Main Dishes

Spinach Artichoke Lasagna Roll Ups, Negroni, and Songs in Ursa Major

April 21, 2025
editor
This delightful cuisine and literary pairing brings together the rich comfort of Spinach Artichoke Lasagna Roll Ups, the complexity of Emma Brodie's novel 'Songs in Ursa Major', and the effervescent charm of a classic Italian Negroni. The hearty, cheesy rolls perfectly accompany a novel filled with music, love, and the 1970s nostalgia, enhanced by the bittersweet and invigorating notes of a Negroni. Together, they provide a harmonious evening of delicious flavors, engrossing storytelling, and sophisticated refreshment.
Spinach Artichoke Lasagna Roll Ups

Ingredients

  • 12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for topping)
  • 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, chopped artichokes, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  • Assemble the Roll Ups: Lay out the cooked lasagna noodles on a flat surface. Spread the spinach-artichoke mixture evenly over each noodle. Roll up the noodles tightly and place them seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
  • Top with Sauce and Cheese: Pour the marinara sauce over the roll ups and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  • Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Serve: Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot.

Songs in Ursa Major

Songs in Ursa Major

Emma Brodie's 'Songs in Ursa Major' is a captivating novel set in the 1970s music scene. It follows Jane Quinn, a spirited young musician navigating fame, love, and the power dynamics of the industry. The story is inspired by the real-life relationship between musicians Joni Mitchell and James Taylor, and delves deep into themes of creativity, identity, and the tension between personal growth and professional success.
A scintillating debut from a major new voice in fiction, Songs in Ursa Major is a love story set in 1969, alive with music, sex, and the trappings of fame. Raised on an island off Massachusetts by a mother who wrote songs for famous musicians, Jane Quinn is singing in her own band before she's old enough to even read music. When folk legend Jesse Reid hears about Jane's performance at the island's music festival, a star is born–and so is a passionate love affair: they become inseparable when her band joins his on tour. Wary of being cast as his girlfriend–and haunted by her mother's shattered ambitions– Jane shields her relationship from the public eye, but Jesse's star power pulls her into his orbit of fame. Caught up in the thrill of the road and the profound and lustful connection she has with Jesse, Jane is blind-sided by the discovery she makes about the dark secret beneath his music. Heartbroken and blackballed by the industry, Jane is now truly on her own: to make the music she loves, and to make peace with her family Shot through with the lyrics, the icons, the lore, the adrenaline of the early 70s music scene, Songs in Ursa Major pulses with romantic longing and asks the question so many female artists must face: What are we willing to sacrifice for our dreams?

Discussion Questions

  • How does 'Songs in Ursa Major' portray the music industry of the 1970s? Do you think the portrayal is accurate and why?
  • In what ways does Jane Quinn as a character challenge traditional gender roles of her time?
  • Discuss the themes of artistic integrity and commercial success in the novel.
  • How does the relationship between Jane and Jesse reflect the creative process and personal sacrifice?
  • In what ways do Jane’s experiences parallel those of female musicians today?
  • How do the settings of the novel contribute to the overall narrative?
  • What role does family play in Jane's journey and decisions?
  • How does Emma Brodie use music as a form of expression in the novel?
  • Reflect on the ending of the novel. Do you think it was a fitting conclusion to Jane's story?
  • Discuss the impact of fame on personal relationships as explored in the book.
Authors: Emma Brodie
ISBN: 0593237242
Publisher: Vintage
Published Date: 2021-06-22

Negroni

Negroni
The Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail known for its bittersweet taste and vibrant red color. It is composed of equal parts gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari, and is traditionally garnished with an orange peel. The Negroni is perfect for sipping slowly, and pairs beautifully with rich Italian dishes.

Ingredients

  • 1 oz gin
  • 1 oz Campari
  • 1 oz sweet vermouth
  • Orange peel, for garnish

Instructions

  • Fill a mixing glass with ice cubes.
  • Add the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
  • Stir gently until well chilled.
  • Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
  • Garnish with an orange peel.