Each week I search cookbooks, magazines, and the internet and plan out 5 main meals. These meals have been tested and adaptations and tips are provided when needed. I'm here to help make Bringing Back Dinner to your home go a little more smoothly.
Pasta with Fresh Basil and Cherry Tomatoes - Stanley Tucci
Vegan
Serves: 4-6
Time: 22 Minutes
Easy
If you're in search of a yummy quick and easy meal, then look no further - this recipe is just what you need!
Tips:
This recipe is great with fresh basil, but it's ok to use frozen basil or even pesto.
Feel like you need a little bit more? Add some sausage or grilled veggies.
Tofu Steak with Miso Mushrooms- The Blue Zones, Dan Butner
Vegan
Serves: 2
Time: 20 minutes
Easy
For newcomers, tofu might seem strange or even intimidating at first! However, tofu's versatility shines as it absorbs the flavors of sauces and spices, resulting in a dish that's uniquely delicious. Personally, I find tofu most enjoyable when it's perfectly crisp.
Tips:
Instead of pan-frying the tofu try crisping in the air fryer or oven (My Fav option)
Misco can be found in many groceries and is sometimes located with the vegan foods, or in the produce section if not in the International sections.
If you don't have Mirin on hand try using sugar or fruit juice in its place
Because this recipe is especially healthy you may find you need to add a little salt
Country Captain Chicken - Food Network (Household Searchlight)
Serves: 4
Time: 1. 5 hours Prep + Cook Time
Moderate
Many of us in the South had this dish growing up. The original recipe I follow comes from my grandmother's copy of the 'Household Searchlight Recipe Book,' initially published in 1931 and reprinted multiple times until 1954, amassing over a million copies in sales! Here is a similar recipe.
This recipe has curry which is such a comforting spice. You can find mild curry blends, so don't worry about the heat.
Tips:
Garam Masala is a wonderful spice blend but can be hard to find. Try using a blend of allspice and cumin if you can't find it. 4 parts cumin to 1 part allspice.
The Food Network recipe calls for bacon, but the original did not, it's up to you.
The recipe link calls for white rice, but this dish is great with other rices. I like Basmati.
You may omit the chilis or try a pinch of red pepper flakes instead.
Spanish Rice and Scallops - Frozen Section of Trader Joes
Seafood
Serves: 4
Time: 10 minutes - 1 hour
Easy
Sometimes we are in a hurry and just need a quick meal that feels like we worked hard. A cheat meal! Here are 2 options:
Options 1: Trader Joe's has some great frozen foods, one of which is Spanish Rice. Microwave it 4 minutes and it's done!
Cooking the Scallops:
Start with fresh scallops or fully thawed frozen ones, patted dry to ensure a perfect sear.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a touch of olive oil and butter for that golden crust.
Season scallops with salt and pepper, then gently place them in the hot skillet.
Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful caramelized exterior.
Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a burst of flavor.
Serve immediately and enjoy the taste of perfection!
Top the Spanish rice with the scallops and enjoy!
Option 2: Get a little fancy.
Begin by sautéing one small diced onion, one small bell pepper, and 2 cloves of minced garlic until the onion turns translucent. Add one small can of diced tomatoes, a pinch of red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon of thyme, and 1/2 cup of white wine or broth to the skillet, bringing the mixture to a boil. Let it simmer until reduced by half. Next, fold in the cooked Trader Joe's Spanish Rice and add an additional 1/2 cup of broth, mix well. Press the mixture firmly into the pan with a spoon or spatula, allowing it to rest undisturbed until the bottom develops a slight golden-brown crust. Finally, top the dish with perfectly cooked scallops before serving.
Tip: If you aren't a seafood fan, serve with Kielbasa sausage or chicken.
Chickpea Cakes - The Complete Mediterranean, America's Test Kitchen
Vegetarian
Serves: 4
Time: 40 minutes
Easy
The Complete Mediterranean Cookbook by America's Test Kitchen stands out as a favorite for those aspiring to embrace the Mediterranean diet. Renowned for its approachable recipes, this book not only simplifies the cooking process but also provides insightful explanations behind each dish's success, making it one of my favorites as well.
Tips:
Serve this with a nice rice pilaf or couscous
Pita, hummus, and Tatziki are nice compliments as well
Do you have a food blog or website? I'll be glad to try your recipes and consider adding them to the Weekly Menu. Email me at lwburburbach@icloud.com
Do you want to take vitamins and supplements, but you are feeling overwhelmed by everything that is out on the market? You can narrow it down by taking this free Meology assessment. This is based on your needs and your family history and even your DNA if you choose to enter it.
A personalized supplement plan based on your unique nutrition needs and health goals.