tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-70508662232840679122024-03-28T03:18:05.894-04:00Not-So-SAHMNot-So-SAHMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01449442571749036593noreply@blogger.comBlogger1089125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7050866223284067912.post-24485837258187341582020-09-10T15:34:00.005-04:002020-09-10T15:35:45.594-04:00Slow Cooker Chili and 145+ Days of Dinner <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc4uoTzl13K0Vv05XEyUjpuEuK5PSu5zm4fAdSRnNlupXlhviHQKHDKD0aL8InJYsqwBjVo7j8koR-ZUMKjKUnCwIILzdlDF7Idqm1SB4bj_1Cr8hPR31FKSrInEOoHieCSFu_9abVChJP/s2048/Chili.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc4uoTzl13K0Vv05XEyUjpuEuK5PSu5zm4fAdSRnNlupXlhviHQKHDKD0aL8InJYsqwBjVo7j8koR-ZUMKjKUnCwIILzdlDF7Idqm1SB4bj_1Cr8hPR31FKSrInEOoHieCSFu_9abVChJP/s16000/Chili.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p>The last time I shared our family meals, we were just five weeks into quarantine and I was FEELING it. We are now going on pandemic month six and while we ventured out a few times this summer to socially distant staycations and a few outside get togethers with friends, we've largely continued staying home. And while we definitely bumped up ordering out this summer, I've also been largely cooking three meals a day at home. So I've got lots of dinners to share! </p><p>With back to school in full swing this week, I've been on the hunt for new dinners that are delicious but not time consuming. And while the concept of chili is nothing new, this slow cooker version is super yummy and is the perfect addition to your fall dinner rotation. </p><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u>Slow Cooker Chili</u></b> </div><div style="text-align: center;">(slightly adapted from <a href="https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/slow-cooker-chili-crock-pot-giveaway/">Gimme Some Oven</a>)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Ingredients</b>: </div><div style="text-align: left;">- 1 tbsp olive oil</div><div style="text-align: left;">- 1 lb ground beef + 1 lb Italian sausage (or 2 lbs ground beef)</div><div style="text-align: left;">- 1 medium red onion, peeled and diced</div><div style="text-align: left;">- 6 cloves of garlic, minced</div><div style="text-align: left;">- 1 chipotle chili in adobo sauce, chopped</div><div style="text-align: left;">- 2 (15 ounce) cans dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained </div><div style="text-align: left;">- 2 (15 ounce) cans diced tomatoes</div><div style="text-align: left;">- 1 (15 ounce) can light red kidney beans, rinsed and drained </div><div style="text-align: left;">- 1 (4 ounce) can chopped green chiles </div><div style="text-align: left;">- 1 cup beer </div><div style="text-align: left;">- 2 tbsps chili powder</div><div style="text-align: left;">- 1 tbsp ground cumin </div><div style="text-align: left;">- 1 tsp salt</div><div style="text-align: left;">- 1 tsp sugar </div><div style="text-align: left;">- 1/2 tsp black pepper </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Directions</b>: </div><div style="text-align: left;">1. Heat oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef, onion and garlic and cook for about 7-10 minutes or until the beef is completely browned, crumbling the beef with a spoon as it cooks. Drain and discard the excess grease. Transfer mixture into the bottom of the slow cooker. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">2. Add the remaining ingredients and stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Taste and season with additional salt or pepper as you like. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Top with all your faves! