We're down to the final mad rush before Christmas, but we can see the smiles Christmas morning so its' all worth it! Right?! Final push for me to finish wrapping today. Cookies all done, dark chocolate bark made and house fairly in order for company. Now I need to tackle Christmas cards and send them off in the mail. The holiday season is exhausting, but once Christmas morning arrives I am happy.
I am taking a break this week and next from my "Meals at a glance", I am cooking and preparing a few nights this week and the following week is school vacation and New Year's so not a typical meal week for me and probably for many of you. I asked Santa for two new cookbooks, so after the New Year I will be sharing new meal ideas from those. I've been pretty good, so I'm almost positive they'll be under the tree!
I will share what I'm making for Christmas Eve dinner. It is an Italian tradition to prepare seven fishes on Christmas Eve so we are trying to make a few different things with fish. We'll have baked clams ( my dad's recipe), spicy grilled shrimp, & scallops wrapped in bacon for appetizers, along with an assortment of veggies and dips. Baked cod will be for dinner. I want to try a calamari dish as well, but haven't come across the right recipe yet. Side dishes of rice and holiday salad with pomegranates will be served as well. Christmas cookies for dessert! Our family Christmas dinner will be at my mom's and it's over the top! There is enough food to last for days. Holidays for me is all about tradition. I love that my kids cannot wait to decorate our cookies and enjoy preparing our holiday feast. It's a special time to be together and to enjoy one another's company.
I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year. I will begin the New Year with some clean eating ideas and affordable meal plans that will keep you healthy and recharge your bodies for the new year.
All my best,
Donna
Sunday, December 21, 2014
Sunday, December 14, 2014
Meals at a glance...
The countdown continues in our house until Christmas. We are still preparing for the holiday season and will be making our Christmas cookies today. It's a lengthy process, but everyone loves helping. We used to make a variety of different cookies, but the kids' favorite ones are Scott's great Grandmother's recipe for sugar cookies. It's an old-school one that uses shortening, lots of sugar, flour, etc., and we cannot alter the recipe. I've tried but they do not taste the same! Once a year it's ok to indulge making these special treats. So today we make the dough, cut out the cookies and bake them. Then we store them for the week in tightly sealed containers. Next weekend we will frost and decorate, Again, we use the family recipe for the icing and use many different candies, sprinkles, red hots, etc. to decorate. Lots of snacking involved when decorating!
My afternoons after school dismissal are becoming crazier with driving kids back and forth to different activities. Sound familiar to anyone else??!! I'm trying to plan meals with the kids that involve little prep work so we can pop it in the oven and be done. Not always that easy, but I'm trying!
Monday: Vegetable Fritata and good bread in case anyone wants to make a sandwich with the egg
Tuesday: Roasted Chicken and Vegetables
Wednesday: Lasagna and Salad (Discovered that the brown rice noodles make an incredible lasagna--the noodles stay firm and it tastes delicious!)
Thursday: Back by popular demand--Bake Potato and /or Sweet Potato Bar
Friday: Black Bean Chili and Salad
Saturday: Grilled Skirt Steaks, Sauteed Onions & Mushrooms and Salad
Sunday: Homemade Clam Chowder & Salad
I started using broccoli slaw and shaved brussel sprouts in our salads. Also sprinkle a mix of hemp and chia seeds on top. No one has complained yet!
I hope everyone has a stress-free week ahead. Enjoy!
Donna
My afternoons after school dismissal are becoming crazier with driving kids back and forth to different activities. Sound familiar to anyone else??!! I'm trying to plan meals with the kids that involve little prep work so we can pop it in the oven and be done. Not always that easy, but I'm trying!
Monday: Vegetable Fritata and good bread in case anyone wants to make a sandwich with the egg
Tuesday: Roasted Chicken and Vegetables
Wednesday: Lasagna and Salad (Discovered that the brown rice noodles make an incredible lasagna--the noodles stay firm and it tastes delicious!)
Thursday: Back by popular demand--Bake Potato and /or Sweet Potato Bar
Friday: Black Bean Chili and Salad
Saturday: Grilled Skirt Steaks, Sauteed Onions & Mushrooms and Salad
Sunday: Homemade Clam Chowder & Salad
I started using broccoli slaw and shaved brussel sprouts in our salads. Also sprinkle a mix of hemp and chia seeds on top. No one has complained yet!
I hope everyone has a stress-free week ahead. Enjoy!
Donna
Sunday, December 7, 2014
Meals at a glance...
Why is it when you want weeks to go by quickly they feel like forever, and when you want to have more time to get things done they go by in a blink! That's life, right? Never easy. Difficult life lessons learned this week in the Moxham house. A very wise sister of mine reminded me that it's how we handle life's disappoints that really count. The successes are easy, but the difficult lessons shape who we are today. Something for me to remember and to teach my children.
Busy Sunday today. Cutting down our Christmas tree and making homemade Italian sauce (we Italian's call it gravy!) for our neighbor to enjoy. Kids want to make extra for us to have later this week, so one meal down!
I did not have time this week to search new recipes to try, so kids' picks our some repeats from the past. All of the meals are favorites so if you have kids of your own and would like to try a recipe, I think it'll be a hit!
Monday: Three- Ingredient Meatloaf and Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Salad
Tuesday: Grilled Spicy Shrimp over Brown Rice with Mango Salsa
Wednesday: Homemade Gravy and Pasta with Salad
Thursday: Hamburger Bar-grilled grass fed beef burgers with topping bar. Sauteed mushrooms & onions, avocados, tomatoes, pickles, cheese, lettuce, and fried eggs will be served. Roasted potatoes too.
Friday: Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Saturday: Pizza night
Sunday: Fish dinner. Waiting to see what fish is on sale and will buy the day before. I only buy wild fish so I like to see what's fresh and on sale.
Happy week ahead folks. As always, if anything strikes your fancy send me a message and I'll forward you the recipe. Keep the sharing coming as well too.
Best,
Donna
Busy Sunday today. Cutting down our Christmas tree and making homemade Italian sauce (we Italian's call it gravy!) for our neighbor to enjoy. Kids want to make extra for us to have later this week, so one meal down!
I did not have time this week to search new recipes to try, so kids' picks our some repeats from the past. All of the meals are favorites so if you have kids of your own and would like to try a recipe, I think it'll be a hit!
Monday: Three- Ingredient Meatloaf and Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Salad
Tuesday: Grilled Spicy Shrimp over Brown Rice with Mango Salsa
Wednesday: Homemade Gravy and Pasta with Salad
Thursday: Hamburger Bar-grilled grass fed beef burgers with topping bar. Sauteed mushrooms & onions, avocados, tomatoes, pickles, cheese, lettuce, and fried eggs will be served. Roasted potatoes too.
Friday: Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Saturday: Pizza night
Sunday: Fish dinner. Waiting to see what fish is on sale and will buy the day before. I only buy wild fish so I like to see what's fresh and on sale.
Happy week ahead folks. As always, if anything strikes your fancy send me a message and I'll forward you the recipe. Keep the sharing coming as well too.
Best,
Donna
Sunday, November 30, 2014
Meals at a glance...Living Simply
Tomorrow is the first of December. The holiday craze is now upon us. On my drive home last night from Vermont, many cars had Christmas trees attached to their roofs. During my morning run I saw many homes decorated with lights and wreaths. The stores have been ready for weeks with holiday decorations, wrapping paper, candy and calendars. I am not yet in Christmas mode. Still savoring Thanksgiving, but I know soon I will be decorating, shopping, baking, and planning busily just like most of you. Each year I tell myself to scale down and try and live more "simply". This year I really mean business! The kids made their lists. We tried something new this year. Their lists read: "something I want, something I need, something to share, and something to read." I will do my best to stick to their lists and not add all the unnecessary "fluff " and fillers. I would love to incorporate the idea of living simply into many areas of my life. I want to purge the house of things that have not been used in years--clothes, equipment, old furniture, and boxed food items that have too much shelf life. It's a big project, but I think I'm up for it!
Before heading to the market this morning, I reminded myself of simplicity. So this week's meals are basic. Clean and simple meals with real ingredients. We're staring off December on the right foot!
Monday: Caesar Salad with wild salmon rather then chicken. Granddaddy's homemade dressing and croutons will be made.
Tuesday: Roasted chicken with butternut squash, brussel sprouts and parsnips.
Wednesday: Beef stir fry with broccoli, carrots, onions, and brown rice noodles.
Thursday: Shrimp risotto with mushrooms, garlic and scallions.
Friday: Turkey black bean chili with red peppers, carrots and zucchini.
Saturday: Design your own pizza with lots of toppings like grilled chicken, pesto, mushrooms, onions, tomatoes, arugula, etc! Fun to be creative.
Sunday: Linguine with clam sauce.
For the dinners that do not have many veggies in it, I always cut up some vegetables and fruits and have them in a bowl on the center of the table. Some of my kids' favorites are red peppers, snap peas, cauliflower, cucumbers, pink grapefruit wedges and red pear. In my experience with my children, the more exposed they were to fruits and veggies, the more they chose them at the table.
Would love to hear what works for your family. Please keep the sharing coming! Happy December all. Enjoy the holiday season and keep in mind "simple"!
Donna
Before heading to the market this morning, I reminded myself of simplicity. So this week's meals are basic. Clean and simple meals with real ingredients. We're staring off December on the right foot!
