Now that everything (well, almost everything) is packed, I have to get lots more minimalist with dinner. I was thinking what I could cook for tonight without buying any more groceries, and particularly without buying any perishable items. I thought about the half-bag of frozen green beans still in the freezer, and then I thought about how bread requires flour, yeast, water, and salt. And then I thought about how easy it is to go next door to Trader Joe's and buy cheese.

Welcome to tonight's dinner of provolone, pseudo-baguette, green beans, and a balsamic vinegar and oil dressing with basil and pepper in it for dipping. Enjoy your stay.