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">* * *</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Day 1 (M)</b> - <a href="https://damndelicious.net/2015/06/22/easy-grilled-chicken/">Easy Grilled Chicken</a>; grilled veggies skillet potatoes </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Day 2 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.thekitchn.com/recipe-crispy-sheet-pan-gnocchi-and-veggies-247360">Crispy Sheet Pan Gnocchi and Veggies</a>; Salmon; sourdough skillet bread with herbs </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Day 3 (W)</b> - grilled filet mignon; roasted cauliflower; leftover potatoes </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Day 4 (Th)</b> - the Mr.'s burgers; salad; hash browns </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Day 5 (F)</b> - dinner out -- <a href="https://morelandstavern.com">Moreland's Tavern</a> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Day 6 (Sat) </b>- grilled salmon; jasmine rice; roasted green beans </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Day 7 (Sun) </b>- dinner out -- <a href="https://www.mintwoodplace.com">Mintwood Place</a> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><b>Day 8 (M)</b> - <a href="https://www.cookinglight.com/recipes/grilled-flash-marinated-skirt-steak">Grilled Flash-Marinated Hanger Steak</a>; roasted sweet potatoes; salad </div><div><b>Day 9 (T)</b> - sourdough pizza; <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/broccoli-caesar">Broccoli Caesear Salad</a> </div><div><b>Day 10 (W)</b> - <a href="https://smittenkitchen.com/2014/04/lamb-meatballs-with-feta-and-lemon/">Lamb Meatballs with Feta and Lemon</a>; polenta; grilled veggies </div><div><b>Day 11 (Th)</b> - <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2017/11/all-american-chili-30-days-of-dinner.html">All American Chili</a></div><div><b>Day 12 (F)</b> - charcuterie board </div><div><b>Day 13 (Sat) </b>- dinner out -- <a href="https://www.muchasgraciasdc.com">Muchas Gracias</a> </div><div><b>Day 14 (Sun) </b>- burgers; <a href="https://www.theclevercarrot.com/2013/05/light-brioche-hamburger-buns/">Brioche Buns</a>; salad; curly fries </div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Day 15 (M)</b> - <a href="https://sweetcsdesigns.com/one-pot-cheesy-taco-skillet">One Pot Cheesy Taco Skillet</a></div><div><b>Day 16 (T)</b> - Cam B-Day Dinner! <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/plated/comments/e1j5vn/can_we_all_just_agree_that_plateds_best_dish_was/">Smoked Salmon Pizza</a>; epic homemade Llamacorn Cake </div><div><b>Day 17 (W)</b> - <a href="https://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/pork-chops-couscous-tomato-caper-sauce">Pork Chops and Couscous with Tomato-Caper Sauce</a> </div><div><b>Day 18 (Th)</b> - <a href="https://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/grilled-balsamic-and-garlic-flank-steak">Grilled Balsamic-and-Garlic Flank Steak</a>; salad; potatoes</div><div><b>Day 19 (F)</b> - <a href="https://www.cookinglight.com/recipes/seared-salmon-balsamic-blistered-tomatoes">Seared Salmon with Balsamic-Blistered Tomatoes</a>; rice; green beans </div><div><b>Day 20 (Sat) </b>- dinner out -- <a href="https://www.littlecocos.com">Little Coco's</a> (we order from here A LOT)</div><div><b>Day 21 (Sun) </b>- <a href="https://www.halfbakedharvest.com/california-chicken-veggie-avocado-and-rice-bowls/">California Chicken, Veggie, Avocado and Rice Bowls</a> </div></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><b>Day 22 (M)</b> - grilled sausages; sweet potatoes; corn</div><div><b>Day 23 (T)</b> - <a href="https://smittenkitchen.com/2018/09/foolproof-cacio-e-pepe/">Foolproof Cacio e Pepe</a>; <a href="https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/3746-basil-parmesan-focaccia-with-fresh-tomatoes">Basil-Parmesean