Monday: Caesar Salad with wild salmon rather then chicken. Granddaddy's homemade dressing and croutons will be made.
Tuesday: Roasted chicken with butternut squash, brussel sprouts and parsnips.
Wednesday: Beef stir fry with broccoli, carrots, onions, and brown rice noodles.
Thursday: Shrimp risotto with mushrooms, garlic and scallions.
Friday: Turkey black bean chili with red peppers, carrots and zucchini.
Saturday: Design your own pizza with lots of toppings like grilled chicken, pesto, mushrooms, onions, tomatoes, arugula, etc! Fun to be creative.
Sunday: Linguine with clam sauce.
For the dinners that do not have many veggies in it, I always cut up some vegetables and fruits and have them in a bowl on the center of the table. Some of my kids' favorites are red peppers, snap peas, cauliflower, cucumbers, pink grapefruit wedges and red pear. In my experience with my children, the more exposed they were to fruits and veggies, the more they chose them at the table.
Would love to hear what works for your family. Please keep the sharing coming! Happy December all. Enjoy the holiday season and keep in mind "simple"!
Donna
Tuesday, November 25, 2014
True or False
As you may have guessed, the answer is true. Many people throw their fitness routines out the door during the holiday season which makes me so sad and frustrated! It's during these busy and somewhat stressful times that we need exercise the most....peace of mind, energy, a boost to the immune system, & stress reliever.
Thanksgiving is my favorite and I love holiday parties, but indulging in every craving and abandoning your fitness routine will only make facing reality come the New Year much harder! We need to live and enjoy this time of year, so try and remember balance.
Tips for success during the holidays:
Hoping these reminders are helpful, and you can put them into practice.
Yours in health,
Donna
Thanksgiving is my favorite and I love holiday parties, but indulging in every craving and abandoning your fitness routine will only make facing reality come the New Year much harder! We need to live and enjoy this time of year, so try and remember balance.
Tips for success during the holidays:
- make exercise a priority--pencil it in your calendar!
- fill up on the healthy dishes first like the turkey, veggies & salads
- sample the heavier calorie laden dishes
- choose wisely--a sliver of 3 different desserts vs. 3 slices of each
- drink plenty of water
- be mindful
Yours in health,
Donna
Sunday, November 23, 2014
Meals at a glance...
Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. I love being with my family in Vermont and enjoying our time together. No stress over presents--yet--just enjoying good company and good food. My sister in Vermont opened a store that sells olive oils, vinegars, wine, prepared food like homemade pastas and soups, fresh food made daily, and even some of my Mom's pottery! I have yet to see the store since she opened last February so I am excited to visit and perhaps do some Christmas shopping there. Some of my favorite oils have been the Persian lime infused oil and the lemon infused oil. I use them constantly to marinate fish, chicken or beef and as salad dressings. Paired with a good balsamic there is no need to buy bottled salad dressings. My favorite balsamic is the dark cherry and the fig. Anyone want me to pick them up some to try?? Place your orders!
Since we will be having a short week at home, our weekly meal planning was fairly easy this week. The kids all knew what they wanted wish made the grocery shopping very easy.
Monday: Fish Po' Boys--ingredients needed---flounder, corn meal, good bread, your choice of toppings! We're making tartar sauce, lettuce, & tomatoes. Side dish of chick pea salad.
Tuesday: Flank Steak with red smashed potatoes and roasted brussel sprouts and butternut squash
Wednesday: homemade Italian Wedding Soup (Giada's recipe)
Thursday; Happy Thanksgiving!!!!
Friday: If I were home, I'd make turkey noodle soup and panini sandwiches.
Saturday: Pumpkin soup from my freezer to have when we return.
Sunday: Pasta with pesto, potatoes & green beans.
Enjoy this special holiday. Remember to savor all the different flavors and take your time eating. Wait before you go and take seconds, let your body digest!
If you have a favorite recipe you use for a side or main dish over the holidays, please share! Always fun to have something new to bring to the table.
Donna
Since we will be having a short week at home, our weekly meal planning was fairly easy this week. The kids all knew what they wanted wish made the grocery shopping very easy.
Monday: Fish Po' Boys--ingredients needed---flounder, corn meal, good bread, your choice of toppings! We're making tartar sauce, lettuce, & tomatoes. Side dish of chick pea salad.
Tuesday: Flank Steak with red smashed potatoes and roasted brussel sprouts and butternut squash
Wednesday: homemade Italian Wedding Soup (Giada's recipe)
Thursday; Happy Thanksgiving!!!!
Friday: If I were home, I'd make turkey noodle soup and panini sandwiches.
Saturday: Pumpkin soup from my freezer to have when we return.
Sunday: Pasta with pesto, potatoes & green beans.
Enjoy this special holiday. Remember to savor all the different flavors and take your time eating. Wait before you go and take seconds, let your body digest!
If you have a favorite recipe you use for a side or main dish over the holidays, please share! Always fun to have something new to bring to the table.
Donna
Thursday, November 13, 2014
Meals at a glance....
It seems as though winter is here and may be here to stay! It was a tease to be in the Florida keys last weekend, but was so nice to feel the warm sun. Lots of outdoor activities to enjoy which increased my appetite! I ate well with the variety of fresh produce to choose from and the selection of fresh fish. Fish was the main entree at most restaurants, so it was a pleasure to dine out.
It's been back to reality though and vacation is over! I know so many people feel this way, but once all 4 kids are home from school I find myself driving in all different directions! Eating together as a family is challenging, but luckily the kids activities have fallen either before or after dinner time. Sometimes we eat on the late side, but I offer fruit, veggies, cheese and crackers as an early appetizer to hold them over until dinner. Our system of kids choosing their dinner continues to work well. Some have been expanding their taste buds and trying new things which is one of the goals. Next week is parent teacher conferences so half days all week long. More time for the kids to help out in the kitchen!
Our week ahead looks like this....
Monday: Spaghetti Carbonara-a lighter version of this popular dish
Tuesday: Butternut Squash Soup, good dipping bread and a salad with "everything" in it (my daughters favorite to have sunflower seeds, broccoli slaw, crasins, avocado--you name it and it's in there!)
Wednesday: Grilled chicken sandwiches with pesto, tomato and mozzarella cheese on whole grain Chiabatta bread
Thursday: a new regular--Baked Potato Bar which includes eggs over easy, bacon, broccoli, cheeses, scallions, etc.
Friday: Pizza Bar--homemade individual pizzas with lots of toppings! My favorite is arugula.
Saturday: breaking out the crock pot and trying a friend's dish. She has no recipe but claims she throws boneless and skinless chicken thighs into a crockpot. Adds sliced red peppers, white beans, coconut milk, 2 tablespoons peanut butter,and cilantro. She lets it sit and cook then shreds the chicken. I had it once and it was amazing! Hoping I'm not leaving anything out. This will be an experiment and I will give you a review next week! Serving it with brown rice and tortilla chips.
Sunday: Baked quinoa and roasted veggies--a nice alternative to lasagna.
Please let me know if anything is of interest to you and I'll send the recipe along--except for the chicken one--let me get that right first!
Enjoy the week ahead all! As always, please share what you're creating in your kitchen!
Best,
Donna
It's been back to reality though and vacation is over! I know so many people feel this way, but once all 4 kids are home from school I find myself driving in all different directions! Eating together as a family is challenging, but luckily the kids activities have fallen either before or after dinner time. Sometimes we eat on the late side, but I offer fruit, veggies, cheese and crackers as an early appetizer to hold them over until dinner. Our system of kids choosing their dinner continues to work well. Some have been expanding their taste buds and trying new things which is one of the goals. Next week is parent teacher conferences so half days all week long. More time for the kids to help out in the kitchen!
Our week ahead looks like this....
Monday: Spaghetti Carbonara-a lighter version of this popular dish
Tuesday: Butternut Squash Soup, good dipping bread and a salad with "everything" in it (my daughters favorite to have sunflower seeds, broccoli slaw, crasins, avocado--you name it and it's in there!)
Wednesday: Grilled chicken sandwiches with pesto, tomato and mozzarella cheese on whole grain Chiabatta bread
Thursday: a new regular--Baked Potato Bar which includes eggs over easy, bacon, broccoli, cheeses, scallions, etc.
Friday: Pizza Bar--homemade individual pizzas with lots of toppings! My favorite is arugula.
Saturday: breaking out the crock pot and trying a friend's dish. She has no recipe but claims she throws boneless and skinless chicken thighs into a crockpot. Adds sliced red peppers, white beans, coconut milk, 2 tablespoons peanut butter,and cilantro. She lets it sit and cook then shreds the chicken. I had it once and it was amazing! Hoping I'm not leaving anything out. This will be an experiment and I will give you a review next week! Serving it with brown rice and tortilla chips.
Sunday: Baked quinoa and roasted veggies--a nice alternative to lasagna.
Please let me know if anything is of interest to you and I'll send the recipe along--except for the chicken one--let me get that right first!
Enjoy the week ahead all! As always, please share what you're creating in your kitchen!
Best,
Donna
Thursday, November 6, 2014
Shake up your snack time...
This week's "Meals at A Glance" focuses on snacks. We want quick and easy and also healthy choices for ourselves and our family members. Opening a box or bag is definitely fast and simple, but usually not healthy.
