More and more we are coming to falsely regard material gains as success and missing out on true values of life. "Whoever does not regard what he has as most ample wealth, is unhappy though he be master of world." - Epicurus (BC)

Money really is quite necessary in our life, but its value should not be worshiped. Being careful not to waste it will give us less to worry about, so "Beware of little expenses; a small leak will sink a great ship." - Ben Franklin (1706-1790)

Roll your fish fillets and place them upright along center of baking pan. Spoon vegetable medley around bundles of fish. Pour your soup mixture over entire casserole. Bake, covered, for about 30 mins. or until fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.

After 30 mins. top fish only with remaining cheese. Bake, uncovered for 3 mins.

This is true company faire that will make your guests feel very special.

ASPARAGUS SALAD -

1-1/2 cups vegetable oil (canola, if possible) 1/2 cup white vinegar (do not use cider)

2 tsp. Dijon mustard

1/2 tsp. salt

1/8 tsp. pepper

1/4 cup chopped green/or red bell pepper or a combination of both

1/4 cup chopped green onions (scallions)

2 lbs. fresh asparagus, cooked and drained

2 tomatoes, sliced

a few slices of red radishes (optional) 1/2 cucumber sliced thinly (optional)

1 tbs. chopped fresh curly parsley

In a small bowl, whisk together oil, vinegar, mustard, salt and pepper. Add bell pepper, parsley, green onions, cucumber, and radishes, if using. Place asparagus spears in a glass bowl. Pour dressing with vegetables over asparagus. Cover and chill overnight. When ready to serve, drain asparagus by using a slotted spoon and arrange them on a plate lined with lettuce leaves. Garnish with tomato slices. Pour by spoon some of dressing over asparagus and tomato slices, including some of vegetables in dressing.

Place remainder of dressing in a small bowl so that guests can add more if they would like to. You have a very nice luncheon salad or a pretty dinner salad.

Either way enjoy taste of asparagus!

©Arleen M. Kaptur

(An excerpt from Rustic Living e-cookbook - Vegetables-Here's to Your Health