Focacia</a> </div><div><b>Day 24 (W)</b> - <a href="https://ourbalancedbowl.com/loaded-turkey-taco-bowls/">Loaded Turkey Taco Bowls</a> </div><div><b>Day 25 (Th)</b> - <a href="https://www.cookinglight.com/recipes/grilled-flash-marinated-skirt-steak">Grilled Flash-Marinated Hanger Steak</a>; cauliflower gnocchi; salad </div><div><b>Day 26 (F)</b> - sourdough pizza </div><div><b>Day 27 (Sat) </b>- dinner out -- <a href="https://www.kazsushi.com">Kaz Sushi</a> </div><div><b>Day 28 (Sun) </b>- dinner out </div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Day 29 (M)</b> - <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/sheet-pan-chicken-meatballs-and-charred-broccoli">Sheet-Pan Chicken Meatballs and Charred Broccoli</a> </div><div><b>Day 30 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/best-chicken-enchiladas-ever/">Best Chicken Enchiladas</a>; brown rice </div><div><b>Day 31 (W)</b> - grilled steaks; baked potatoes; brussels sprouts </div><div><b>Day 32 (Th)</b> - <a href="https://smittenkitchen.com/2014/04/lamb-meatballs-with-feta-and-lemon/">Lamb Meatballs with Feta and Lemon</a>; brown rice; green beans </div><div><b>Day 33 (F)</b> - dinner out -- <a href="https://www.dcitysmokehouse.com">DCity Smokehouse</a> </div><div><b>Day 34 (Sat) </b>- <a href="https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/quick-pork-ramen-with-carrots-zucchini-and-bok-choy">Quick Pork Ramen with Carrots, Zucchini, and Bok Choy</a> </div><div><b>Day 35 (Sun) </b>- dinner out -- <a href="https://www.perrysam.com">Perry's</a> </div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Day 36 (M)</b> - <a href="http://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/269812/skillet-chicken-parmesan/">Skillet Chicken Parmesean</a>; mixed green salad; veggie spirals </div><div><b>Day 37 (T)</b> - grilled strip steak; roasted veggies</div><div><b>Day 38 (W)</b> - <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/sushi-rice-with-miso-caramel-glazed-salmon">Sushi Rice with Miso-Caramel Glazed Salmon</a></div><div><b>Day 39 (Th)</b> - dinner out -- <a href="https://lebanesetaverna.com">Lebanese Taverna</a> </div><div><b>Day 40 (F)</b> - <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2017/11/all-american-chili-30-days-of-dinner.html">All American Chili</a></div><div><b>Day 41 (Sat) </b>- dinner out </div><div><b>Day 42 (Sun) </b>- <a href="https://www.wellplated.com/healthy-beef-and-broccoli/">Healthy Beef and Broccoli</a> </div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Day 43 (M)</b> - burgers; sweet potato fries; salad </div><div><b>Day 44 (T)</b> - <a href="https://damndelicious.net/2020/03/27/easy-pork-carnitas/">Easy Pork Carnitas</a> </div><div><b>Day 45 (W)</b> - <a href="https://thedefineddish.com/mustard-marinated-flank-steak-arugula-salad-2/">Mustard Marinated Flank Steak</a> </div><div><b>Day 46 (Th)</b> - <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/piri-piri-meatballs">Piri Piri Meatballs</a> </div><div><b>Day 47 (F)</b> - dinner out -- <a href="https://www.littlecocos.com">Little Coco's</a></div><div><b>Day 48 (Sat) </b>- dinner out -- <a href="https://www.meiwahrestaurant.com">Meiwah</a> </div><div><b>Day 49 (Sun) </b>- <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/gochujang-ranch-crispy-chicken-bowl">Gochujang-Ranch Crispy Chicken Bowl</a> </div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Day 50 (M)</b> - Harissa Lamb Pizza; Proscuitto Pizza </div><div><b>Day 51 (T)</b> - <a href="https://sweetcsdesigns.com/one-pot-cheesy-taco-skillet">One Pot Cheesy Taco Skillet</a></div><div><b>Day 52 (W)</b> - <a href="https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/recipes/a54006/easy-homemade-philly-cheesesteak-recipe/">Easy Homemade Philly Cheesesteaks</a> </div><div><b>Day 