More October 2009 Real Simple Recipes

I've been enjoying the "A Month of Easy Dinners" issue of Real Simple (October 2009). I hope to try all of them, but some of them may have to wait until next Fall. This week, however, I managed to make the "Ravioli with Apples and Walnuts" and "Meatballs with Sautéed chard".

RAVIOLI WITH APPLES AND WALNUTS
Modifications: I added some andouille chicken sausage we had in the fridge.
Rating: 3.5/5 stars
Notes: very good in concept and I liked the apples with the spicy sausage. I did find the dish to be too dry, however, and think I will toss it all in some truffle oil next time. Nice balance of flavors.

MEATBALLS WITH SAUTÉED CHARD
Modifications: none (served with whole-wheat couscous instead of suggested baguette)
Rating: 4/5 stars
Notes: really loved these meatballs--would make easy appetizers for a party, too. The combination of pine nuts, currants, cinnamon and pork gave them a Mediterranean taste and the moisture from the chard kept them from being too dry. Could be whipped up ahead of time and then broiled prior to serving.

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Winter Farmers Market: Sautéed Scallops and Herbed Rice

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THE LADY OF SHALLOTS

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