Welcome to the Meadows Connection
MESSAGE FROM JOYCE TILDEN, BSM BOARD MEMBER AND COMMUNICATION LIAISON
Wishing everyone a very warm and loving February and welcome to another issue of the Meadows Connection newsletter. Burnt Store Meadows Property Owners Association, in collaboration with our publisher, Seabreeze Communications, has a dedicated website for the Meadows Connection monthly newsletter.
FEATURES OF THE MEADOWS CONNECTION WEBSITE
The new website offers a redesigned version of the newsletter, access to individual articles, an event board, and additional resources. Readers can enjoy a digital flip book experience with a refreshed magazine layout that allows you to turn pages, click on embedded links, and use features such as zooming in or switching to full screen mode. For those who prefer an article-based format, the website provides all current content organized on individual pages for easy reading.
NAVIGATION AND RESOURCES
The top menu bar includes convenient access to previous issues, a collection of articles, an Event Board highlighting activities and happenings in and around Burnt Store Meadows, and a Vendor Page featuring local service providers. You may visit the new website to view or download the digital edition, or you can find a PDF version available on our BSM website under Meadows Connection Newsletter | Burnt Store Meadows.
YOUR PARTICIPATION
We hope you enjoy exploring this newly developed website. We encourage you to share your suggestions for articles or topics you would like to see featured in future editions of The Meadows Connection.
Burnt Store Meadows Property Owners Association Website
JOYCE TILDEN, BSMPOA DIRECTOR COMMUNICATIONS AND WEBSITE ADMINISTRATOR
Keeping you informed and up to date on what’s happening in the Meadows.
The www.bsmpoa.com website makes it quick and easy to access and electronically complete forms required for new construction, additions, and modifications to your existing residence. Also, requests for overnight parking permits can be completed online.
As a resident and/or property owner in the Burnt Store Meadows Community, you will have access to “Owner Only” documents and information. In order to access those documents and sections on the website you must register and be authorized as a property owner.
Registration is simple!
The first time you log in to www. bsmpoa.com simply select the Register option in the upper right corner of the screen.
On the Register page you will be asked to enter the following information:
• Are you a Homeowner, Condo Owner, Lot Owner, etc.
• Name, email, cell phone*, address, and create a password for your account.
* If you don’t have a cell phone, or prefer to use another number, you can change this on your Member Profile once your account is approved.
Once you have entered the appropriate information and select Register at the bottom of the page it takes you to the next page. There you are asked to complete your personal
Member Settings. This is where you may select your personal preferences on communications, e.g., receiving emails or text messages from the association for items such as the Newsletter. Member Settings is where you can update and change your password and specify your privacy.
We hope you enjoy the website. Please feel free to forward comments or suggestions to the Star Management or the webmaster via the Contact Page on the website.
BURNT STORE MEADOWS PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION BOARD OF
DIRECTORS
President – Anthony Nutt
Secretary – Adele Higgins
Treasurer – Joyce Tilden
Director at Large – Jay Gile
The Board of Directors meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the conference room at Star Hospitality Office located at 26530 Mallard Way, Punta Gorda.
(941) 575-6764
The February meeting will be held on February 16, 2026
Residents are welcome to join the meeting in person or via Zoom. The Zoom link is listed on the website for registered members - Zoom Link to Monthly Board Mtg | Burnt Store Meadows
sales@seabreezecommunications.com
www.seabreezecommunications.com
Communications,
does not endorse any advertising as it relates to the communities. Advertising is not screened by Seabreeze Communications, Inc.
All rights reserved. Reproduction or utilization of these contents in any form by any electronic, mechanical, or other means, including xerography and photocopying is forbidden without the written permission of the Publisher. The Publisher is not responsible or liable for misinformation or misprints herein contained and reserves the right to accept or reject all copy deemed unsuitable for publication.
February Holidays & Observances
February 2026 is filled with a variety of holidays and observances, including well-known celebrations like Valentine’s Day and important commemorations such as Black History Month.
