The Engagements by J. Courtney Sullivan was extremely "engaging" (sorry, I couldn't resist). Sullivan introduces you to 4 different couples that are very different from each other in temperament, social class, time of life and time period.  We learn about their lives, relationships and histories...and end up wanting more.  A 5th story follow Frances Gerety, who spent her career working on ad copy for diamonds. I am dying to read Sullivan's other 2 books: Maine and Commencement.

Many of you have seen this on Pinterest.  I had to try it, and it did come out pretty good!  I liked that it was easy, pretty healthy, and THE WHOLE FAMILY ate it!  So that counts as a good recipe in my book!  It's definitely worth a try!

I got it from the blog Apron Strings, who credits adapting it from Martha Stewart.

ONE POT WONDER TOMATO BASIL PASTA

Serves 4 to 6 as an entree

12 ounces linguine pasta
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes with liquid ( I used fresh)
1 large sweet onion, cut in julienne strips
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 teaspoons dried oregano leaves
2 large sprigs basil, chopped
4 1/2 cups vegetable broth (I used chicken)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Parmesan cheese for garnish

Place pasta, tomatoes, onion, garlic, basil, in a large stock pot. Pour in vegetable broth. Sprinkle on top the pepper flakes and oregano. Drizzle top with oil.

Cover pot and bring to a boil. Reduce to a low simmer and keep covered and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes or so. Cook until almost all liquid has evaporated – I left about an inch of liquid in the bottom of the pot – but you can reduce as desired .

Season to taste with salt and pepper , stirring pasta several times to distribute the liquid in the bottom of the pot. Serve garnished with parmesan cheese.