53 (Th)</b> - Cam's grad dinner! <a href="http://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/269812/skillet-chicken-parmesan/">Skillet Chicken Parmesean</a>; <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/classic-caesar-salad">Classic Caesar Salad</a>; <a href="https://www.halfbakedharvest.com/nonnies-6-ingredient-chocolate-peanut-butter-ice-cream-cake/">Chocolate Peanut Butter Ice Cream Cake</a> </div><div><b>Day 54 (F)</b> - <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2020/04/matzo-ball-soup-and-80-days-of-dinner.html">Matzo Ball Soup</a>; <a href="https://www.busyinbrooklyn.com/tag/honey-challah/">Honey Challah</a> </div><div><b>Day 55 (Sat) </b>- dinner out -- <a href="https://www.sababauptown.com/about">Sababa</a> </div><div><b>Day 56 (Sun) </b>- The Mr.'s burgers; Summer Veggie Pasta Salad (mash up of <a href="https://www.cookingclassy.com/pasta-salad/">Easy Pasta Salad</a> with <a href="https://thewholecook.com/easy-homemade-italian-dressing/">Italian Dressing</a>)</div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Day 57 (M)</b> - dinner out -- <a href="https://morelandstavern.com">Moreland's Tavern</a></div><div><b>Day 58 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.lecremedelacrumb.com/instant-pot-balsamic-pork-tenderloin/">Instant Pot Balsamic Pork Tenderloin</a>; sweet potato; green beans </div><div><b>Day 59 (W)</b> - <a href="https://sweetpeasandsaffron.com/greek-chicken-marinade/">Lemon Garlic Greek Chicken</a>; cauliflower gnocchi; roasted squash </div><div><b>Day 60 (Th)</b> - <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/salmon-with-cucumber-yogurt-sauce-and-carrot-salad">Salmon with Cucumber-Yogurt Sauce and Carrot Salad</a> </div><div><b>Day 61 (F)</b> - sourdough pizza; salad </div><div><b>Day 62 (Sat) </b>- My B-Day! dinner out -- <a href="https://thedabney.com">The Dabney</a> </div><div><b>Day 63 (Sun) </b>- dinner out -- <a href="https://www.littlecocos.com">Little Coco's</a></div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Day 64 (M)</b> - <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/sheet-pan-chicken-meatballs-with-tomatoes-and-chickpeas">Sheet Pan Chicken Meatballs with Tomatoes and Chickpeas</a> </div><div><b>Day 65 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/barbacoa-recipe/">Slow Cooker Barbacoa</a></div><div><b>Day 66 (W)</b> - pan seared salmon; sushi rice; broccoli </div><div><b>Day 67 (Th)</b> - <a href="https://www.cookinglight.com/recipes/grilled-flash-marinated-skirt-steak">Grilled Flash-Marinated Hanger Steak</a>; brown rice; green beans </div><div><b>Day 68 (F)</b> - dinner out <span> </span></div><div><b>Day 69 (Sat) </b>- dinner out </div><div><b>Day 70 (Sun) </b>- dinner out -- <a href="https://www.dcitysmokehouse.com">DCity Smokehouse</a> </div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Day 71 (M)</b> - pesto pasta; chicken sausage; salad </div><div><b>Day 72 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.cookinglight.com/recipes/lemon-garlic-roasted-chicken">Lemon-Garlic Roasted Chicken</a>; couscous; green beans </div><div><b>Day 73 (W)</b> - <a href="https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/quick-pork-ramen-with-carrots-zucchini-and-bok-choy">Quick Pork Ramen with Carrots, Zucchini, and Bok Choy</a> </div><div><b>Day 74 (Th)</b> - <a href="https://tastythin.com/rosemary-dijon-turkey-kabobs/">Rosemary Dijon Turkey Kabobs</a>; <a href="https://www.dinneratthezoo.com/mediterranean-farro-salad/">Farro Salad with Feta</a> </div><div><b>Day 75 (F)</b> - sourdough pizza; salad </div><div><b>Day 76 (Sat) </b>- dinner out -- <a href="https://www.qbypeterchang.com">Q by Peter Chang</a> </div><div><b>Day 77 (Sun) </b>- dinner out -- Five Guys </div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Day 