KEY HOLIDAYS AND OBSERVANCES
Groundhog Day - February 2: A tradition where a groundhog’s behavior is said to predict the weather for the coming weeks.
Valentine’s Day - February 14: A day dedicated to love and affection, celebrated with gifts, cards, and romantic gestures.
Presidents’ Day - February 21: A federal holiday honoring all U.S. presidents, particularly George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.
Black History Month: The entire month of February is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the contributions of African Americans throughout history.
Chinese New Year - February 10: Celebrated by many, marking the beginning of the lunar new year, with festivities and cultural events.
Mardi Gras - February 13: A festive season celebrated with parades, parties, and various cultural events, leading up to Ash Wednesday.
NOTABLE DAILY OBSERVANCES
National Freedom Day - February 1
Super Bowl Sunday - February 9
National Pizza Day - February 9
National Send a Card to a Friend DayFebruary 7
National Ice Cream for Breakfast DayFebruary 1 (first Saturday of the month)
National Love Your Pet Day - February 20
National Pancake Day - February 25
MONTHLY OBSERVANCES
American Heart Month: A time to raise awareness about heart health and promote healthy living.
National Cancer Prevention Month: Focuses on educating the public about cancer prevention strategies.
Vegan Cuisine Month: Encourages exploring plant-based diets and recipes.
February 2026 is a month rich with celebrations and observances, providing numerous opportunities to engage in various cultural and social activities. Be sure to mark your calendar for these important dates.
February Personality: Unveiling the Unique Traits
People born in February are often seen as unique, innovative, and compassionate individuals. Their personality traits can be attributed to the influence of their zodiac signs, Aquarius and Pisces, as well as the peculiarities that come with being born in the second month of the year. In this article, we will delve into the various aspects of their personalities, including positive and negative traits, and highlight some famous individuals who share a February birth month.
Those born in February exhibit a wide range of personality traits that make them stand out from the crowd. Here are some of the most common characteristics:
Independent: February-born individuals value their autonomy and strive for self-reliance. They are not easily swayed by others’ opinions and prefer to forge their own path in life.
Intuitive: People born in this month are gifted with heightened intuition and can often perceive things that others may not be aware of.
Original thinkers : February-born people are known for their innovative and unconventional thinking. They are not afraid to challenge the status quo and push the boundaries of what is possible.
Compassionate: Individuals born in February are empathetic and caring, often putting the needs of others before their own.
Romantic: February-born individuals are passionate and romantic, making them great partners in relationships.
Socially conscious: People born in February are often concerned with social issues and strive to make a positive impact on their communities.
FEBRUARY ZODIAC SIGNS
There are two zodiac signs associated with people born in February: Aquarius (January 20 – February 18) and Pisces (February 19 – March 20).
Aquarius: Those born under the Aquarius sign are known for their intellect, curiosity, and humanitarian nature. They are often seen as
visionaries who are eager to make the world a better place. Aquarians are typically extroverted and sociable, making friends easily and enjoying a wide variety of interests.
Pisces : Pisces individuals are characterized by their empathetic, compassionate, and sensitive nature. They are highly intuitive and often possess a deep connection to the spiritual and emotional realms. Pisces people are also creative and artistic, with many turning to music, dance, or other forms of expression as an outlet for their emotions.
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POSITIVE TRAITS
People born in February possess a variety of admirable qualities that make them unique and endearing. Some of these positive traits include:
Creativity: February-born individuals are known for their creative thinking and innovative critical thinking skills.
Loyalty: Those born in February value trust and loyalty, making them dependable friends and partners.
Adaptability: People born in this month can easily adapt to different situations and thrive in change.
Perseverance : February-born people are determined and persistent, willing to work hard to achieve their goals.
Empathy : Individuals born in February are highly empathetic and can easily understand the feelings and emotions of others.
Visionary : People born in this month have a unique ability to envision a brighter future, making them natural leaders and changemakers.
NEGATIVE TRAITS
Despite the many positive aspects of February-born individuals, there are also some negative traits that they may need to work on:
Stubbornness: People born in February can be very stubborn, often refusing to change their opinions even when presented with evidence to the contrary.
