Sweet Corn, Bacon, and Leek Lasagna

This recipe has been taunting me, begging me to make it.  When I went to the Giada de Laurentiis event a few weeks ago, I fell in love with the Sweet Corn and Basil Lasagna at first glance.  Then Giada told the story of how she served the dish to Prince William and the Duchess last summer, I knew I had to try it!

Giada focuses on the combo of sharp provolone, sweet corn, and lots of basil.  But we all know I can't leave well enough alone.  Pinch of chipotle chili powder, bacon (!!!), and sauteed leeks all add punch to this satisfyingly comforting dish fit for royalty!

Smoky Tomato and Eggplant Pasta

Recently, I met Giada de Laurentiis at a book signing for her new book Weeknights with Giada.  She did a Q&A portion before where she talked about her boobs (reluctantly), her philosophy on feeding your kids exactly what you're eating, and how her job is to take what she has learned as a chef and teach the home cook little tips and tricks that we wouldn't have thought of ourselves.  And I love her for that!  The recipe that really drove that point home was her Orzo with Smoky Tomato Vinaigrette, where she added smoky flavor by pan-charring the skins of cherry tomatoes in a dry pan.  Genius!  And something I never would have thought of!

What I did think of was taking the idea of pan-charring the cherry tomatoes and making a hearty vegetarian pasta dish with eggplant and mushrooms to complement the body of the smoky tomatoes.  Lemon adds tang and smoked paprika adds another depth of smoke.  Paired with whole wheat pasta and a spicy shiraz, it's a great weeknight pick-me-up meal!