Election Day Reflections: What’s for Dinner?
Today marks Election Day in the United States, and as I navigate through the hustle and bustle, I can’t help but ask everyone I meet about their plans for this evening as the results begin to unfold. The responses have been wonderfully varied. Some folks are opting to go out—perhaps to a favorite restaurant, catching a show, or engaging in other social activities, seeking a welcome distraction from the news. Others are choosing to gather with friends, preparing hearty meals such as chili, hot pot, or other communal dishes that foster a sense of togetherness. Then there are those like me, who prefer the comfort of home, ready to embark on a culinary adventure with a complex recipe, accompanied by a nice glass of red wine, or perhaps indulging in some baking.
The beauty of cooking lies in its ability to engage both the mind and the hands, offering a delightful escape.
From the very start, I envisioned something rich and cheesy—most likely a baked pasta dish. Stuffed shells or lasagna danced through my mind, but ultimately, I settled on a delectable baked Alfredo pasta adorned with vibrant pops of green and a crunchy panko topping. However, I’m also keeping the option open for a pan of shortbread, chewy brown butter cookies, or brownies to accompany the main dish as the evening unfolds.
I’m also preparing:
- Baked wild salmon
- Dumpling noodle soup
- Mattar paneer (a must-have, of course)
- Sautéed baby bok choy
- Manhattans to sip on
Credit for the main dish goes to Ali Slagle, who has crafted a Baked Alfredo Pasta With Broccoli Rabe and Lemon. This dish is creamy and indulgent, yet it carries a delightful bitterness and brightness, giving it a unique edge in the realm of comfort food. The slight bitterness from the broccoli rabe is a fantastic contrast, but feel free to substitute it with regular broccoli if that suits your taste better. This is what I’ll be savoring for dinner tonight.
What are your culinary plans for the evening? I would love to hear all about it! Reach out to me at dearemily@nytimes.com.