Overthinking: February-born individuals tend to overthink situations, which can lead to stress and indecision.
Sensitivity: Those born in this month can be highly sensitive, sometimes taking criticism or negative comments to heart.
Aloofness: February-born people may come across as aloof or detached, making it difficult for others to connect with them on a deeper level.
Mood swings : Individuals born in February may experience mood swings, which can make them appear unpredictable or emotionally unstable at times.
Procrastination: People born in this month may struggle with procrastination, putting off tasks until the last minute and causing unnecessary stress.
FAMOUS PEOPLE BORN IN FEBRUARY
Numerous successful and influential individuals were born in February. Their achievements span various fields such as entertainment, politics, sports, and more. Here are some notable figures who share a February birth month:
Abraham Lincoln (February 12, 1809) – The 16th President of the United States, Lincoln is best known for his leadership during the American Civil War and his role in the abolition of slavery.
Rosa Parks (February 4, 1913) – Known as the “Mother of the Civil Rights Movement,” Rosa Parks played a pivotal role in the fight against racial segregation in the United States.
George Washington (February 22, 1732) – The first President of the United States, Washington was a key figure in the establishment of the nation and its government.
Elizabeth Taylor (February 27, 1932) – A legendary actress and humanitarian, Taylor is remembered for her beauty, talent, and philanthropic work, particularly her efforts to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS.
Michael Jordan (February 17, 1963) – Widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, Jordan’s achievements include six NBA championships, five MVP awards, and two Olympic gold medals.
Ed Sheeran (February 17, 1991) – An award-winning singer-songwriter, Sheeran has gained worldwide acclaim for his heartfelt lyrics, captivating melodies, and unique blend of pop, folk, and hip-hop.
CONCLUSION
People born in February possess a unique blend of characteristics that make them intriguing and multifaceted individuals. Their zodiac signs, Aquarius and Pisces, contribute to their innovative thinking, compassionate nature, and strong intuition. February-born individuals are known for their creativity, loyalty, and adaptability, as well as their sensitivity, stubbornness, and tendency to procrastinate. Regardless of their challenges, many successful and influential people share a February birth month, demonstrating the potential for greatness in those born during this time.
Our Very Own Neighborhood Little Free Library
What’s that miniature building next to the BSM Bulletin Board on Royal Poinciana? Nope, not a birdhouse or a suggestion box -- it’s our new “Little Free Library!”
A Little Free Library is a free book exchange sponsored by the BSMPOA. You can borrow or leave books anytime, making it easy to share and enjoy reading with others.
The new Little Free Library is located on the Royal Poinciana greenbelt between S. Plum Tree and S. Blue Sage next to our community bulletin board.
Many thanks to Niles Higgins for installing our Little Free Library!
BSMPOA board member Adele Higgins is the library steward. Please contact her with any questions. You can also contact her to arrange a pickup of books for the library. Her email is Adele.Higgins.BSMPOA@gmail.com.
For more information about Little Free Libraries, see the website at www.littlefreelibrary.org.
What’s Happening in Punta Gorda this Month
ONGOING - PUNTA GORDA FARMER’S MARKETS
WEEKLY WEDNESDAY MARKET
PUNTA GORDA ISLES CIVIC ASSOCIATION
2001 Shreve St., Punta Gorda, FL 33950
Indoor / Outdoor Market - Open to the Public 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Plants ~ Fresh food Items ~ Arts and Crafts ~ Businesses and Services ~ Used and/or Thrift Items ~ Nonprofit Organizations ~ Food Trucks ~ And More
SATURDAY DOWNTOWN PUNTA GORDA FARMER’S MARKET
Your local Farmer’s Market with produce, seafood, meat, ethnic cuisine, arts, crafts, live music, working artists and much more.
Featuring over 70 vendors. Located in beautiful downtown Punta Gorda. Every Saturday, rain or shine (unless it falls on Christmas Day, an active Hurricane Warning day or other unforeseen event).