I was looking through my pile of magazines trying to see which ones I could recycle. I stumbled across a dated Real Simple Family edition and rediscovered some of these recipes. They take longer than opening a box, but are definitely easy, healthy, and delicious!
Some of my favorite and kid tested....
nut-free no bake energy bars
I was looking through my pile of magazines trying to see which ones I could recycle. I stumbled across a dated Real Simple Family edition and rediscovered some of these recipes. They take longer than opening a box, but are definitely easy, healthy, and delicious!
Some of my favorite and kid tested....
nut-free no bake energy bars
Ingredients
1 1/2
cups
cups pitted dates (about 13 ounces), chopped
2 1/4
cups
old-fashioned rolled oats
1
cup
raw sunflower seeds*
2/3
cup
wheat germ
1
cup
raisins
6
tablespoons
(¾ stick) unsalted butter, melted
1/4
cup
pure maple syrup
1/2
teaspoon
fine salt
Directions
- Heat oven to 350°F. Line a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with parchment.
- Pour ¼ cup boiling water over the dates in a small bowl and let soak until very soft, 10 to 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, toss the oats, sunflower seeds, and wheat germ on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake, tossing once, until golden brown, 12 to 15 minutes. Let cool.
- Stir together the toasted oats, sunflower seeds, and wheat germ with the raisins, butter, maple syrup, and salt in a medium bowl. Add the dates and knead with your hands until everything is sticky and coated.
- Press the mixture into a flat layer in the prepared baking dish. Refrigerate until firm, at least 1 hour. Cut into 24 bars. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
*Check to be sure that the sunflower seeds were processed in a nut-free facility.
Parmesan Pita Crisps
Split one 6-inch whole wheat pita. Brush with 1 T. soft unsalted butter; sprinkle with 3T. grated Parmesan and a pinch of dried oregano. Season with salt. Cut into triangles. Broil until golden, 1-3 minutes. Serve warm
Creamy Yogurt dip with Vegetables
Mix together 2/3c. plain Greek yogurt and 1 T. each olive oil and chopped dill. Season with salt. Serve with fresh vegetables.
Eda-Mommy Dip
Cook 2/3 cup shelled edamame. Puree with 1/2 ripe avocado, 8 basil leaves, 1T. olive oil, 1/2 t. lemon zest, 1 T. lemon juice, and 1/4 c water in a food processor until smooth, about 1 minute. Season with salt. Serve with crostini or cut up vegetables. Can be refrigerated up to 2 days.
Some other easy choices to have in fridge---cheese sticks, Greek yogurts, hard boiled eggs, apples and peanut butter, hummus and veggies.
I hope these are appealing. I think they are worth the extra time to make, and I hope you agree!
Happy snacking...
Donna
Saturday, November 1, 2014
Meals at a glance...
Colder weather has arrived! Although I do not look forward to paying the heating bills, I do enjoy the colder weather. Soup and chili's go perfectly with the cold weather! I am not a big crock pot user, but may have to break it out now and experiment.
My kids love hot chocolate in the morning during the winter. I am picky about what I use since so many of the brands have added chemicals and preservatives. I have tried to make it in a pot with just unsweetened cocoa powder, but that doesn't usually go over too well. I normally buy "Silly Cow Farm" hot chocolate. It comes in a cute little glass milk bottle. There are a few flavors like peppermint, pumpkin, and marshmallow creme. It is a little on the pricey side for me but worth it because I can read and pronounce all the ingredients. I just saw that Swiss Miss makes a "simply" hot chocolate now as well. We tried it this morning to bring to a soccer game and all kids loved it. I am so happy to see that more brands are becoming aware of the ingredients they use. I hope this "simple" concept continues to grow and more brands realize that consumers want "real" ingredients.
With the colder weather here this week has some comfort foods for dinner. Many meals I can prep ahead of time so the early evening is not so crazy. Some recipes are new for me, but did not seem too difficult to make! Last week's hits were the Chicken Caesar salad, chili and risotto. What's working in your house? Please keep the sharing coming.
Our week ahead looks like this---
Monday: Beer-Braised Beef with Potatoes and Cabbage--new one for me. Found it in November Family Circle under article ,"Healthy Family Dinners". I think I may make some changes, like switching the cabbage with cauliflower. Not a big beef stew fan, but this recipe looks really good.
Tuesday: Pasta with chicken and creamy sauce and a mixed green salad
Wednesday: Surf and turf--Grilled shrimp and steak over jasmine rice and steamed veggies
Thursday; Fritata (baked omelet- like dish with cheese and veggies, kind of like a quiche?!)
Friday: Homemade pizza night--the grilled chicken pesto was a hit so we're doing that again
Weekend: Grandma and Aunt babysitting for weekend--kids requested Grandma's risotto and homemade meatballs & pasta sauce. A carb overload weekend, but whatever makes them happy when we're away!
Hoping you all stay warm and enjoy the week ahead!
As always, shout out if a meal looks intriguing to you and you'd like the recipe. I'm happy to send it along.
Donna
My kids love hot chocolate in the morning during the winter. I am picky about what I use since so many of the brands have added chemicals and preservatives. I have tried to make it in a pot with just unsweetened cocoa powder, but that doesn't usually go over too well. I normally buy "Silly Cow Farm" hot chocolate. It comes in a cute little glass milk bottle. There are a few flavors like peppermint, pumpkin, and marshmallow creme. It is a little on the pricey side for me but worth it because I can read and pronounce all the ingredients. I just saw that Swiss Miss makes a "simply" hot chocolate now as well. We tried it this morning to bring to a soccer game and all kids loved it. I am so happy to see that more brands are becoming aware of the ingredients they use. I hope this "simple" concept continues to grow and more brands realize that consumers want "real" ingredients.
With the colder weather here this week has some comfort foods for dinner. Many meals I can prep ahead of time so the early evening is not so crazy. Some recipes are new for me, but did not seem too difficult to make! Last week's hits were the Chicken Caesar salad, chili and risotto. What's working in your house? Please keep the sharing coming.
Our week ahead looks like this---
Monday: Beer-Braised Beef with Potatoes and Cabbage--new one for me. Found it in November Family Circle under article ,"Healthy Family Dinners". I think I may make some changes, like switching the cabbage with cauliflower. Not a big beef stew fan, but this recipe looks really good.
Tuesday: Pasta with chicken and creamy sauce and a mixed green salad
Wednesday: Surf and turf--Grilled shrimp and steak over jasmine rice and steamed veggies
Thursday; Fritata (baked omelet- like dish with cheese and veggies, kind of like a quiche?!)
Friday: Homemade pizza night--the grilled chicken pesto was a hit so we're doing that again
Weekend: Grandma and Aunt babysitting for weekend--kids requested Grandma's risotto and homemade meatballs & pasta sauce. A carb overload weekend, but whatever makes them happy when we're away!
Hoping you all stay warm and enjoy the week ahead!
As always, shout out if a meal looks intriguing to you and you'd like the recipe. I'm happy to send it along.
Donna
Sunday, October 26, 2014
Meals at a glance...
I love the time in the morning when everyone is still sleeping and I have some quiet time alone...sipping coffee, reading a book or newspaper, looking outside and not having to do anything!
It makes me think back to when I was little and I would walk into the kitchen and see my mom gazing into the backyard sipping her coffee. I think I would call her name 3 times until she would look up and say, "good morning!" Now I can relate Mom!!
Today is my third child's 10th birthday and I have been wondering where the time goes. I hate how quickly things change. I realize more then ever to make the best of each day! His birthday breakfast is in the oven and the house smells amazing. I found a recipe in the November issue of
Better Home and Gardens for a Dark Chocolate and Pumpkin Swirl Cake. He will be very happy when he wakes!
Last week's new recipes were a big hit. Everyone loved the tortilla pie & the Greek meatballs. The noodle dish and chili were my old dishes and are always crowd pleasers. Kids asked for a few repeats this week....
Monday; Farro risotto with zucchini and scallions-trying Grant's recipe from Culinary class
Tuesday: Grilled chicken Caesar salad
Wednesday; Pasta shells with sauteed kale, tomatoes, white beans and goat cheese
Thursday: Homemade chicken tenders, sweet potato fries and spaghetti squash
Friday: HALLOWEEN!!! Big pot of chili so we can eat it before trick- or- treating and after. Making Barefoot Contessa's chicken chili.
Saturday: Hoping for another beautiful fall weekend and will grill hamburgers and have a fire in the fire pit. All the fixings with the burgers--sauteed onions, mushrooms, cheese, lettuce, etc. with a tossed salad and roasted potatoes.
Sunday: fish night -Will buy whatever fish is wild and on sale! Side dish of brown Basmati rice and roasted brussel sprouts, butternut squash, and cauliflower
Someone asked for some breakfast ideas for kids during the busy week mornings. I'll add some of our favorites during this week.
Have a Happy and safe Halloween all! Shout out if you would like any recipes. Thank you again for sharing.
Donna
It makes me think back to when I was little and I would walk into the kitchen and see my mom gazing into the backyard sipping her coffee. I think I would call her name 3 times until she would look up and say, "good morning!" Now I can relate Mom!!
