Enhance your dining experience by pairing the fresh and flavorful Broccoli-Pasta Side Dish with the thought-provoking novel "The Midnight Library" by Matt Haig, and a refreshing glass of Lemon Mint Sparkler. The light, garlicky pasta dish complements the novel’s themes of choice and regret, while the sparkling beverage offers a crisp contrast. Together, these elements provide a delightful sensory experience both at the table and within the pages of this engaging read.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh lemon juice (optional, for a bright finish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot to blanch them. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
- Prepare the Garlic Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and just starting to turn golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Toss the Pasta and Broccoli: Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet, tossing to coat them evenly in the garlic oil. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Finish and Serve: If using, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and broccoli, tossing again to combine. For a brighter flavor, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the dish before serving.
The Midnight Library
"The Midnight Library" by Matt Haig explores the poignant and reflective theme of choices. The protagonist finds herself in a mysterious library containing books that represent alternative lives she could have lived. As she reads different books, she experiences the consequences of her decisions, gaining new perspectives on her life and choices. This uniquely captivating novel encourages us to appreciate the present and understand that life’s imperfections can lead to growth and self-discovery.
Between life and death there is a library. When Nora Seed finds herself in the Midnight Library, she has a chance to make things right. Up until now, her life has been full of misery and regret. She feels she has let everyone down, including herself. But things are about to change. The books in the Midnight Library enable Nora to live as if she had done things differently. With the help of an old friend, she can now undo every one of her regrets as she tries to work out her perfect life. But things aren’t always what she imagined they’d be, and soon her choices place the library and herself in extreme danger. Before time runs out, she must answer the ultimate question: what is the best way to live?
Discussion Questions
- What do you think the main message of 'The Midnight Library' is, and how did it resonate with you?
- How does Matt Haig use the concept of the library to explore the idea of choice and regret?
- Which alternate life depicted in the novel stood out to you the most, and why?
- How does Nora’s journey through the library change her perception of what it means to live a fulfilling life?
- In what ways does the novel challenge our typical understanding of success and happiness?
- Discuss the portrayal of mental health in the book. How does the author handle this sensitive topic?
- Which character in the novel did you find most compelling, and what did they add to the story?
- How does the concept of infinite possibilities affect Nora’s decision-making throughout the novel?
- What role does the character of Mrs. Elm play in Nora's journey?
- How did 'The Midnight Library' make you reflect on your own life choices?
Authors:
Matt Haig
ISBN: 0525559477
Publisher: HarperCollins
Published Date: 2020-09-29
Lemon Mint Sparkler
A refreshing and light sparkling beverage that combines the zing of fresh lemon juice with the cooling taste of mint, perfect for enjoying alongside a meal or while delving into a captivating book.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon simple syrup
- 2-3 fresh mint leaves
- 4 ounces club soda
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slice and mint sprig for garnish
Instructions
- In a glass, muddle the mint leaves gently with the lemon juice and simple syrup to release the mint’s flavor.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes, then pour in the club soda.
- Stir gently to combine. Garnish with a lemon slice and a sprig of mint before serving.