Pairing a meatless zucchini lasagna with "Under the Whispering Door" by T.J. Klune and a refreshing Citrus Fizz creates a delightful combination of taste and contemplation. The book's whimsical yet profound narrative about life and beyond perfectly complements the light and fresh flavors of the dish, encouraging thoughtful reflection. The Citrus Fizz, with its bubbly, citrus notes, adds a refreshing touch, enhancing both the lightness of the lasagna and the enchanting escapism of the story. Together, this trio offers an uplifting and rejuvenating experience, making it an ideal choice for a cozy evening dedicated to introspection and delightful flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise into thin strips
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the zucchini: Lay the zucchini slices on paper towels, sprinkle them with a little salt, and let them sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat the zucchini dry with more paper towels.
- Make the ricotta mixture: In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the lasagna: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Add a layer of zucchini slices, followed by a layer of the ricotta mixture, then a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers until you run out of ingredients, finishing with a layer of marinara and a final sprinkle of mozzarella.
- Bake the lasagna: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil.
Under the Whispering Door
A magical story about a man named Wallace who is given seven days to live after he dies. During this time, he learns about life, love, and second chances.
A NEW YORK TIMES, USA TODAY, AND INDIE BESTSELLER One of Buzzfeed's "Best Books of 2022"! An Indie Next Pick! A Locus Awards Top Ten Finalist for Fantasy Novel A Man Called Ove meets The Good Place in Under the Whispering Door, a delightful queer love story from TJ Klune, author of the New York Times and USA Today bestseller The House in the Cerulean Sea. Welcome to Charon's Crossing. The tea is hot, the scones are fresh, and the dead are just passing through. When a reaper comes to collect Wallace from his own funeral, Wallace begins to suspect he might be dead. And when Hugo, the owner of a peculiar tea shop, promises to help him cross over, Wallace decides he’s definitely dead. But even in death he’s not ready to abandon the life he barely lived, so when Wallace is given one week to cross over, he sets about living a lifetime in seven days. Hilarious, haunting, and kind, Under the Whispering Door is an uplifting story about a life spent at the office and a death spent building a home. At the Publisher's request, this title is being sold without Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) applied.
Discussion Questions
- How does Wallace's transformation throughout the book inspire you?
- Which character do you resonate with the most and why?
- Discuss the theme of life and death portrayed in the book.
- How does the setting of the tea shop enhance the story's ambiance?
- What role does humor play in the narrative?
- How do the various characters’ relationships evolve throughout the story?
- What message do you think the author wanted to convey through Wallace's journey?
- In what ways does the story encourage you to reflect on your own life?
- How does the book challenge your perspective on death and the afterlife?
- Discuss the importance of forgiveness as depicted in the book.
Authors:
TJ Klune
ISBN: 9781643759239
Publisher: Tor Books
Published Date: 2021-09-21
ISBN: 9781643759239
Publisher: Tor Books
Published Date: 2021-09-21
Citrus Fizz
A light and refreshing mixture of citrus juices and sparkling water, providing the perfect rejuvenating complement to the lasagna and book pairing.
Ingredients
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lime
- Juice of 1 orange
- 1 tablespoon simple syrup
- 1 cup sparkling water
- Ice
- Lemon and lime slices for garnish
Instructions
- In a shaker, combine lemon, lime, and orange juice with simple syrup and ice.
- Shake well.
- Strain into a glass filled with ice.
- Top with sparkling water and stir gently.
- Garnish with lemon and lime slices.