Today is my third child's 10th birthday and I have been wondering where the time goes. I hate how quickly things change. I realize more then ever to make the best of each day! His birthday breakfast is in the oven and the house smells amazing. I found a recipe in the November issue of
Better Home and Gardens for a Dark Chocolate and Pumpkin Swirl Cake. He will be very happy when he wakes!
Last week's new recipes were a big hit. Everyone loved the tortilla pie & the Greek meatballs. The noodle dish and chili were my old dishes and are always crowd pleasers. Kids asked for a few repeats this week....
Monday; Farro risotto with zucchini and scallions-trying Grant's recipe from Culinary class
Tuesday: Grilled chicken Caesar salad
Wednesday; Pasta shells with sauteed kale, tomatoes, white beans and goat cheese
Thursday: Homemade chicken tenders, sweet potato fries and spaghetti squash
Friday: HALLOWEEN!!! Big pot of chili so we can eat it before trick- or- treating and after. Making Barefoot Contessa's chicken chili.
Saturday: Hoping for another beautiful fall weekend and will grill hamburgers and have a fire in the fire pit. All the fixings with the burgers--sauteed onions, mushrooms, cheese, lettuce, etc. with a tossed salad and roasted potatoes.
Sunday: fish night -Will buy whatever fish is wild and on sale! Side dish of brown Basmati rice and roasted brussel sprouts, butternut squash, and cauliflower
Someone asked for some breakfast ideas for kids during the busy week mornings. I'll add some of our favorites during this week.
Have a Happy and safe Halloween all! Shout out if you would like any recipes. Thank you again for sharing.
Donna
Sunday, October 19, 2014
Meals at a glance...
Its hard for me to believe that Halloween is around the corner! Fall is flying by. I indulged this week and bought fall colored M & M's. I filled some decorative bowls and the kids are thrilled. I have learned though that I do not have such great willpower! I transferred all candy to a big mason jar with a lid and now it's not so easy to grab a few chocolates every now and then!
We had many orthodontist visits last week and while waiting in the office I read the November issue of Good Housekeeping. I found some new recipes to try and am hoping that they may be keepers!
Full week of games and activities so this week's meals need to be healthy and easy. The recipes in Good Housekeeping claim to be 20 minute meals. I'll let you know next week if that was the case.
Last week's dinners had a few hits...the rice bowl for sure was a success as was the creamy baked pasta and kale. The walnut crusted chicken was not loved by all. I think I'll stick to panko for a breading.
On to this week's plan...
Monday: Mexican night-Triple-Decker Tortilla Pie, a Good Housekeeping recipe. I'm going to "health" it up a bit and use whole grain tortillas and also add some beans in addition to the chicken, cheese and avocado.
Tuesday: Chicken, snow pea & broccoli stir fry with soba noodles and a homemade peanut sauce.
Wednesday: Greek style meatballs with roasted red potatoes and a big Greek salad. Meatball recipe from GH.
Thursday: Turkey & black bean chili. During class this week, a friend mentioned that she used pumpkin puree in her chili instead of tomato paste. Since we all love pumpkin here, I'm going to give this a try.
Friday: grilled chicken & pesto pizza on whole wheat crust with a mixed green salad.
Saturday: grilled pork tenderloin, crispy kale and Israeli couscous
Sunday: Johnny's birthday dinner. He has not chosen his meal yet, but my guess is it will be something like this--sushi for an appetizer (his sister will make the rolls), dumplings filled with ground pork and veggies, and his uncle Brad's spicy grilled shrimp. "Dirt" for dessert.
I love that people are sending me links to various sites with more recipe ideas! Keep it coming! Please share what's on your table and let me know if there are any recipes you'd like to try.
Enjoy!
Donna
We had many orthodontist visits last week and while waiting in the office I read the November issue of Good Housekeeping. I found some new recipes to try and am hoping that they may be keepers!
Full week of games and activities so this week's meals need to be healthy and easy. The recipes in Good Housekeeping claim to be 20 minute meals. I'll let you know next week if that was the case.
Last week's dinners had a few hits...the rice bowl for sure was a success as was the creamy baked pasta and kale. The walnut crusted chicken was not loved by all. I think I'll stick to panko for a breading.
On to this week's plan...
Monday: Mexican night-Triple-Decker Tortilla Pie, a Good Housekeeping recipe. I'm going to "health" it up a bit and use whole grain tortillas and also add some beans in addition to the chicken, cheese and avocado.
Tuesday: Chicken, snow pea & broccoli stir fry with soba noodles and a homemade peanut sauce.
Wednesday: Greek style meatballs with roasted red potatoes and a big Greek salad. Meatball recipe from GH.
Thursday: Turkey & black bean chili. During class this week, a friend mentioned that she used pumpkin puree in her chili instead of tomato paste. Since we all love pumpkin here, I'm going to give this a try.
Friday: grilled chicken & pesto pizza on whole wheat crust with a mixed green salad.
Saturday: grilled pork tenderloin, crispy kale and Israeli couscous
Sunday: Johnny's birthday dinner. He has not chosen his meal yet, but my guess is it will be something like this--sushi for an appetizer (his sister will make the rolls), dumplings filled with ground pork and veggies, and his uncle Brad's spicy grilled shrimp. "Dirt" for dessert.
I love that people are sending me links to various sites with more recipe ideas! Keep it coming! Please share what's on your table and let me know if there are any recipes you'd like to try.
Enjoy!
Donna
Sunday, October 12, 2014
Meals at a glance...
Fall is my favorite time of the year. Yet, as October moves along I find myself at times feeling sad. My father was born in October and died in October. I think of him daily wondering how he'd handle certain situations, what he'd think about what's happening in our world, his reactions to watching his grandkids play sports, and remembering his smiles as he enjoyed a good meal with his family.
I grew up having incredible home cooked meals, sitting at the table with both parents and all four sisters. Dinner time was when we shared our stories about our day. A meeting time, laughing time, and eating time! Once a week my grandparents would visit and bring special treats from my grandfather's store (he was a butcher and owned a market). We never wanted for food that was for sure! I have wonderful memories and many are of my family seated around a big table.
I have tried to create this experience for my children. In this day and age it is a challenge for us to all be able to sit at the table together because of the different activities and because of my husband's commute. Meal time is sometimes rushed, but we do manage to all eat together at least 5 days out of the week. My kids have developed an interest in cooking and enjoy food. I feel very lucky! During a soccer tournament yesterday, we were able to take a break in between games and warm up in an Italian market. I felt like I was with my dad. The smells brought back so many fond memories. Too many choices so we had to sample a few items! I was inspired looking at all the prepared meals and bought some sweet Italian sausage to use in this week's menu.
Our meals for the week...
Monday: Creamy baked pasta with kale, Parmesan and sausage (going for a healthier version and using brown rice pasta)
Tuesday: Steak sandwiches with a health slaw salad and home made sweet potato wedges
Wednesday; Walnut crusted chicken breasts with quinoa and salad
Thursday; Vegetable rice bowls (trying something different for Teddy-he always chooses risotto so we're branching out!! Kind of like potato bar night, but with brown rice as the main ingredient and lots of toppings. ill let you know how it goes.)
Friday; Pizza night and big salad-trying a new recipe--arugula with maple-roasted pumpkin
Saturday: Busy weekend so making a big pot of meatball soup with good bread for dipping. A favorite here on cold days.
Sunday: Curry rubbed salmon with napa slaw ( recipe from a favorite cook book-power foods)
On my dad's birthday I'm going to try and bake an Orange-walnut olive oil cake with sweet yogurt. Looks delicious! Another recipe from Power foods. Just hope I can pull it off!
Enjoy your week! Take time and enjoy your meals with your loved ones.
Donna
I grew up having incredible home cooked meals, sitting at the table with both parents and all four sisters. Dinner time was when we shared our stories about our day. A meeting time, laughing time, and eating time! Once a week my grandparents would visit and bring special treats from my grandfather's store (he was a butcher and owned a market). We never wanted for food that was for sure! I have wonderful memories and many are of my family seated around a big table.
I have tried to create this experience for my children. In this day and age it is a challenge for us to all be able to sit at the table together because of the different activities and because of my husband's commute. Meal time is sometimes rushed, but we do manage to all eat together at least 5 days out of the week. My kids have developed an interest in cooking and enjoy food. I feel very lucky! During a soccer tournament yesterday, we were able to take a break in between games and warm up in an Italian market. I felt like I was with my dad. The smells brought back so many fond memories. Too many choices so we had to sample a few items! I was inspired looking at all the prepared meals and bought some sweet Italian sausage to use in this week's menu.
Our meals for the week...
Monday: Creamy baked pasta with kale, Parmesan and sausage (going for a healthier version and using brown rice pasta)
Tuesday: Steak sandwiches with a health slaw salad and home made sweet potato wedges
Wednesday; Walnut crusted chicken breasts with quinoa and salad
Thursday; Vegetable rice bowls (trying something different for Teddy-he always chooses risotto so we're branching out!! Kind of like potato bar night, but with brown rice as the main ingredient and lots of toppings. ill let you know how it goes.)
Friday; Pizza night and big salad-trying a new recipe--arugula with maple-roasted pumpkin
Saturday: Busy weekend so making a big pot of meatball soup with good bread for dipping. A favorite here on cold days.
