Elevated Pumpkin Patch

Last year, I set up a garden tank Garden Tank Set Up. The project turned out well, and in addition to the vegetables grown, I had to have some pumpkins for the Fall.

The tank, being about 2 1/2 feet off the ground, does not lend itself well to the pumpkin vine growth, nor the weight of the pumpkin. Pumpkins really need to be on the ground, to have their weight supported.

So, I used an old trellis, turned it on its side, added some legs, and… the “Elevated Pumpkin Patch” was born!

As the pumpkin grew, I added some mesh on top of the trellis for additional support.

I only got one pumpkin last year. This year, anticipating more pumpkins, I ‘beefed’ up the trellis legs and added bracing.

So get those pumpkins planted, and get ready for Fall!

Lazy ‘Veggie’ Lasagna

I really “love” Italian food! I mean what’s not to love: pasta, spicy sauce, cheese, veggies, and meats all cooked together in a sea of Mediterranean delight!

Mamma Mia or my mother, boy could she cook. I think she had tomato sauce running through her veins! Me, not so much, but at least I try. She did give me a few recipes, one of which was called One Step Lasagna. I like to call it Lazy ‘Veggie’ Lasagna, because you do not have to precook the noodles, and it is really easy to make.

Just walking into an Italian deli is a treat for me.

Here’s the recipe – written out ‘old school’ style:

This isn’t really cooking, but more assembly than anything else. Below are a few pics to show the assembly process.

Of course, you begin with the sauce.

Yep, just spread the ricotta cheese right on the noodles, and set on top of the sauce.

Begin to add the toppings. Don’t be afraid to use leftovers. I’ve added some yellow squash from last night’s dinner.

Now, add more sauce, another layer of noodles. and more toppings.

Cover with foil, and bake in the oven. When done, remove and let it sit for 10 minutes prior to serving.

Semplicemente Fantastico – Simply Fantastic!