Lora Knows...

1) Texas
Texas saw a significant influx of over 12,700 new residents in 2021. The state’s environment, low taxes, thriving economy, affordable cost of living, and pleasant weather make it an attractive destination for many.

2) Florida
With its appealing combination of low taxes, affordable housing, abundant sunshine, Florida has experienced a surge in population. The state’s sandy beaches and tropical weather have always been a draw for retirees, but now it’s also attracting a younger crowd with job opportunities that allow for greater mobility.

3) South Carolina
Like Florida, South Carolina saw a rise in its population, driven by people seeking green spaces and a family-friendly environment. The pandemic encouraged migration due to remote work opportunities, enabling families to live closer together, while a strong job market keeps existing residents in the state.

4) North Carolina
North Carolina’s recent population growth can be attributed to factors like job opportunities, family connections, and its appealing weather. The state’s diverse topography appeals to outdoor enthusiasts, and families now have greater freedom to choose where they want to live.

5) Georgia
Georgia offers an abundance of outdoor activities, pleasant year-round weather, coastal attractions, and affordable housing costs that have made it a popular destination for families and job seekers.

6) Tennessee
With tourism as a major industry, Tennessee attracted families seeking a vacation-like lifestyle. The state’s low cost of living, favorable tax rates, expanding job market, and natural beauty make it an ideal location for both retirees and young families.

7) Nevada
Nevada’s population grew as people from the Pacific Northwest and humid southern states sought its appealing weather and proximity to adventure-filled neighboring states. The state’s allure to retirees, coupled with its lower cost of living, also attracted younger movers.

8) Maine
Many people leaving expensive New England states have been relocating to Maine due to its relatively lower cost of living. The state witnessed an influx of families recently, as it offers all the benefits of New England living without the crowds and high expenses.

9) Delaware
Similar to Maine, Delaware has become a popular destination due to its low taxes, affordable housing, strong job market, and proximity to financially influential neighboring states. The state’s population has grown over the last year.

10) Idaho
Idaho’s appeal lies in its low cost of living and proximity to the West Coast without the high real-estate prices. Booming job markets in agriculture and medicine have contributed to the state’s growth.

Cooking

Crunchy Sheet Pan Lasagna

July 18, 2023August 16, 2023 Lora Knows...

I have been a fan of Giada for years, and I have made dozens of her recipes. When I came across this recipe I knew it would be amazing. If you think the best part of lasagna is the crunchy bit on top, then this is a recipe for you.

The first time I make a recipe I follow it completely, this version is what I’ve done over time to make it more to our liking.

16 ounces lasagna noodles broken into 3 pieces
1 pound Italian sausage
2 large shallots diced
2 cloves garlic minced
32 ounces Rao’s Tomato Basil sauce
1 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Salt to taste
1 cups ricotta cheese
5 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and drained
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup pasta water
Olive Oil

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add salt to taste like the sea. Add the broken lasagna noodles and cook for 8 minutes. They will finish cooking in the oven.

In a small bowl mix together the ricotta, drained spinach and salt to taste. Set aside.

While the pasta is cooking, use a large skillet and add a tablespoon of good olive oil. Heat over medium heat and crumble the sausage as you add it to the pan. Let it cook for 3 minutes without stirring so it can get a layer of flavor. Add the shallots and garlic and stir well, breaking up the sausage into smaller pieces, then let it cook another 5 minutes or until the sausage is done. Turn off the heat and add the entire jar of Rao’s (my favorite brand) sauce and the Italian seasoning. Stir well.

Set aside 1/2 cup of the pasta water and then strain the pasta and put back into the pot it cooked in. Pour the sauce mixture over the noodles, add a handful of parmesan and mozzarella cheese, add the 1/2 cup of pasta water and mix well.

Take a 12 x 17 sheet pan and lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray, or grease it with a thin layer of olive oil. Pour the entire mixture onto the sheet pan and spread evenly. Dollop the ricotta mixture onto the top in 6 to 9 places, then sprinkle the rest of the parmesan and mozzarella on top.

Place sheet pan in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and let stand for 10 minutes.

You can store your leftovers, if there are any, in a lidded container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. You can also freeze individual portions in the freezer up to 3 months.

NOTE: For the sausage you can use turkey, chicken or pork – mild, sweet, hot or a mix.