May to September – 8 a.m. – 12 noon October to April – 8 a.m. -1 p.m.
227 Taylor St, Punta Gorda, FL 33950
HISTORY PARK SUNDAY MARKET
Visit Punta Gorda’s only weekly Artisans Market, held every Sunday in the History Park. You will discover local artists selling their creations, as well as our resident artists in the History Park Artisan Village, where the Peace River Woodturners, SWFL Fiber Arts Guild, SWFL Potters Guild, and SWFL Glass Fusers Foundation each work out of one of our historic buildings. Their buildings are open to the public during market hours on Sunday.
In addition to the artisans, the Sunday market vendors include local providers of farm-fresh produce and eggs, local honey, home-baked artisan breads, goat cheese, and other goodies. Check out the wonderful vendors! History Park Sunday Market Sundays 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
INDOOR and OUTDOOR
8 a.m. -1 p.m. {6:30 a.m. set-up)
~Plants ~ Fresh food Items ~ Arts and Crafts ~ Businesses and Services ~ ~ Used and/or Thrift Items~ Nonprofit Organizations~ Food Trucks~ And More ~
VENDORS: Why compete with every weekend event during "season?" There are countless indoor arts and craft events, outdoor arts and craft events, church bazaars, farmers markets, school festivals, boat shows, car shows, home and garden shows, yard sales, parades, RV shows, football games, airshows, fairs, carnivals, flea markets, yada, yada, yada, yada ... all on the weekends. So, say it with us,
February in Your South Florida Yard and
WHAT TO PLANT
Annuals/Perennials/Wildflowers: Good performers in south Florida’s mild winter include impatiens, verbena, coleus, and dianthus. See
Annuals: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ topics/annuals
Perennials: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ topics/perennials
Florida Wildflower Foundation: https://www.flawildflowers.org/
Groundcovers: Consider replacing areas of grass with drought-tolerant, low-maintenance groundcovers. See
The Florida-Friendly Landscaping™
Guide to Plant Selection and Landscape Design: https://ffl.ifas.ufl. edu/media/fflifasufledu/docs/FFLPlant-Guide_v030624_web.pdf
Groundcovers: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ topics/ground_covers
Vegetables: Winter vegetable gardening is in full swing. Last month to plant cantaloupes, cucumbers, eggplant, lettuce, peppers, spinach, and tomatoes for a late spring harvest. Protect crops in the unlikely event of frost or freeze. See
Vegetable Gardening in Florida: https://edis. ifas.ufl.edu/topics/vegetable_gardening
Eggplant
FIGURE 2. EGGPLANT.
CREDIT: TYLER JONES, UF/IFAS
WHAT TO DO
Lawns: If local ordinances allow, fertilize lawn grasses to improve color or coverage. Choose a fertilizer (not a “weed and feed”) with 0% or very little phosphorus unless a soil test indicates the need for it. A fertilizer with controlled-release nitrogen provides longerlasting results. See
Lawn & Garden Care: Fertilization: https://edis. ifas.ufl.edu/topics/lawn-garden-fertilization
Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program
Fertilizer Ordinances App: https://ffl.ifas.ufl. edu/resources/apps/fertilizer-ordinances/
Shrubs and palms: Fertilize shrubs and palms by spreading fertilizer evenly over the soil surface and watering it in. Follow with a fresh layer of mulch to conserve moisture and reduce weeds.
Garden
Delay pruning any cold-damaged branches until new growth starts. See
Palm Care: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ topics/palm-care
Pests: Begin a regular scouting routine to detect warm-season landscape pests like whiteflies, lubber grasshoppers, and Tuttle mealybugs on Zoysia lawns. This allows for early intervention and the use of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques. See
UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions: Integrated Pest Management (IPM): https://gardeningsolutions.ifas. ufl.edu/care/pests-and-diseases/ pests/management/integrated-pestmanagement/
Eastern Lubber Grasshopper: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ IN132
Avocados and mangoes: Diseasesusceptible varieties of avocado and mango may require applications of copper fungicide. See
Avocado: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ topics/avocado
Citrus: Fertilize now if not done in January. The frequency and amount of fertilization depend on the age of the tree. See
Home Citrus Culture: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ topics/home_citrus_culture
Trees: Don’t wait until hurricane season to check your trees.