Sunday: Curry rubbed salmon with napa slaw ( recipe from a favorite cook book-power foods)
On my dad's birthday I'm going to try and bake an Orange-walnut olive oil cake with sweet yogurt. Looks delicious! Another recipe from Power foods. Just hope I can pull it off!
Enjoy your week! Take time and enjoy your meals with your loved ones.
Donna
Saturday, October 4, 2014
Meals at a glance...
Time flies and another week has come to an end, and I find myself trying to get ahead of the madness by planning ahead, looking at my calendar at work, appointments and kids' stuff. Easy to become overwhelmed but I remind myself to breathe, enjoy, and break things down into small tasks. Sometimes easier said then done, but talking to myself helps! Do any of you do that?! Hoping I'm not the only one!!
If you've seen any of my face book posts, you know that my family and I rescued a 4-5 month old puppy. Vet thinks around that age because of her teeth. She is very sweet & is beginning to feel like a part of the family. It's funny how something like a puppy makes me stop and reassess things. I'm always in a rush, but Sadie has made me slow down. I never paid attention before to the sounds, sights and smells in my yard. Now about 4 times a day I am outside with her teaching the spots in the yard where she can eliminate and I have plenty of time to take in my surroundings. I love that my 4 kids are sharing responsibilities, loving their new puppy, and respecting their old 14 year dog who needs just as much love and attention in different ways! All devices have been put down for awhile. No one wakes up and grabs their ipod touch to play a game! The TV is not calling their names either which is great. I'm hoping the newness and excitement stays forever! Well, at least for awhile:) More time has even been spent with me in the market, mostly looking for puppy toys and treats!
My oldest son in high school is in a culinary class as a special. He loves it and has asked to make some meals that he has prepared in class. Loving that!! Keeping things in perspective this week and making some easy repeats as well as some new recipes.
A peek at this week's meals...
Monday: Loaded baked potato soup and tossed green salad
Tuesday: Beef and broccoli stir fry served over brown rice
Wednesday: White chicken chili with tomato & cucumber salad
Thursday: Butternut squash risotto with a side salad
Friday: Tailgating food before USA vs. Ecuador soccer game. Landon Donovan's last game!!! Super excited. Most likely will pack subs, fruit, hummus, veggies, & chips. Sure we will have some treats in the stands too.
Saturday: Request from all--rib eye steaks and Gorgonzola salad. In- laws visiting and they love steak. Repeat from this week, but it was a crowd pleaser!
Sunday: Homemade clam chowder, good loaf or loaves of bread and mixed greens
That's my week at a glance. Things sometimes change around here, but shopping is done, fridge and cabinets stocked, so now I can enjoy my time with my husband, kids, and dogs!
Enjoy all. Take time and take pleasure in the small things. Don't let life pass you by without noticing.
Donna
If you've seen any of my face book posts, you know that my family and I rescued a 4-5 month old puppy. Vet thinks around that age because of her teeth. She is very sweet & is beginning to feel like a part of the family. It's funny how something like a puppy makes me stop and reassess things. I'm always in a rush, but Sadie has made me slow down. I never paid attention before to the sounds, sights and smells in my yard. Now about 4 times a day I am outside with her teaching the spots in the yard where she can eliminate and I have plenty of time to take in my surroundings. I love that my 4 kids are sharing responsibilities, loving their new puppy, and respecting their old 14 year dog who needs just as much love and attention in different ways! All devices have been put down for awhile. No one wakes up and grabs their ipod touch to play a game! The TV is not calling their names either which is great. I'm hoping the newness and excitement stays forever! Well, at least for awhile:) More time has even been spent with me in the market, mostly looking for puppy toys and treats!
My oldest son in high school is in a culinary class as a special. He loves it and has asked to make some meals that he has prepared in class. Loving that!! Keeping things in perspective this week and making some easy repeats as well as some new recipes.
A peek at this week's meals...
Monday: Loaded baked potato soup and tossed green salad
Tuesday: Beef and broccoli stir fry served over brown rice
Wednesday: White chicken chili with tomato & cucumber salad
Thursday: Butternut squash risotto with a side salad
Friday: Tailgating food before USA vs. Ecuador soccer game. Landon Donovan's last game!!! Super excited. Most likely will pack subs, fruit, hummus, veggies, & chips. Sure we will have some treats in the stands too.
Saturday: Request from all--rib eye steaks and Gorgonzola salad. In- laws visiting and they love steak. Repeat from this week, but it was a crowd pleaser!
Sunday: Homemade clam chowder, good loaf or loaves of bread and mixed greens
That's my week at a glance. Things sometimes change around here, but shopping is done, fridge and cabinets stocked, so now I can enjoy my time with my husband, kids, and dogs!
Enjoy all. Take time and take pleasure in the small things. Don't let life pass you by without noticing.
Donna
Sunday, September 28, 2014
Meals at a glance....
Life has just become a little crazier...we decided to adopt a 5 month old puppy as an early birthday/Christmas gift! I am still feeling overwhelmed and having second thoughts about our decision, but am giving it my all to make it work for me and for my 14 year old lab. So, that being said, meals have been altered a bit and simplified a tad more!
The family favorite this week was definitely the baked potato bar. My oldest son's creation was potato with cheddar cheese and bacon, then a sunny- side up egg on top. It looked beautiful, and once all the other kids had a glimpse they wanted the same! Broccoli of course was on the side!
The second favorite that was not planned but happened because of time and convenience was pumpkin soup. An old recipe from years ago, but one of my favorites as well. These two meals have been requested again for this week. I'm relieved to have it be easy! I also received the October Fitness magazine and found some great breakfast- for -dinner ideas.
Meals for the week ahead look like this...
Monday: Back by popular demand---Baked potato bar with bacon, eggs, cheese, broccoli and whatever else we can think of as toppings!
Tuesday: Pumpkin soup, tossed green salad, whole grain loaf of bread
Wednesday: Loaded sweet-potato breakfast burritos (Fitness magazine)
Thursday: Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup and salad
Friday: Roasted brussel sprouts, parsnips, carrots, and red onions as a side and homemade pizzas
Saturday: Rib eye steaks and Gorgonzola salad
Sunday: Grilled salmon and haddock with sauteed zucchini, onions, mushrooms and garlic
We are making Apple Cider Doughnut- Muffins for school morning breakfasts today. Seems to be an easy and for the most part healthier option than store bought muffins. I'll let you know if they're a hit!
Please share what you're cooking in your kitchens...as always if something strikes your interest and you'd like the recipe be in touch with me.
Enjoy the week!
Donna
The family favorite this week was definitely the baked potato bar. My oldest son's creation was potato with cheddar cheese and bacon, then a sunny- side up egg on top. It looked beautiful, and once all the other kids had a glimpse they wanted the same! Broccoli of course was on the side!
The second favorite that was not planned but happened because of time and convenience was pumpkin soup. An old recipe from years ago, but one of my favorites as well. These two meals have been requested again for this week. I'm relieved to have it be easy! I also received the October Fitness magazine and found some great breakfast- for -dinner ideas.
Meals for the week ahead look like this...
Monday: Back by popular demand---Baked potato bar with bacon, eggs, cheese, broccoli and whatever else we can think of as toppings!
Tuesday: Pumpkin soup, tossed green salad, whole grain loaf of bread
Wednesday: Loaded sweet-potato breakfast burritos (Fitness magazine)
Thursday: Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup and salad
Friday: Roasted brussel sprouts, parsnips, carrots, and red onions as a side and homemade pizzas
Saturday: Rib eye steaks and Gorgonzola salad
Sunday: Grilled salmon and haddock with sauteed zucchini, onions, mushrooms and garlic
We are making Apple Cider Doughnut- Muffins for school morning breakfasts today. Seems to be an easy and for the most part healthier option than store bought muffins. I'll let you know if they're a hit!
Please share what you're cooking in your kitchens...as always if something strikes your interest and you'd like the recipe be in touch with me.
Enjoy the week!
Donna
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
3-ingredient meat loaf and mashed potato-cauliflower
This week a few people have asked for these 2 recipes, so I thought I'd post them rather then send them out individually!
The meat loaf is a Biggest Loser recipe and the cauliflower mashed potatoes is my own that I have played around with over the past few months. For the veggie dish I use one whole head of cauliflower, rinsed and stem removed and 6 nice size potatoes, peeled and cut in half. I boil a pot of salted water and add the potatoes and cauliflower. Keep at a boil for a few minutes then lower heat to simmer for at least 45 minutes. Make sure a fork pierces the potato and the center is soft. Drain the water, reserving a little. Add a tablespoon butter, pour a small amount of milk ( I use skim), sprinkle a good dose of garlic powder and beat with a mixer until thick & smooth. Season with salt and pepper and enjoy! These 2 recipes are my kids favorites. I hope they become yours too. Let me know.
Recipe: Three-ingredient meat loaf
Ingredients
- Olive oil spray (propellant free)
- 1 pound extra lean ground turkey
- 1/2 cup all-natural barbecue sauce, preferably sweetened with agave nectar or honey (I used OrganicVille Original BBQ Sauce)
- 2 ounces crumbled goat cheese
Preparation
We've all heard that, in life, some things are greater than the sum of their parts. Here is an example: This meat loaf only uses three ingredients and can be put together in minutes, yet it yields a decadent dish that you would never guess is low in calories.
