What to Cook for Dinner this Week
Friends, it’s been one of those weeks. I fought the flu (it won). I went to New York, barely hanging on by a thread. Then, we turned around and headed for Michigan. All that to say that this is the first day in a week that I’ve really felt like myself. And to be honest, I sort of feel like I lost a week. But now, I’m sitting in a window with the sun shining in, thankful for its warmth and for the fact that subzero temperatures seem to have finally left the Midwest behind. It’s good to be sitting here with the computer keys beneath my fingertips, writing to you. The flu is no fun, and I missed this place.
I have an easy meal plan for you this week, and I realize it’s arriving just barely in time for Monday. If you aren’t sure how you’re going to make it through a week of dinners, sit back and relax. This one’s for you.
Monday: Roast Chicken with Vegetables. To prep ahead, dress and truss the chicken the night before and place in the refrigerator. Peel the vegetables. All you’ll have to do to get dinner going is preheat the oven and put everything in the pan.
Tuesday: Chicken Quesadillas. If you have leftover chicken from Monday night, you can use it up in these yummy and easy quesadillas. If not, a couple of poached and shredded chicken breasts will do.
Wednesday: Pizza Night. This crust. This sauce. To make it even more fun, divide the dough into individual balls, provide a slew of easy toppings (pepperoni, sliced olives, chopped veggies) and let everyone make his or her own pie.
Thursday: Vegetable Soup. This comforting classic is perfect with some of this crusty bread. Start your bread the night before, and you’ll be amazed how easy it is.
Friday: Takeout Night. My weekly habit, because everyone needs a night off from the kitchen.
Saturday: Turkey Burgers, Spicy Sweet Potato Fries, and Tangy Apple Slaw. Always a crowd-pleasing combination.
Sunday: Not Your Mama’s Shepherd’s Pie. It’s anything but boring. Serve with a green salad and a glass of wine for the grown-ups.
Weekend Breakfast: Baked Oatmeal. I’m using bananas and walnuts this week, but any fruit will do.
Have a fabulous week, friends. I hope the sun shines for you!