Hire an ISA-certified arborist to do an inspection. See International Society of Arboriculture: https:// www.isa-arbor.com/For-the-Public
Mango: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ topics/mango
Lawn and Garden Care: Pruning: https://edis.ifas. ufl.edu/topics/lawn-and-garden-care-pruning
Best Places to See Flamingos in Southwest Florida in 2026
Flamingos were once native to Florida but disappeared in the early 1900s due to hunting and habitat loss. Despite their absence, Florida has remained associated with these iconic pink birds.
SPOTTED AT MADEIRA BEACH, FL
The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory - 1316 Duval St., Key West, FL 33040
VISITORS CAN SEE KEY WEST’S FAMOUS DUO, RHETT AND SCARLETT. UP TO SIX GUESTS MAY JOIN AN AFTER-HOURS “FLAMINGLE” WITH THEM FOR $50 PER PERSON; SPOTS FILL QUICKLY, SO RESERVE EARLY.
THESE TWO PINK FLAMINGOS ARE VISIBLE DURING ROUTINE VISITS TO THE MINI SANCTUARY, BUT ONLY OFFICIAL FLAMINGLE EVENTS ALLOW CLOSE ENCOUNTERS.
Not in the Florida Keys? You can watch Rhett and Scarlett live anytime on their 24/7 webcam or catch them often on the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory Facebook page.
Flamingo Gardens in Davie - 3750 S. Flamingo Road, Davie, FL 33330
Flamingo Gardens in Davie is a top spot to see flamingos and one of South Florida’s oldest attractions, dating back to 1927. It houses more than 3,000 plant species and the largest collection of native Florida wildlife. This sanctuary
houses injured and non-releasable animals, including American flamingos like James, whose birthday is celebrated on August 1.
Sarasota Jungle Gardens
- 3701 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, FL 34234
For a great flamingo encounter in Sarasota, visit Sarasota Jungle Gardens, home to over 200 native and exotic animals, including flamingos you can hand-feed. Open daily since 1939, the park recommends spending at least two hours to see all its attractions. Flamingos freely roam this vintage roadside attraction, often approaching guests directly. You can hand-feed them or watch as they walk past.
Everglades Wonder Gardens in Bonita Springs - 27180 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Everglades Wonder Gardens in Bonita Springs features a botanical garden and
rescued birds and reptiles. Operating since 1936, the gardens let visitors watch Amigo the Flamingo and other flamingos at the lagoon.
Gatorland in Orlando
- 14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32837
You can see Florida flamingos at Gatorland in Kissimmee, a major tourist spot that has been open since 1949. Although alligators are a common sighting, so are migratory birds. Buy food from the gumball machines to feed the pink wading birds. You’ll also spot ducks, geese, egrets, white ibis, and roseate spoonbills—often confused with flamingos.
Discovery Cove in Orlando
- 6000 Discovery Cove Way, Orlando, FL 32821
If you haven’t visited Discovery Cove, an all-inclusive resort in Orlando, add it to your bucket list. While its pricey, discounts are available for Florida residents and military members. The upgraded “flamingle” experience lets you feed flamingos up close on Flamingo Beach. A Discovery Cove
photographer is available to document your visit, and experts will answer questions and share facts about the animals. Space is limited—book your morning flamingle early. Prices start at $199 per person; Florida resident discounts are available.
PHOTO CREDIT: DISCOVERY COVE ORLANDO
Sunken Gardens in St. Pete - 1825 4th St. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33704
Sunken Gardens in St. Pete is one of Florida’s best roadside attractions. Within this historic botanical garden, a flock of flamingos has called Sunken Gardens home since 1957.