I wouldn't recommend making this in a loaf pan. The end result will be tastier if you use a baking dish or cake pan.
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line an 8" x 8" square or round nonstick baking dish or cake pan with nonstick foil. Lightly mist the foil with the olive oil spray.
In a medium mixing bowl, mix the turkey, 5 tablespoons of the sauce, and the goat cheese until well combined. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan, shaping it into an 8" x 3" log that stretches from one side of the pan to the other and is an even thickness. Using a pastry brush, spread the remaining sauce evenly over the top and sides, making sure it does not run onto the pan.
Bake for 23 to 27 minutes, or until no longer pink inside. Let stand for 10 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, cut into 8 slices, and serve immediately.
Per serving: 209 calories, 31 g protein, 13 g carbohydrates (11 g sugar), 5 g fat, 2 g saturated fat, 52 mg cholesterol, 0 g fiber, 317 mg sodium
Tips
Tip: Extra lean ground turkey doesn't have to be dry if you add moisture to it like I do here with the addition of BBQ Sauce. This recipe uses extra lean ground turkey where only 15 of the 120 calories are from fat. If you opt for the lean, which is 7% fat, 70 of the 170 calories for the same sized serving are from fat.
Look for an all-natural barbeque sauce, preferably sweetened with agave nectar or honey. Many have tons of high fructose corn syrup.
I love using goat cheese because it packs a punch of flavor so you only need a little bit
If you aren't part of a family of 4, proportion the additional servings BEFORE you sit down to eat. You're less likely to overeat if they're already placed in a resealable bags or resealable plastic containers.
Serving Size
Makes 4 (2-slice) servings
Happy Cooking!
Donna
Wednesday, September 17, 2014
Meals at a glance...
I'm planning a little ahead this week because I have a barefoot training workshop all weekend. Really excited about meeting Stacey Lei Krauss, the founder of the willPower & grace method. Perfect opportunity for me to refine my skills and learn from the best!
Fridge is stocked with meals while I'm away. I froze some lasagna that I had made a few weeks ago for one night and some salad & chicken for Scott to grill the other night. Now on to the following week...
I'm loving the cooler weather because of all the nice fall dishes we can choose from and create. Fall vegetables are some of my favorites and my families too. I love all the different squashes, especially butternut, acorn and pumpkin. We will incorporate many different kinds of fall vegetables in our meals. I love to roast them with chicken or separately and use them in soups.
Fall sports are in full spring as is my after school youth fitness classes, so the more I can plan ahead the better. This week's meals are conducive to the busy schedules and I can prep and make ahead of time which is great. Some feel good dinners are on the menu for this week...
Monday: Baked Potato/Sweet potato bar. A great way to present lots of different vegetables in your meal. Some of the ones we use are avocados, scallions, broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, spaghetti squash and peppers.
Tuesday: 3-Ingredient Turkey Meatloaf with mashed cauliflower. So easy to make and healthy for you too!
Wednesday: Vegetarian Chili and homemade cornbread
Thursday: Roasted chicken with roasted fall vegetables
Friday: homemade pizzas, another great way to introduce a variety of vegetables
Saturday: sesame spinach salad, our imitation of seaweed salad, and soba noodles, vegetable & shrimp stir fry
Sunday: spaghetti & meatballs, perfect after spending the day on different fields watching soccer!
As always, please share what's on your table! If you'd like a recipe from this week's meal selections please do not hesitate to be in touch with me.
Enjoy!
Donna
Fridge is stocked with meals while I'm away. I froze some lasagna that I had made a few weeks ago for one night and some salad & chicken for Scott to grill the other night. Now on to the following week...
I'm loving the cooler weather because of all the nice fall dishes we can choose from and create. Fall vegetables are some of my favorites and my families too. I love all the different squashes, especially butternut, acorn and pumpkin. We will incorporate many different kinds of fall vegetables in our meals. I love to roast them with chicken or separately and use them in soups.
Fall sports are in full spring as is my after school youth fitness classes, so the more I can plan ahead the better. This week's meals are conducive to the busy schedules and I can prep and make ahead of time which is great. Some feel good dinners are on the menu for this week...
Monday: Baked Potato/Sweet potato bar. A great way to present lots of different vegetables in your meal. Some of the ones we use are avocados, scallions, broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, spaghetti squash and peppers.
Tuesday: 3-Ingredient Turkey Meatloaf with mashed cauliflower. So easy to make and healthy for you too!
Wednesday: Vegetarian Chili and homemade cornbread
Thursday: Roasted chicken with roasted fall vegetables
Friday: homemade pizzas, another great way to introduce a variety of vegetables
Saturday: sesame spinach salad, our imitation of seaweed salad, and soba noodles, vegetable & shrimp stir fry
Sunday: spaghetti & meatballs, perfect after spending the day on different fields watching soccer!
As always, please share what's on your table! If you'd like a recipe from this week's meal selections please do not hesitate to be in touch with me.
Enjoy!
Donna
Friday, September 12, 2014
Welcome September....
It's been hard for me to find my groove now that the kids are back in school and my work hours are increasing. Still feel like it should be summer and I'm enjoying trips to the Creamery for ice cream (new favorite flavor is Oh Snap-pumpkin ice cream with homemade ginger snaps blended throughout!), and indulging in some summer time drinks. I can tell by the way I feel I need to do a little reboot to my system!
I have found some nice "Detox" recipes from the website Oh She Glows and will be enjoying them this week!
Here is one recipe that I am excited to make.
I have found some nice "Detox" recipes from the website Oh She Glows and will be enjoying them this week!
Here is one recipe that I am excited to make.
The Oh She Glows Cookbook: Eat Your Greens Detox Soup
Ingredients
1½ teaspoons (7 mL) coconut oil or olive oil
1 sweet onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups (750 mL) sliced cremini or white button mushrooms (about 8 ounces)
1 cup (250 mL) chopped carrots
2 cups (500 mL) chopped broccoli florets
Fine-grain sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1½ to 3 teaspoons (7 to 15 mL) grated peeled fresh ginger
½ teaspoon (2 mL) ground turmeric
2 teaspoons (10 mL) ground cumin
⅛ teaspoon (0.5 mL) ground cinnamon
5 cups (1.25 L) vegetable broth
2 large nori seaweed sheets , cut into 1-inch (2.5-cm) strips (optional)
2 cups (500 mL) torn kale leaves
Fresh lemon juice, for serving (optional)
Method
- In a large saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for about 5 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Add the mushrooms, carrots and broccoli and stir to combine. Season generously with salt and pepper and sauté for 5 minutes more.
- Stir in the ginger, turmeric, cumin, and cinnamon and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the broth and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the vegetables are tender, 10 to 20 minutes.
- Just before serving, stir in the nori (if using) and kale and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, if desired.
Some other great recipes are Detox Tabbouleh, by Angela Liddon and Thai-Inspired Cucumber Salad with Roasted Spiced Chickpeas.
You can find the recipes on http://www.ohsheglows.com and search Detox Tabbouleh and Thai-Inspired hydrating cucumber salad with roasted spiced chickpeas.
Would love to hear how you like these recipes. I have made all 3 before and they are truly delicious and also have the power of cleansing the system!
Please share if you have a favorite healthy recipe or if you are familiar with Oh She Glows, either the cookbook or the site.
Welcome September by storm by feeling good!
Yours,
Donna
Friday, September 5, 2014
Meals at a glance....
Back to the grind is never easy, but things around here are beginning to feel like "normal" again. This week is a little tricky with all the back to school nights to attend, so we're keeping it fairly manageable with our meals this week. I do really try to keep things healthy yet within a budget for my family. People often ask me if I only buy organic. I wish I could, however definitely not in the budget! I buy organic where I can and I pick and choose what is eaten most. My kids love apples, pears, romaine lettuce, spinach, kale, carrots, celery, broccoli, peanut butter and yogurt. (to name a few). I cant buy organic milk so I choose Garelick Farms. I try and buy organic chicken and grass fed beef and wild fish. I don't buy much "junk", the stuff on the inside aisles of the market, but I do buy potato chips made with just potatoes and salt. I bake most treats so I know what's in them. I do okay...not perfect, but who is???? I don't want people to think I'm "holier than tho healthy", because I'm not. I try to live by example for my kids and hope it pays off!
I thought I'd share with you what was a hit last week and what didn't go over as well as I'd expected. The skirt steak was I think the favorite of the week. I marinated it in Dijon mustard, vinegar and a little olive oil. I barely ate a 1/4 of a piece because my oldest ate 2 full skirt steaks (and asked for more) and my 6 year old ate an entire one too. Not much left for the others so I gave up mine! Shopping for good quality meats is getting very expensive for me with my 4 growing kids, so I am doing lots of veggies and whole grains on the side. Would love to hear where you do your shopping for the best deals. Runner up favorite was the soba noodle stir fry. Everyone here likes a good noodle dish! Least favorite was the quinoa-turkey patties, although they were my favorite. a great dish if you like felafel's. Everyone ate them...that's my rule here...have to give it a fair try. Heard lots of ,"this looks funny", and I don't like the sauce (tahini). I gave them ketchup instead! There are always veggies, salad, and some cut up fruit if you don't love the main dish. I do not make more than one meal, so if you're still hungry fruit and veggies are your choices. It is a rare occasion that someone is miserable at the table, but it does happen!