78 (M)</b> - <a href="https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1012984-chicken-teriyaki">Chicken Teriyaki</a>; sushi rice; steamed broccoli </div><div><b>Day 79 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/mojo-meatballs">Mojo Meatballs</a>; grilled veggies; tostones </div><div><b>Day 80 (W)</b> - pan seared salmon; orzo with veggies and feta; green beans </div><div><b>Day 81 (Th)</b> - Lamb Bolognese; caesar salad </div><div><b>Day 82 (F)</b> - dinner out </div><div><b>Day 83 (Sat) </b>- grilled burgers </div><div><b>Day 84 (Sun) </b>- dinner out -- <a href="https://lebanesetaverna.com">Lebanese Taverna</a> </div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Day 85 (M)</b> - pesto pasta; grilled sausages; caesar salad </div><div><b>Day 86 (T)</b> - sourdough pizza; salad </div><div><b>Day 87 (W)</b> - <a href="https://damndelicious.net/2013/07/07/korean-beef-bowl/">Korean Beef Bowl</a> </div><div><b>Day 88 (Th)</b> - dinner out -- <a href="https://www.perrysam.com">Perry's</a> </div><div><b>Day 89 (F)</b> - <a href="https://livinglovingpaleo.com/balsamic-chicken/">Grilled Balsamic Chicken</a>; roasted broccoli; sweet potatoes with pesto </div><div><b>Day 90 (Sat) </b>- dinner out -- <a href="http://www.zenebechdc.com">Zenebach</a> </div><div><b>Day 91 (Sun) </b>- dinner out -- <a href="https://www.joesstonecrab.com">Joe's Stone Crab</a> </div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Day 92 (M)</b> - pasta with leftover grilled chicken; grilled vegetables </div><div><b>Day 93 (T)</b> - burgers; salad; sweet potato fries </div><div><b>Day 94 (W)</b> - sourdough pizza; salad </div><div><b>Day 95 (Th)</b> - dinner out -- <a href="https://www.nandosperiperi.com/order-online?gclid=CjwKCAjwnef6BRAgEiwAgv8mQdFzvFLBGX8zNBsPeRsT6dHIn8N5mud7ULKRQ3MeTg9nGSO99BzHXxoCvA4QAvD_BwE">Nando's</a> </div><div><b>Day 96 (F)</b> - dinner out </div><div><br /></div><div>(we went to my in laws in New Jersey for a few weeks, so there were a bunch of dinners there that I didn't cook) </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Day 97 (Sat) </b>- shrimp scampi </div><div><b>Day 98 (Sun) </b>- <a href="https://www.cookinglight.com/recipes/grilled-flash-marinated-skirt-steak">Grilled Flash-Marinated Hanger Steak</a></div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Day 99 (M)</b> - sourdough pizza </div><div><b>Day 100 (T)</b> - grilled burgers </div><div><b>Day 101 (W)</b> - grilled salmon and sushi rice </div><div><b>Day 102 (Th)</b> - blue crabs + oysters -- Barbera Seafood Market</div><div><b>Day 103 (F)</b> - grilled chicken; caesar salad </div><div><b>Day 104 (Sat) </b>- Lamb Bolognese </div><div><b>Day 105 (Sun) </b>- grilled chicken; tuna; sushi rice</div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Day 106 (M)</b> - <a href="https://damndelicious.net/2020/03/27/easy-pork-carnitas/">Easy Pork Carnitas</a> </div><div><b>Day 107 (T)</b> - grilled steak; twice baked potatoes </div><div><b>Day 108 (W)</b> - rotisserie chicken; couscous; salad </div><div><b>Day 109 (Th)</b> - burgers; fries; salad </div><div><b>Day 110 (F)</b> - dinner out </div><div><b>Day 111 (Sat) </b>- <a href="https://www.thespruceeats.com/pesto-meatballs-480692">Pesto Meatballs</a> </div><div><b>Day 112 (Sun) </b>- chicken soup and grilled cheese </div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Day 113 (M)</b> - <a href="https://sweetcsdesigns.com/one-pot-cheesy-taco-skillet">One Pot Cheesy Taco Skillet</a></div><div><b>Day 114 (T)</b> - dinner out -- <a href="http://www.tonysbaltimoregrillac.com">Tony's Baltimore Grill</a> </div><div><br /></div><div>(Back home!)