I do cook, but rarely have a plan. I love to cook/bake, but usually want to go all out (find the best Ina recipe) and try to remain childless while I prep. This way of cooking is not realistic! So, I have been working on my approach. I still don't menu plan, but vow to try... soon!
However, I do 'dump down' recipes.
On Thanksgiving, I made my good friend (ha!) Tyler Florence's candied yams. Well, on any given day, I combine some simple ingredients and make sweet potatoes LL will actually eat & mash some plan ones for Little L!
Exhibits a, b, and c:
My rendition does not look as fancy as Tyler's, but will next year! YUMMY though, nonetheless!
Quick look in the pantry and no time to let them simmer, but good use of those left over cinnamon sticks!
Little L does not know what she is missing...
Also, I have enlisted a sous chef!
He always lets me know when the flour is "stuck to the side!!"
Here are some long time favorite recipes and new favorites:
- Easiest banana bread EVER! - Food Network
- Ina's Grown Up Mac and Cheese - I prepare this ahead of time in individual crocks and one with simple cheese (cheddar) for LL. When my bub is on his way home, I pop them in the oven & prepare a salad! EZ PZ Oh, see I posted about it already!
- Rachel Ray's Italian Mac-n-Cheese - Perfect for a large crowd, pot luck, or caring ministry dish. I make two for a large gathering. I use ground turkey for a healthy version (sometimes!).
- Orzo Salad from one of my favorite cookbooks - and how excited was I when I googled the recipe and a wonderful blog already had it typed out. Thank you "The Domestication Project", clearly I need to spend some additional time on your blog!
- Ina's Lemon Yogurt Cake - Delicious and so easy. And I love all things Ina!
- Reluctant Entertainer's Cranberry Lemon Pull-Aparts - I have made these so many times, for several different people and boy are they a hit! So good!
so tell me what's an easy way to start this menu planning???
oh, and what's for dinner?
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2 comments:
THanks for sharing. I need some new dinner ideas.
Thanks for your comment + link to my blog! I do have some other great recipes on my blog -- and I don't post anything unless I've made it a few times and really love the results. I'm definitely checking out a few of the recipes in your favorites list.
I've been struggling with menu planning lately too; my goal has been to plan 2-3 meals per week and make sure I fit those in on the nights I feel like really cooking something. Other nights I just stick to things like pasta + (jarred) sauce or paninis or something that doesn't take a lot of planning or effort. I like not being hemmed in to a specific thing for each night!
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