Meals for the upcoming week...
Monday: tacos with ground turkey, all the fixins' like beans, corn, avocados, lettuce, etc. I like the brand of shells that is GMO free, I believe it is Garden of Eden.
Tuesday: baked ziti made with brown rice pasta, sauce, mozzarella and ricotta cheeses and edamame salad (no one here knows the difference that it's brown rice pasta & I feel better eating it rather than the white flour kind)
Wednesday: homemade chicken tenders, roasted broccoli and cauliflower, and sauteed chick peas
Thursday: ribollita soup (keeping fingers crossed that it cools off for this--it's Teddy, my youngest son's pick of the week, and he most always chooses something hot!) a nice loaf of some good whole grain bread to accompany.
Friday: homemade calzones with lots of veggies and some Applegate bacon and salad
Saturday: grilled chicken and zucchini and corn on the cob with tomato salad
Sunday: whatever wild fish is on sale!
I would love this blog to turn into a sharing page where we can all share ideas, stores we go to, cookbooks, etc. Please give me some feedback. I'd love to know what you find helpful and what you rather not read. I'm all about being honest but not hurting feelings!
enjoy the week all....Donna
I thought I'd share with you what was a hit last week and what didn't go over as well as I'd expected. The skirt steak was I think the favorite of the week. I marinated it in Dijon mustard, vinegar and a little olive oil. I barely ate a 1/4 of a piece because my oldest ate 2 full skirt steaks (and asked for more) and my 6 year old ate an entire one too. Not much left for the others so I gave up mine! Shopping for good quality meats is getting very expensive for me with my 4 growing kids, so I am doing lots of veggies and whole grains on the side. Would love to hear where you do your shopping for the best deals. Runner up favorite was the soba noodle stir fry. Everyone here likes a good noodle dish! Least favorite was the quinoa-turkey patties, although they were my favorite. a great dish if you like felafel's. Everyone ate them...that's my rule here...have to give it a fair try. Heard lots of ,"this looks funny", and I don't like the sauce (tahini). I gave them ketchup instead! There are always veggies, salad, and some cut up fruit if you don't love the main dish. I do not make more than one meal, so if you're still hungry fruit and veggies are your choices. It is a rare occasion that someone is miserable at the table, but it does happen!
Meals for the upcoming week...
Monday: tacos with ground turkey, all the fixins' like beans, corn, avocados, lettuce, etc. I like the brand of shells that is GMO free, I believe it is Garden of Eden.
Tuesday: baked ziti made with brown rice pasta, sauce, mozzarella and ricotta cheeses and edamame salad (no one here knows the difference that it's brown rice pasta & I feel better eating it rather than the white flour kind)
Wednesday: homemade chicken tenders, roasted broccoli and cauliflower, and sauteed chick peas
Thursday: ribollita soup (keeping fingers crossed that it cools off for this--it's Teddy, my youngest son's pick of the week, and he most always chooses something hot!) a nice loaf of some good whole grain bread to accompany.
Friday: homemade calzones with lots of veggies and some Applegate bacon and salad
Saturday: grilled chicken and zucchini and corn on the cob with tomato salad
Sunday: whatever wild fish is on sale!
I would love this blog to turn into a sharing page where we can all share ideas, stores we go to, cookbooks, etc. Please give me some feedback. I'd love to know what you find helpful and what you rather not read. I'm all about being honest but not hurting feelings!
enjoy the week all....Donna
Sunday, August 31, 2014
Meals at a glance...
We survived the first week back to school. I think it was harder for me then the for the kids!
Lots of paper work for me to read, sign and return and lots of checks to write and turn in....never ending!
We all have our organizers and systems to help us keep our lives and families' activities together. I'm still working on some kind of file system for all the school handouts! But what I do have worked out is my grocery list and meals for the week. Some people may think I'm crazy, but I find that planning ahead saves me time from returning to the market every few days and it saves me money. It also allows me to spend time with my kids when they get home from school. They look forward to their night when they can help make the meal they have chosen. I have collected (and continue to search for ) healthy & family friendly cookbooks. My newest favorite is Power Foods. It has great recipes and indexes to help you stock your kitchen with essentials. Please share some of your favorite cook books!
Meals chosen for this week...
Monday-Labor Day parade and neighborhood party- making a quinoa, black bean salad with avocados, red onion, pepper and lime vinegarette dressing
Tuesday: skirt steak with roasted Brussels sprouts, pear and shallots
Wednesday: quinoa and turkey patties in pita with tahini sauce
Thursday: soba noodle, tofu and vegetable stir fry
Friday: homemade pizzas
Saturday: fish tacos
Sunday: vegetable lasagna with mixed green salad
Hope this helps anyone looking for some new ideas to try in your kitchen. If you'd like the full recipe please contact me and I'll be happy to send it to you.
Enjoy your Labor Day weekend:)
Donna
Lots of paper work for me to read, sign and return and lots of checks to write and turn in....never ending!
We all have our organizers and systems to help us keep our lives and families' activities together. I'm still working on some kind of file system for all the school handouts! But what I do have worked out is my grocery list and meals for the week. Some people may think I'm crazy, but I find that planning ahead saves me time from returning to the market every few days and it saves me money. It also allows me to spend time with my kids when they get home from school. They look forward to their night when they can help make the meal they have chosen. I have collected (and continue to search for ) healthy & family friendly cookbooks. My newest favorite is Power Foods. It has great recipes and indexes to help you stock your kitchen with essentials. Please share some of your favorite cook books!
Meals chosen for this week...
Monday-Labor Day parade and neighborhood party- making a quinoa, black bean salad with avocados, red onion, pepper and lime vinegarette dressing
Tuesday: skirt steak with roasted Brussels sprouts, pear and shallots
Wednesday: quinoa and turkey patties in pita with tahini sauce
Thursday: soba noodle, tofu and vegetable stir fry
Friday: homemade pizzas
Saturday: fish tacos
Sunday: vegetable lasagna with mixed green salad
Hope this helps anyone looking for some new ideas to try in your kitchen. If you'd like the full recipe please contact me and I'll be happy to send it to you.
Enjoy your Labor Day weekend:)
Donna
Sunday, August 24, 2014
Meals at a glance...
I'm feeling a little bit of denial that this is our last weekend before school begins! I'm not ready for back packs and lunches, homework and early morning craze! The kids chose their favorite meals for the first week of school. You'll definitely see many repeats! Ellie and I went to the market yesterday and did a super shop for back to school breakfasts and lunches. I found a hot cereal made with quinoa & flax that can be used to make muffins as well. We are going to make them Monday morning so everyone can enjoy healthy muffins before school in the morning. We also stocked up on Greek yogurts for a healthy treat. We bought many bags of nuts and some whole grain crackers and cheeses for snacks too. Popcorn is a favorite to have after school and so are cheese quesadillas. Feeling good that both indoor and outdoor fridges are stocked well!
This weeks meals are easy to prepare so I can be all ears when everyone arrives home from school.
Monday: pulled barbecue chicken on rolls with kale slaw
Tuesday: beef and broccoli stir fry with red quinoa
Wednesday: homemade chicken noodle soup served in individual bread bowls with a side salad
Thursday: shrimp, scallion and zucchini risotto
Friday: homemade rosemary, potato, bacon pizza and a mixed green salad
Saturday and Sunday are Labor Day weekend so lots of picnic food to bring on the boat.
As always I'd love to hear what others are making in their kitchens! Please share your ideas and be in touch if you'd like any recipes of mine.
Wishing everyone a happy and smooth transition back to school.
Donna
This weeks meals are easy to prepare so I can be all ears when everyone arrives home from school.
Monday: pulled barbecue chicken on rolls with kale slaw
Tuesday: beef and broccoli stir fry with red quinoa
Wednesday: homemade chicken noodle soup served in individual bread bowls with a side salad
Thursday: shrimp, scallion and zucchini risotto
Friday: homemade rosemary, potato, bacon pizza and a mixed green salad
Saturday and Sunday are Labor Day weekend so lots of picnic food to bring on the boat.
As always I'd love to hear what others are making in their kitchens! Please share your ideas and be in touch if you'd like any recipes of mine.
Wishing everyone a happy and smooth transition back to school.
Donna
Sunday, August 17, 2014
Meals at a glance...
Summer is winding down for my family. Mixed emotions for all...this is the last full week of relaxing evenings before the craziness begins. Playing around with some new recipes from a cookbook I treated myself to for my birthday. It's called Power Foods and is a compilation of recipes from one of my favorite magazines, Whole Living. It has nutritional info, great ideas on how to stock your pantry, and lots of family friendly recipes. I"m trying hard to incorporate more vegetables into our meals and have them be a main dish rather than a side.
Our week looks like this...
Sunday: Grass fed skirt steak, mashed cauliflower & potatoes, sauteed chick peas & green beans
Monday: Soba noodles, tofu & veggie stir fry
Tuesday: Roasted salmon & parsnips with ginger
Wednesday: Kale slaw with peanut dressing & grilled chicken
Thursday: Pork tenderloin with sauteed beet greens & roasted beets
Friday: Grilled fish tacos with all the fixins'
Saturday: Grilled portabello mushrooms & grass fed burgers, corn on the cob, and zucchini
With each meal is a green salad just in case the veggies being prepared are not a big hit! I do make it a point to have everyone have a helping of everything that is made. However, i want meal time to be enjoyable, so if something is not a favorite there is salad for a veggie as well. Hopefully the more kids are introduced to healthy meals the more adventurous they become at trying new things.
