Country Brown Rice Dressing

Makes 8 servings

2 c. water

1 c. long-cooking brown rice, uncooked

1/4 lb. ground pork or turkey sausage

3 c. sliced mushrooms

1 c. onion, chopped

3/4 c. carrot, peeled and shredded

1/2 c. sweetened dried cranberries

1/4 c. fresh parsley, chopped

2 T. fresh basil, chopped

salt and pepper to taste

Bring water to a boil in a saucepan. Stir in rice; cover and simmer over low heat for 20 to 25 minutes, or until tender. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook sausage, mushrooms and onion until sausage is browned and vegetables are tender. Drain; stir in carrot, cranberries and herbs. Stir cooked rice into sausage mixture; add salt and pepper to taste. Cook and stir until heated through.

Even a simple family supper can be memorable when it’s thoughtfully served. Use the good china, set out cloth napkins and a vase of fresh flowers...after all, who’s more special than your family?