</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Day 115 (W)</b> - pesto pasta; grilled Italian chicken; green beans</div><div><b>Day 116 (Th)</b> - <a href="https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/grilled-halibut-with-lemon-basil-vinaigrette-649">Grilled Halibut with Lemon-Basil Vinaigrette</a>; couscous; roasted broccoli and tomatoes </div><div><b>Day 117 (F)</b> - burgers; salad </div><div><b>Day 118 (Sat) </b>- dinner out -- <a href="https://www.ebbitt.com">Old Ebbitt Grill</a> </div><div><b>Day 119 (Sun) </b>- dinner out -- <a href="http://www.theblackwallhitch.com">Blackwall Hitch</a></div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Day 120 (M)</b> - <a href="https://www.cookinglight.com/recipes/grilled-flash-marinated-skirt-steak">Grilled Flash-Marinated Hanger Steak</a></div><div><b>Day 121 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/quick-pork-ramen-with-carrots-zucchini-and-bok-choy">Quick Pork Ramen with Carrots, Zucchini, and Bok Choy</a></div><div><b>Day 122 (W)</b> - dinner out -- <a href="https://www.littlecocos.com">Little Coco's</a></div><div><b>Day 123 (Th)</b> - grilled Italian chicken; salad </div><div><b>Day 124 (F)</b> - <a href="https://www.halfbakedharvest.com/weeknight-sticky-ginger-sesame-chicken-meatballs/">Weeknight Sticky Ginger Sesame Chicken Meatballs</a> </div><div><b>Day 125 (Sat) </b>- dinner out -- <a href="https://www.dukesgrocery.com">Duke's Counter</a> </div><div><b>Day 126 (Sun) </b>- dinner out -- <a href="https://morelandstavern.com">Moreland's Tavern</a> </div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Day 127 (M)</b> - grilled filet mignon </div><div><b>Day 128 (T)</b> - <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2020/04/matzo-ball-soup-and-80-days-of-dinner.html">Matzo Ball Soup</a></div><div><b>Day 129 (W)</b> - dinner out - <a href="https://www.pi-pizza.com">Pi Pizza</a> </div><div><b>Day 130 (Th)</b> - <a href="https://mommyshomecooking.com/easy-peri-peri-chicken-breasts/">Easy Peri Peri Chicken Breasts</a></div><div><b>Day 131 (F)</b> - <a href="https://www.thespruceeats.com/vegetarian-lasagna-rolls-with-pesto-3378505">Vegetarian Lasagna Rolls with Pesto</a> </div><div><b>Day 132 (Sat) </b>- dinner out -- <a href="https://www.littlecocos.com">Little Coco's</a></div><div><b>Day 133 (Sun) </b>- dinner out -- <a href="https://lediplomatedc.com">Le Diplomate</a> </div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Day 134 (M)</b> - Slow Cooker Chili </div><div><b>Day 135 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/grilled-king-salmon-meyer-lemon-relish">Grilled King Salmon with Meyer Lemon Relish</a>; cauliflower gnocchi; green beans </div><div><b>Day 136 (W)</b> - Sunbasket Greek Meatballs with Tomato-Cucumber Salad </div><div><b>Day 137 (Th)</b> - Sunbasket Catalan Chicken with Green Romesco and Spanish Green Beans </div><div><b>Day 138 (F)</b> - Maryland crab dinner on the Eastern Shore </div><div><b>Day 139 (Sat) </b>- steak dinner on the Eastern Shore </div><div><b>Day 140 (Sun) </b>- <a href="https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/slow-cooker-crispy-chicken-carnitas/">Slow Cooker Crispy Chicken Carnitas</a> </div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Day 141 (M)</b> - dinner out -- <a href="https://www.meiwahrestaurant.com">Meiwah</a> </div><div><b>Day 142 (T)</b> - <a href="http://www.dinneralovestory.com/back-pocket-bolognese/">Back Pocket Bolognese</a> </div><div><b>Day 143 (W)</b> - grilled sausages; baked potato </div><div><b>Day 144 (Th)</b> - dinner out -- <a href="https://www.littlecocos.com">Little Coco's</a></div><div><b>Day 145 (F)</b> - dinner out in NJ -- <a href="https://www.angelosfairmounttavern.com">Angelo's</a> </div><div><b>Day 146 (Sat) </b>- grilled BBQ chicken </div><div><b>Day 147 (Sun) </b>- the Mr.'s burgers </div></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><ol