“To be prepared in the company of others, particularly those who are gregarious by nature.

Pistou: With a mortar and pestle crush several aromatic cloves of garlic.  Add a handful of freshly picked flowering basil.  Let the guest crush the ingredients until a paste forms.  Add olive oil, mix and set aside.

Potage: Purchase ingredients from the most outspoken farmer in the market.  Sauté two aromatic garlic cloves in the very best olive oil.  Add two leeks (cleaned and chopped), two earthy potatoes (peeled and diced) and two handfuls of fresh white beans.  Stir.  Add chicken stock or water to cover.  Bring to a boil.  Cover and simmer.  Turn on the radio, tune into a lively conversation and leave the room.  About 20 minutes later, add salt and pepper and the pistou.  Turn off radio and serve with a crusty loaf and a good wine.

Caution: Will cause excessive chatter.”

2-3 T. Pesto

2 T. Vegetable Oil
2 Leeks, thinly Sliced
2 Cloves Garlic, minced
2  Medium sized Potatoes, peeled & diced
A handful of White Beans or 1 can of Navy Beans with the liquid
2 C of any Broth ( Beef, Vegetable, Chicken) I use Vegetarian Chicken

Saute Leeks and Garlic in Oil, until soft.  Add Potatoes, Beans and Broth.  Bring to a boil.  Add Sea Salt and Fresh Ground Pepper to taste. Reduce heat and simmer covered for 30 minutes.  Remove from heat and add the Pesto.