As Cancer season comes to a close (and a milestone birthday of my own approaches), I dedicate this week’s newsletter to the Cancers, Leos and Virgos who may have complicated feelings about their birthdays. Below are the summer zodiac signs as summery pastas — practical, comforting, a little extravagant and, just like you, worth celebrating. Cancers who crave the familiar may be especially drawn to the way this weeknight-friendly spin on eggplant Parmigiana evokes the traditional version. Much like the sun-ruled fire sign, this pasta from Ali Slagle strikes a balance between showy opulence and confident boldness. The recipe calls for canned crushed or whole tomatoes, but use peeled fresh summer tomatoes if you’re feeling fancy.

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Persons: Virgos, Kay Chun, Leo ♌, Ali Slagle, Leos Organizations: Cancer