style="background-position: 0px 0px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(96, 96, 96); color: #606060; counter-reset: li 0; font-size: 20px; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 25px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"></ol></div>Not-So-SAHMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01449442571749036593noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7050866223284067912.post-572072629693364392020-04-15T16:10:00.001-04:002020-04-15T16:10:41.604-04:00Matzo Ball Soup and 80+ Days of Dinner <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUI7z2gMJah2EcGDvmYV9kDlu2yth492242U45F63CM-KxeOGnrwtL8h7kfDlc0kFMlE6CuZJvhvwdT-7ldEtHKrj3qAG_5zx3JLQnn5sU1wr5KfVjLd6olAj-__buQgCWyVz_RQKX5iGx/s1600/matzoh+soup-01-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUI7z2gMJah2EcGDvmYV9kDlu2yth492242U45F63CM-KxeOGnrwtL8h7kfDlc0kFMlE6CuZJvhvwdT-7ldEtHKrj3qAG_5zx3JLQnn5sU1wr5KfVjLd6olAj-__buQgCWyVz_RQKX5iGx/s1600/matzoh+soup-01-2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br />
To say that a lot has changed since I posted last would be an understatement. We're going on our fifth week self-isolating at our house and I've been cooking like a maniac (both because everyone is now home for every meal and because it's a great outlet for me). And I've apparently taken up baking. It started out with Cam wanting to bake more cakes and then I hopped aboard the sourdough train when I was able to scoop some starter from <a href="https://www.instagram.com/chefjohannahellrigl/?hl=en">Chef Johanna Hellrigl</a> who has generously given out an insane amount of starter to folks quarantined in DC. I'm still working on making an actual loaf of sourdough bread, but I've been crushing the discard recipes!<br />
<br />
Most of these Days of Dinner are from before we started staying home, but the last four weeks are Quarantine Meals! So the recipe I'm sharing this time is straight comfort food. It's a lot of directions, but honestly, not at all difficult. So don't get overwhelmed. I usually balk at any recipe that calls for a whole chicken, but there's really not a way to screw this one up. And it's so worth it.<br />
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I highly recommend splitting the work over two days. First make the chicken stock. Refrigerate it and then you can skim the schmaltz (chicken fat) the next day to use in making the matzo balls. If you have enough stock pots, make an extra batch of stock because it freezes well and you can save the schmaltz in the refrigerator for the matzo balls when you're ready.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Matzo Ball Soup</u> </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(slightly adapted from <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/matzo-ball-soup">Bon Appetit</a>)</div>
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<b><u>Ingredients</u></b><br />
<b>Chicken stock</b><br />
- 1, 4-5 lb chicken, cut into 8 pieces<br />
- 1 lb chicken wings, necks, and/or backs<br />
- 2 large yellow onions, unpeeled, quartered<br />
- 6 celery stalks, cut into 1" pieces<br />
- 4 large carrots, peeled, cut into 1" pieces<br />
- 1 large parsnip, peeled, cut into 1" pieces<br />
- 1 large shallot, quartered<br />
- 1 head of garlic, halved crosswise<br />
- 6 sprigs flat-leaf parsley<br />
- 1 tbsp black peppercorns<br />
<br />
<b>Matzo ball mixture</b><br />
- 3 large eggs, beaten to blend<br />
- 3/4 cup matzo meal<br />
- 1/4 cup schmaltz (chicken fat), melted<br />
- 3 tbsp club soda<br />
- 1 1/4 tsp kosher salt<br />
<br />
<b>Assembly</b><br />
- 2 small carrots, peeled, sliced 1/4" thick on a diagonal<br />
- Kosher salt<br />
- 2 tbsp coarsley chopped fresh dill<br />
- coarsley ground fresh black pepper<br />
