What's For Dinner: Spiced Olives, Rigatoni And Tiramisu

Not feeling inspired by your usual dishes? Here's what's for dinner.

Are you feeling particularly well-balanced this week? If so, maybe that's because we're right in the middle of nine days straight where the date is a palindrome. This means it reads the same forward as it does backward (5/15/15), which means essentially nothing, but makes writing the date that much more fun. Palindromes are all about playing with words (and numbers), so have some fun with your food tonight as well. When in doubt, taco cat.

① Snack: Spiced Olive Mix

"Evil Olive?" No, these spiced olives are rather pleasant. They're flavored with citrus zest and a handful of toasted spices for a mix that beats anything store bought. And you don't have to marinate them for the full time—they make a great snack while you wait for the pasta water to boil.

② Main Course: Rigatoni with Spicy Salami and Tomato

Not all palindromes are created equal, but "go hang a salami, I'm a lasagna hog" is a classic. While it's a bit too hot out for a lasagna, we're never mad at a bowl of pasta, especially when it's dotted with spicy charcuterie bites and tossed in San Marzano tomato sauce.

③ Dessert: Classic Tiramisu

Turn "dessert, stressed" into "dessert, de-stressed" with this hands-off treat. Let the refrigerator do the work for you while you entertain your friends with your new party trick: palindrome knowledge. You're welcome.