Busch Gardens in Tampa - 10165 N. McKinley Drive, Tampa 33612
If you take a break from the rides and beer, check out Flamingo Island at Busch Gardens, where flamingos
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have lived since 1959. You’ll see dozens of vibrant flamingos in the grass and water.
Sea World in Orlando
- 7007 Sea World Drive, Orlando, FL 32821
Sea World Orlando’s Flamingo Cove features almost 100 flamingos. Visitors can also see manatee rehabilitation, a dolphin nursery, stingray lagoon, penguin, and shark displays, plus roller coasters and a Sesame Street area.
Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park - 4150 S. Suncoast Blvd., Homosassa, FL 34446
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park in Florida is known for Lu the Hippo, the oldest captive hippo. The park hosts animals like flamingos, eagles, alligators, black bears, red wolves, Key deer, and whooping cranes. Allow a few hours for your visit—most of these animals, including Lu, cannot live independently in the wild.
Zoo Miami - 12400 S.W. 152nd St., Miami, FL 33177
SOURCE: ZOO MIAMI
Zoo Miami features diverse wildlife and is a top South Florida spot for animal enthusiasts. Even better, they have over 40 American Flamingos waiting to greet you. These flamingos can be standing in their iconic one-legged pose. Zoo Miami gives flamingos special clay for nest building, so a mound you see might contain a nest.
SOURCE: ZOO MIAMI
Tampa International Airport - 4100 George J. Bean Parkway, Tampa, FL 33607
IF YOU’RE AT TAMPA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, BE SURE TO SEE PHOEBE, THE 21-FOOT FLAMINGO SCULPTURE IN THE MAIN TERMINAL.
WILD FLAMINGO SIGHTINGS THROUGHOUT FLORIDA
Hurricane Idalia’s path through Florida led to an unusual sight: a group of flamingos migrating from Mexico and Cuba. Experts think the storm altered their route, allowing Floridians to spot wild flamingos in several areas.
HERE ARE SOME OF THE OTHER SPOTS THROUGHOUT FLORIDA THAT HAVE HAD WILD FLAMINGO SIGHTINGS SINCE SEPTEMBER 2023:
Anna Maria Island
Charlotte Harbor – Port Charlotte
Clearwater
Cudjoe Key – Lower Florida Keys
Estero Bay Preserve State Park
Fort DeSoto – St. Pete Beach
Gainesville
Grassy Key – Middle Florida Keys
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge/ Haulover Canal
Navy Point Park – Pensacola
Palm Coast
Pine Island
Punta Gorda
San Carlos Bay – Bunche Beach Preserve –
Fort Myers
Siesta Key
Tarpon Springs
The Everglades
The Sanibel Causeway
Tigertail Beach – Marco Island
Treasure Island Beach
continued >
We hope the flamingos remain in Florida, as many people are eager to spot them across the state.
FUN FACTS ABOUT FLAMINGOS
Recipes of the Month
BUFFALO PIGS IN A BLANKET
Buffalo wings meet pigs in a blanket in this irresistible appetizer perfect for game day snacking.
Active Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Servings: 14
Yield: 28 pigs in a blanket
INGREDIENTS
1 (8-ounce) can refrigerated crescent rolls
3 tablespoons buffalo-style wing sauce, divided, plus more for garnish (such as Frank’s Red Hot)
1 (12-ounce) package cocktail-size smoked sausages
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Chopped fresh celery leaves, for garnish Fresh celery, for serving Blue Cheese Dressing, for serving
DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 375°F. Line large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
Unroll crescent rolls on a cutting board and separate along perforated lines into 8 triangles. Brush dough with 2 tablespoons of the wing sauce, cut into about 28 skinny triangles (it will depend on number of smoked sausages in package).
Working one at a time, place 1 smoked sausage on top of the wide base of 1 skinny dough triangle. Roll sausage toward pointed end of triangle, allowing dough to overlap and wrap around sausage. Place in even layer, point-side down, on prepared baking sheet. Repeat with remaining smoked sausages and dough triangles.
