I’ve long wanted to talk about how I easily make canned beans a more delicious and easier part of weekday meals, but I usually talk myself out of it: It’s so simple, you know? But oftentimes simple reminders are necessary. Black beans become smoky; garbanzos become crispy—life is better. I’ll tell you about the how and why in this Monthly Menu, as well as how this restaurant salad from La Santurcina saved us from frustration during a week without running water.

First things first, the dining out. My sister and I are obsessed with European Republic. When I lived in Huntington Village, I’d eat their wraps and fries at least once per week. They’ve changed ownership, but I found the quality was still there. These are simple wraps, no-frills, and extremely good frites.

I can’t be on Long Island without multiple trips to Southdown Coffee, and I tried their Caprese panini this time because everyone else always raves about it—excellent. The apple cider doughnut was, texturally, more of a bun, and also excellent.