Missions Monday!