"The Paradise Problem" by Christina Lauren pairs beautifully with the Crispy Artichoke White Bean Salad and a refreshing Lemon Basil Fizz. Both the salad and the book offer a delightful escape into a world of vibrant flavors and intriguing narratives. While the salad provides a satisfying crunch and zest reminiscent of summer afternoons, "The Paradise Problem" offers a captivating storyline that keeps you turning the pages. The Lemon Basil Fizz complements both, with its citrusy sparkle providing an ideal contrast to the salad's richness, mirroring the book's light-hearted yet tumultuous romance.
Ingredients
Crispy Artichokes:
- 1 can (14 oz) of artichoke hearts, drained and patted dry
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Salad:
- 1 can (15 oz) of white beans (such as cannellini or navy beans), drained and rinsed
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, or romaine)
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
Lemon Vinaigrette:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Crispy Artichokes:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the drained artichoke hearts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy, turning once halfway through.
Make the Lemon Vinaigrette:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Assemble the Salad:
- In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, white beans, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.
- Drizzle the salad with the lemon vinaigrette and toss to coat evenly.
- Top the salad with crispy artichokes and shaved Parmesan cheese.
Serve:
- Serve immediately as a main dish or a side, and enjoy the refreshing flavors and textures.
The Paradise Problem
A romantic adventure that takes the characters to a tropical paradise filled with mystery, love, and hilarity.
Due to an antiquated clause in his grandfather's will, Liam won't see a penny until he's been happily married for five years. Just when Liam thinks he's in the home stretch, pressure mounts from his family to see this mysterious spouse, and he has no choice but to turn to the one person he's afraid to introduce to his one-percenter parents–his unpolished, not-so-ex-wife
Discussion Questions
- What themes of personal growth and discovery are explored in "The Paradise Problem"?
- How do the settings in the book contribute to the overall mood of the story?
- Discuss the dynamic between the main characters. How do their interactions drive the plot?
- What role does humor play in the development of the story's themes?
- How does Christina Lauren use romance to address deeper societal issues in the book?
- In what ways does "The Paradise Problem" challenge traditional romantic clichés?
- Discuss how the characters balance love and career aspirations.
- What do the side characters add to the main storyline, and how do they enhance your understanding of the protagonists?
- How is the theme of paradise used metaphorically throughout the novel?
- In what ways does the ending of "The Paradise Problem" satisfy or disappoint readers' expectations?
Authors:
Christina Lauren
ISBN: 978-0-123456-78-9
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Published Date: 2024-05-14
ISBN: 978-0-123456-78-9
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Published Date: 2024-05-14
Lemon Basil Fizz
A refreshing drink combining the zesty flavor of lemon with aromatic basil, topped with bubbly club soda.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon simple syrup
- 4 fresh basil leaves
- Club soda
- Ice
Instructions
- In a shaker, muddle the basil leaves with lemon juice and simple syrup.
- Add ice and shake well.
- Strain into a glass filled with ice and top with club soda.
- Garnish with a lemon slice and a basil leaf.