If any meals seem interesting to you, please contact me and I'll be happy to send you the recipes. Happy, healthy summer days!
Donna
Our week looks like this...
Sunday: Grass fed skirt steak, mashed cauliflower & potatoes, sauteed chick peas & green beans
Monday: Soba noodles, tofu & veggie stir fry
Tuesday: Roasted salmon & parsnips with ginger
Wednesday: Kale slaw with peanut dressing & grilled chicken
Thursday: Pork tenderloin with sauteed beet greens & roasted beets
Friday: Grilled fish tacos with all the fixins'
Saturday: Grilled portabello mushrooms & grass fed burgers, corn on the cob, and zucchini
With each meal is a green salad just in case the veggies being prepared are not a big hit! I do make it a point to have everyone have a helping of everything that is made. However, i want meal time to be enjoyable, so if something is not a favorite there is salad for a veggie as well. Hopefully the more kids are introduced to healthy meals the more adventurous they become at trying new things.
If any meals seem interesting to you, please contact me and I'll be happy to send you the recipes. Happy, healthy summer days!
Donna
Sunday, August 3, 2014
Meals at a glance...
This is our last family hurrah before school begins the end of August. Vacationing in Maine with family and friends is always a favorite. Many meals are planned together with various families so there is minimal prepping and cooking to be done, just lots of relaxing!
This week's meals have some local sea food and some items that can only be found in Down East Maine- red- hot hot dogs! Not my favorite, but some of the kids love them.
Sunday: Tonight is family night supper and is centered around a theme of dress up as your favorite book character. Dinner will be a buffet with lots of salads, pastas, and sauces.
Monday: Mexican night- chicken tacos and quesadillas with lots of fixings!
Tuesday: lasagna and salad
Wednesday: burgers and red-hots and fresh corn and local veggies
Thursday : lobster, steamers, red potatoes and Caesar salad
Friday: picnic on the rocks so lots of finger foods and appetizers like cheeses and crackers, hummus and veggies, pasta salads, chicken wings, etc.
Saturday: lobster festival parade and pot luck dinner - my birthday too so I'm definitely not cooking:)
Sunday: grilled veggies and chicken and rice
Trying to share the cooking and enjoy the last vacation of the summer. Happy week all.
Donna
This week's meals have some local sea food and some items that can only be found in Down East Maine- red- hot hot dogs! Not my favorite, but some of the kids love them.
Sunday: Tonight is family night supper and is centered around a theme of dress up as your favorite book character. Dinner will be a buffet with lots of salads, pastas, and sauces.
Monday: Mexican night- chicken tacos and quesadillas with lots of fixings!
Tuesday: lasagna and salad
Wednesday: burgers and red-hots and fresh corn and local veggies
Thursday : lobster, steamers, red potatoes and Caesar salad
Friday: picnic on the rocks so lots of finger foods and appetizers like cheeses and crackers, hummus and veggies, pasta salads, chicken wings, etc.
Saturday: lobster festival parade and pot luck dinner - my birthday too so I'm definitely not cooking:)
Sunday: grilled veggies and chicken and rice
Trying to share the cooking and enjoy the last vacation of the summer. Happy week all.
Donna
Monday, July 28, 2014
Meals at a glance...
I returned late last night from a long weekend away. I was feeling refreshed and re energized until I found myself being buried under laundry, chauffeuring my kids to various sporting activities, and racing through the market so I could make it back in time for pick up! Nothing like being thrown back into reality fast.
While away it was so nice to go out for meals and be free of most responsibilities. My husband and I were able to relax and enjoy some good food and wine. We sampled some amazing sandwiches in a small New York town's farmer's market (which we brought on a hike), and dined in a quaint French restaurant in the evening. Both meals were delicious! Even though I enjoy cooking, it was so nice to be served and have someone else do the cooking.
Some of this week's meals at a glance are inspired by my weekend away that now seems like it was months ago!
Meatless Monday: quinoa and veggie stuffed peppers
Tuesday: grilled salmon served with mango, corn and black bean salsa
Wednesday: grilled chicken Caesar salad with a nice baguette
Thursday: shrimp and vegetable risotto
Friday: baked crispy chicken, watermelon, and salad for a picnic dinner on the boat
Not sure what now what the weekend holds for us, so meals will be easy to bring on the boat. Most likely some wrap sandwiches, fresh veggies and hummus, cheese and crackers, and fruit.
Wishing you all a happy week ahead. Please share some of your dinner ideas!
Donna
While away it was so nice to go out for meals and be free of most responsibilities. My husband and I were able to relax and enjoy some good food and wine. We sampled some amazing sandwiches in a small New York town's farmer's market (which we brought on a hike), and dined in a quaint French restaurant in the evening. Both meals were delicious! Even though I enjoy cooking, it was so nice to be served and have someone else do the cooking.
Some of this week's meals at a glance are inspired by my weekend away that now seems like it was months ago!
Meatless Monday: quinoa and veggie stuffed peppers
Tuesday: grilled salmon served with mango, corn and black bean salsa
Wednesday: grilled chicken Caesar salad with a nice baguette
Thursday: shrimp and vegetable risotto
Friday: baked crispy chicken, watermelon, and salad for a picnic dinner on the boat
Not sure what now what the weekend holds for us, so meals will be easy to bring on the boat. Most likely some wrap sandwiches, fresh veggies and hummus, cheese and crackers, and fruit.
Wishing you all a happy week ahead. Please share some of your dinner ideas!
Donna
Sunday, July 20, 2014
Meals at a glance...
For this week's meals I did some surfing on pinterest and found some new and different recipes for my family to try. I also shopped at Trader's Joe's which I haven't done in awhile. I love that store and the employees! The staff seems happy to be there and they are helpful. It is an affordable way for me to buy organic without breaking the bank! Found some new snacks for the boat and breakfast foods for my early risers going to swim team. I also love that all products are GMO free. I may have to apply for a job there!
Our menu for the week ahead looks like this:
Monday: Summer Chicken Chopped Salad with Strawberries, Avocado & Feta
Tuesday: Ribs and Broccoli Slaw
Wednesday: Turkey Burger Pitas with Corn & black Bean Salad
Thursday: Healthy Baked Sweet & Spicy Wings with German Red Potato salad
Friday: Tomato, Vidalia Onion Pie & Salad
Saturday: Anniversary weekend so planning on going out Saturday night. Simple pasta dish for kids.
Sunday: Some type of fish cooked on the grill-whatever wild caught fish is on sale- and quinoa salad.
Contact me if interested in any recipes. Hope this comes in handy when you're thinking of planning your meals. Enjoy the week!
Donna
Our menu for the week ahead looks like this:
Monday: Summer Chicken Chopped Salad with Strawberries, Avocado & Feta
Tuesday: Ribs and Broccoli Slaw
Wednesday: Turkey Burger Pitas with Corn & black Bean Salad
Thursday: Healthy Baked Sweet & Spicy Wings with German Red Potato salad
Friday: Tomato, Vidalia Onion Pie & Salad
Saturday: Anniversary weekend so planning on going out Saturday night. Simple pasta dish for kids.
Sunday: Some type of fish cooked on the grill-whatever wild caught fish is on sale- and quinoa salad.
Contact me if interested in any recipes. Hope this comes in handy when you're thinking of planning your meals. Enjoy the week!
Donna
Monday, June 30, 2014
Flexibility...
Planning our meals during the summer can be tricky at times because on hot nights we like to picnic at the town pool or head out on our boat and eat dinner while we cool off. We tried to plan meals this week that could be easily transported. We try to take advantage of the farmer's market and the fresh herbs that we grow on our deck.
This week in particular we are trying different salads. If any seem appealing to you, please contact me and I'll send you the recipe.
This week's meals at a glance...
Monday: Avocado- black bean salad with taco fixins'.
Tuesday: Pasta salad with fresh herbs & veggies.
Wednesday: Gazpacho soup and baguette sandwiches with pesto, tomatoes & fresh mozzarella.
Thursday: Quinoa & salmon salad with arugula. For some of my boys, I will serve them the salmon and salad separately. I just reserve a little of each before I mix all together.
Friday: Fourth of July picnic! Burgers, dogs, and big salad are my assignments.
My family loves the casual meals and lighter menus for the summer. Still trying to make it healthy but fun. enjoy all!
Donna
This week in particular we are trying different salads. If any seem appealing to you, please contact me and I'll send you the recipe.
This week's meals at a glance...
Monday: Avocado- black bean salad with taco fixins'.
Tuesday: Pasta salad with fresh herbs & veggies.
Wednesday: Gazpacho soup and baguette sandwiches with pesto, tomatoes & fresh mozzarella.
Thursday: Quinoa & salmon salad with arugula. For some of my boys, I will serve them the salmon and salad separately. I just reserve a little of each before I mix all together.
Friday: Fourth of July picnic! Burgers, dogs, and big salad are my assignments.
My family loves the casual meals and lighter menus for the summer. Still trying to make it healthy but fun. enjoy all!
Donna
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