everything is so light compared to what i’m used to and it’s a nice change. there’s lots of mushrooms, basil, and garlic chunks. i like garlic, but i would’ve preferred the garlic to have been diced into smaller pieces, and i wish the crust was just a bit firmer instead of being so floppy. but overall, i enjoyed it. the pizza gets a b.
trader giotto’s spinach ricotta ravioli
i had these sizable ravioli with some bertolli’s pesto and they were quite good. the ravioli’s were very fresh tasting and cheesy. the spinach is mixed in with the ricotta so it doesn’t really stand out, but instead it almost shows up as an aftertaste. this gets a B+
trader giotto’s pizza margherita
it’s got fresh mozzarella and basil. the cheese oozes over everything and is really mild and light. the tomato sauce is also very light. everything is light and not too heavy and it’s just darn good! you cut up the fresh basil and put it on the pizza after it comes out of the oven, which really makes the pizza smell good. this gets an A!
smithfield beef burgundy
this is actually the first time i’ve ever had beef burgundy…but i’m guessing it should be much better than this. the beef is tender, but without much flavor. the sauce is…tangy…i can taste the burgundy, but it’s not very good. and don’t get me started on the crappy soggy pasta (and yes, i followed the instructions to the minute). this gets a d-
albertson’s beef pot pie
it’s not nearly as good as swanson’s beef pot pie, with its slightly artificial tasting carrots and peas, but it’s not too bad. the beef could be less sinewy, and the crust could be better, but it’s alright. it gets a c-.
ben & jerry’s americone dream
what can i say about my buddies ben & jerry? another winner here. the base vanilla ice cream is mildly sweet and very creamy. the waffle cone pieces are a delight and the caramel swirl is a bonus. this gets an A.
hungry man country fried beef patties
i like salt more than most people, but egads! it’s like country-fried salt with salt gravy. the mashed potatoes are typical hungry man (not that great). green beans are a bit soggy. the brownie is good as usual. this meal gets a d+
sea-fresh crunchy breaded fishsticks
the breading is surprisingly light and you can taste more of the fish. unfortunately, the fish is minced, and you can only get so far with minced fish. pretty decent overall. it gets a b-.
marie callender’s swedish meatballs
i’m not sure what *real* swedish meatballs should taste like so i can’t really comment on the authenticity. these are good. the sauce is creamy and not overwhelming, and the meatballs are tender. the pasta is decent. this gets a b.
trader joe’s garlic naan
yum! i love garlic naan! trader joe’s version is thicker and fluffier than the naan (naans?) i’ve had before, but it’s very good and very garlicky. all the other naan i’ve had in the past has been thinner and more hollow, but i could see this one being used for a good “wrap.” it gets an A.