What to Cook for Dinner this Week
The weather has turned the corner this week here in Virginia, moving from warm to cold in a flash. We woke up Monday morning to thick frost and the kind of chill that goes right through you. I’m bummed, because I was enjoying the long string of sunny, 50-degree days.
This week’s menu is filled with warm dinners that will take the edge off the chill. I know my friends in the Midwest have been feeling it for a while now, and I’ve been thinking of you all this week. I know most of you have already seen snow. I’m grateful for the long fall we’ve had here in Virginia – so different from what I’m used to. As I’m typing this, I can hear geese honking overhead. They’re heading farther south. It’s a sure sign the cold is here to stay. So let’s get cozy this week, friends.
Monday: PW’s Beef and Bean Burritos. These are one of E’s favorite meals. He likes them slathered in enchilada sauce.
Tuesday: Stroganoff. This is a classic Eastern European dish my mom made throughout my growing-up years. It’s hearty and warming, the unique sour cream gravy bringing an extra pop to the meat and noodles. I often make it with venison steak. Serve with a green salad for a balanced meal.
Wednesday: Pizza Night. This crust. This sauce. This week, I’m topping it with caramelized onion and bacon. One of my favorites!
Thursday: Gyros. These are as close as you can get to the real thing, and they’re incredibly simple and fast. Trader Joe’s Mediterranean flatbread is a perfect accompaniment if you can’t get real, fresh pita bread (not the pocket kind).
Friday: Takeout Night. If you’re new to my weekly dinner menus, I should tell you that we get takeout every Friday night – it gives me a break from cooking and allows for a more leisurely, relaxed end to the week. This is what you’ll see on my menu every Friday.
Saturday: Fall Vegetable Soup and No-knead Bread. You’ll be warmed through. The perfect way to end a busy Saturday, especially if you’ve been outside. Any leftover soup will freeze well, too.
Sunday: Julia Child’s Roast Chicken and Butternut Squash Risotto. This is the ultimate Sunday Dinner. Serve with a green salad and for the adults, your favorite chilled semi-dry white wine.
Weekend Breakfast: Dried Cherry and Pecan Whole Wheat Pancakes. One word: yum! Serve with real maple syrup if you can.
Weekly Treat: Oatmeal Crispies. Perfect for tucking into your pockets as you set off for a weekend hike or just some playtime outside in the brisk air.
Have a lovely week, friends!
