The Lost Hat and 2 Quick Spreads

"You remind me of a man looking for his hat and it was on his head the whole time."
"At least I haven't lost my head yet."

Yes, sometimes the thing you are looking for is right there.  This little exchange was between two detectives in a British mystery when the clues to the murder were suddenly obviously realized.

It happens to me, my favorite memory of obvious misplacement was when my four kids were little.  I had gathered them together to leave the house and was locking the door.  Suddenly I exclaimed, "Where's the baby?".  They all looked at me as if I had lost my head because I was the one holding the baby.  He was such a part of me I couldn't see him as I was counting heads, just like having a hat on your head and searching for it until you realize you are wearing it.

Peas and lentils are two obvious ingredients.  When there is not a lot for lunch or a snack, they will suddenly come forward from the pantry and solve my immediate problem of what to eat.  Two quick spreads.

Quick Pea Spread 


2 cups frozen peas, thawed
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 tbs. fresh thyme leaves
1 tbs. chopped fresh mint leaves
1/4 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup fresh goat cheese
1/8-1/4 cup olive oil
salt to taste


In a food processor, puree the peas, lemon juice, herbs and cheese.  With the processor running , add the olive oil in a steady strem until you have a nice spreadable consistency (you might not need a full 1/4 cup).  Add a pinch of salt and taste for seasoning.


You can spread this on gluten free toasts, rice crackers or use it as a dip with corn chips, slices of jicama or carrot and celery sticks.  It also makes a good party plate.


Quick Lentil Spread


1 cup dried orange lentils, cooked in 2 cups water until tender, cooled
2 tbs. lime juice
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1/8 cup olive oil
salt 
2 ounces feta cheese
cilantro leaves, squeeze of lime and a drizzle of olive oil for garnish


In a food processor, puree the lentils, lime juice, cilantro, cumin and olive oil until smooth.  Put the mixture into a serving bowl, crumble in the feta cheese, mix and salt to taste.  Garnish with a few cilantro leaves, a spritz of lime juice and a drizzle of olive oil.


Serve the same way as the pea spread.

And try not to misplace your hat or the baby, best to keep them close to you...


To see the latest collection of Zazu & Violets' hats, please visit our on-line Etsy shop.