Over the last couple of days, the mornings have been super chilly and it’s beginning to really feel like the holiday season. I’ve been wearing a few sweaters and boots that I haven’t seen in a while, and sometimes it’s so fun to get reacquainted. I haven’t purchased as many new clothes this year because of the pandemic, but mostly because I’ve not done much inside dining, theatre, or traveled very far. However, the item that I always seem to buy are jeans because I wear them most days, especially when cooking because they can handle the heat in the kitchen. I need to start wearing aprons more often too because on occasion I do drip or splash on a favorite top, and it never seems to be the same after that. I love Hedley & Bennett aprons and if you haven’t been to their site to check them out, you simply must. They are a local company, which in the beginning of the pandemic started making masks, but are now back on the apron train with so many creative designs and styles. Chefs and home cooks wear them, and they make a pretty perfect holiday gift.
Meals this week are going to focus on heart-warming foods, things you crave when it’s dark by 5:00 p.m. To kick off the week, my Herb Roasted Swordfish with fennel, white beans and olives is not only easy to prepare, but it’s healthy comfort food. Tuesday is usually for tacos, but this week I encourage you to prepare my Mexican Tamale Pie. It’s made with real masa harina, not cornbread, so the flavors taste authentic and yummy. On hump day, it’s Vegan Chorizo Spaghetti and this dish will surely surprise those tastebuds. It’s slightly spicy, but not greasy, and made with vegan chorizo found fresh or frozen at most grocery stores. Thursday is my Skillet Pork Chops and Butternut Squash dinner. It’s done in one pan, and let me just say, “it’s practically perfect.” On Friday, we’re just glad we made it through another busy holiday week, so maybe a Charcuterie and Cheese Board is in order with a big glass of wine. Saturday’s are for baking, but also breakfast, so these Cranberry Crumb Muffins will taste so nicely alongside a few scrambled eggs and bacon. Have a tasty week, and stay warm!
Monday – I love this meal. It’s flavorful and hardy, yet doesn’t weigh you down and it’s easy to make.
Herby Roasted Swordfish with Fennel, White Beans & Olives – Recipe!
Tuesday – It’s tamale pie night and boy will this dinner impress. It’s rustic, and authentically tasty and will fill you up with delicious Mexican fare.
Mexican Tamale Pie – Recipe!
Wednesday – I’m in love with vegan chorizo. It’s zesty and packs a punch without tasting too heavy. It’s gives pasta night a real punch of flavor, which some of you may be quite surprised about.
Vegan Chorizo Spaghetti with Cherry Tomatoes – Recipe!
Thursday – This one skillet meal is not only quick and easy, but seasonally delicious. The pork and squash pair magically together in one pan.
Skillet Pork Chops & Butternut Squash – Recipe!
Friday – TGIF! It’s board night in more than just one way. A simple cheese and charcuterie dinner makes life pretty easy at the end of the week.
Ultimate Cheese & Charcuterie Board – Recipe!
Saturday – Nothing better than a warm muffin right out of the oven, and these cranberry crumb muffins will surely put you in the holiday spirit.
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