1/2 thinly sliced fennel bulb
2 sprigs minced fennel leaves (about 3 loose tbsp.)
1/2 cup black eyed peas, cooked, chilled
1/2 cup grape tomatoes, halved
1 green onion diced
kale, shredded and stemmed
1/2 lemon
1-2 tsp. olive oil
salt and pepper
Juice lemon. Combine ingredients and toss well. Even better if allowed to chill for 30 minutes plus.
I’ve been working with the lowly (but protein-rich and low-fat) red bean. You know, the red bean of “red beans and rice” fame. Out of the can they’re fine, but a little on the bland side. I came up with some decent ideas, but tonight’s seems to be right on track. Very easy to prepare and in no way dull. Works as a vegetarian main, or an intriguing side.
1 can 16 oz Red Beans (the basic no sauce no fat low calorie treat)
3 Large Jalapeños, 1/4″ diced
3 Green onions, diced
1 teaspoon Tarragon
Juice of one large lemon
Juice of one small lime
1/2 cup chopped cilantro
1 heaping teaspoon minced garlic
A few dashes ground ginger
1/2 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Salt & Pepper to taste
After your prep work, it couldn’t be any simpler. Add to a small pot and simmer over medium heat until your jalapeños are slightly under-done. I like the faint crunch.
Here’s a list of my casual camping items, subject to revision:
~$275
~$120, not including provisions
~$300, not including random clothes
~$170
~$65, not including perishables or consumables
~$220
Revised 4/30/08! – Added Camp Stove, Backpack Axe, Rainproof Jacket, Cast Iron Skillet. Moved a few items around a bit.
I’ve found a camping addage to be very true. Research your gear, and save for what you want. But the cool thing is that I’ll be able to have a few essential duplicates for camping with a friend.
I gave up on the sketchy camp pillow. Instead I pack a lightweight pillowcase. I stuff that with a compressible dry sack filled with clothes that I have stored inside my pack. Same level of comfort and a quite a bit more efficient.
I also have some gear that’s not really on my short list, like a camp shower. Other items like the machete, just aren’t needed and won’t make most trips. The axe can’t be used on many campgrounds, in which case I may bring the machete more for the utility than any serious chopping.