Stir together melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and remaining 1 tablespoon wing sauce in a small bowl until combined. Brush wrapped smoked sausages with butter mixture.
Bake in preheated oven until dough is puffed and golden brown, 15 to 20 minutes. Drizzle with additional wing sauce and garnish with celery leaves; serve immediately with celery and Blue Cheese Dressing.
Recipes of the Month
LASAGNA ROLLS
Recipe courtesy of Giada De Laurentiis
Level: Intermediate
Total: 1 hr 25 min
Prep: 25 min
Inactive: 10 min
Cook: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
INGREDIENTS
Sauce:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 teaspoons all-purpose flour
1 1/4 cups whole milk
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
Pinch ground nutmeg
Lasagna:
1 (15-ounce) container whole milk ricotta cheese
1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed, squeezed dry
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
3 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto, chopped
1 large egg, beaten to blend
3/4 teaspoon salt, plus more for salting water
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil
12 uncooked lasagna noodles
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella (about 4 ounces)
DIRECTIONS
To make the sauce: Melt the butter in a heavy medium saucepan over mediumlow heat. Add the flour and whisk for 3 minutes. Whisk in the milk. Increase the heat to medium-high. Whisk the sauce until it comes to a simmer and is thick and smooth, about 3 minutes. Whisk the salt, pepper, and nutmeg into the bechamel sauce.
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F.
Whisk the ricotta, spinach, 1 cup Parmesan, prosciutto, egg, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl to blend. Add a tablespoon or 2 of oil to a large pot of boiling salted water. Boil the noodles until just tender but still firm to bite. Drain. Arrange the noodles in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent them from sticking.
Butter a 13-by-9-by-2-inch glass baking dish. Pour the bechamel sauce over the bottom of the prepared dish. Lay out 4 lasagna noodles on a work surface, then spread a large spoonful (about 3 tablespoons worth) of ricotta mixture evenly over each noodle. Starting at 1 end, roll each noodle like a jelly roll. Lay the lasagna rolls seam side down, without touching, atop the bechamel sauce in the dish. Repeat with the remaining noodles and ricotta mixture. Spoon 1 cup of marinara sauce over the lasagna rolls. Sprinkle the mozzarella and remaining 2 tablespoons of Parmesan over the lasagna rolls. Cover tightly with foil. Bake until heated through and the sauce bubbles, about 20 minutes. Uncover and bake until the cheese on top becomes golden, about 15 minutes longer. Let stand for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, heat the remaining marinara sauce in a heavy small saucepan over medium heat until hot, and serve alongside.
Writers Wanted!!!
To make the Meadows Connection interesting and readable to our residents, we invite you to share your stories, experiences, and perspectives. We welcome articles about books, travel, pets, sports, TV and movies, Tech, and/or content that will get our community talking and sharing. Just avoid topics such as politics and religion in keeping with our policy to avoid controversy.
Please limit your words to between 200 to 600 words and feel free to include a couple of jpeg photos with high resolution. We’ll be happy to give you a byline!
Have fun writing and send to joyce.tilden.bsmpoa@gmail.com for submission in the Meadows Connection.
Being a Good Pet Owner and Neighbor!
REMINDER
Being a good neighbor and animal owner means picking up after your dog. Also, while our deed restrictions do not specifically state your animal must be leashed, it does state the animal must always be under the owner’s control. Not having the animal leashed could constitute a nuisance and that is a violation of our deed restrictions.
Tell us about your pet(s)! We would like to feature one family’s pet(s) in an article in the Connection. All you need to do is write between 200 – 600 words about your much-loved dog, cat, or other animal and include a couple of high resolution pictures. Some ideas to show off your beloved pet include – how you named him/her; a description of his/her looks; favorite activities and toys; what makes him/her special to you, or whatever else you’d like to share with readers. This is limited to Burnt Store Meadows owners and residents.
Your submission doesn’t have to be a literary masterpiece; we will edit and format it for the monthly newsletter. Have fun writing about your pet and send to joyce.tilden.bsmpoa@gmail.com for submission in the Meadows Connection.