<br />
<b><u>Directions</u></b><br />
<b>Chicken Stock</b><br />
1. Bring all ingredients and 12 cups cold water to a boil in a very large (at least 12-qt.) stockpot. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until chicken breasts are cooked through, about 20 minutes.<br />
<br />
2. Transfer breasts to a plate (remaining chicken parts are strictly for stock). Let breasts cool slightly, then remove meat and return bones to stock. Shred meat. Let cool, tightly wrap, and chill.<br />
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3. Continue to simmer stock until reduced by one-third, about 2 hours. Strain chicken stock through a fine-mesh sieve into a large saucepan (or airtight container, if not using right away); discard solids. You should have about 8 cups.<br />
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You can refrigerate stock for up to two days. If you're keeping it for longer, freeze it, including the shredded chicken breast.<br />
<br />
<b>Matzo Balls</b><br />
Mix eggs, matzo meal, schmaltz, club soda, ands alt in a medium bowl (mixture will resemble wet sand; it will firm up as it rests). Cover and chill at least 2 hours. You can refrigerate it for up to a day.<br />
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<b>Assembly</b><br />
1. Bring chicken stock to a boil in a large saucepan. Add carrots; season with salt. Reduce heat and simmer until carrots are tender, 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat, add reserved breast meat (if you didn't freeze stock and already add), and cover. Set soup aside.<br />
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2. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Scoop out 2-tablespoonful portions matzo ball mixture and, using wet hands, gently roll into balls.<br />
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3. Add matzo balls to water and reduce heat so water is at a gentle simmer (too much bouncing around will break them up). Cover pot and cook matzo balls until cooked through and starting to sink, 20-25 minutes.<br />
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4. Using a slotted spoon, transfer matzo balls to bowls. Ladle soup over, top with dill, and season with pepper.<br />
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* * *</div>
<br />
<b>Day 1 (W)</b> - brinner -- egg tacos + salad<br />
<b>Day 2 (Th)</b> - <a href="https://tastythin.com/whole30-bruschetta-grilled-chicken/">Bruschetta Grilled Chicken</a>; farro<br />
<b>Day 3 (F)</b> - <a href="http://www.dinneralovestory.com/back-pocket-bolognese/">Backpocket Bolognese</a><br />
<b>Day 4 (Sat)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 5 (Sun)</b> - dinner out<br />
<br />
<b>Day 6 (M)</b> - NY strip steak; green beans; salad<br />
<b>Day 7 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.jocooks.com/recipes/greek-lamb-burgers/">Greek Lamb Burgers</a>; cauliflower gnocchi<br />
<b>Day 8 (W)</b> - leftovers<br />
<b>Day 9 (Th)</b> - Matzo Ball Soup<br />
<b>Day 10 (F)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 11 (Sat)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 12 (Sun)</b> - Superbowl! ordered in<br />
<br />
<b>Day 13 (M)</b> - <a href="https://kalynskitchen.com/crockpot-beef-stew-recipe-with-olives/">Garlic Lover's Crockpot Beef Stew</a><br />
<b>Day 14 (T)</b> - <a href="https://damndelicious.net/2019/08/28/greek-chicken-kabobs/">Greek Chicken Kabobs</a>; pesto cauliflower gnocchi; roasted broccoli<br />
<b>Day 15 (W)</b> - <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/sushi-rice-with-miso-caramel-glazed-salmon">Sushi Rice with Miso-Caramel Glazed Salmon</a> (a new family fave)<br />
<b>Day 16 (Th)</b> - leftovers<br />
<b>Day 17 (F)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 18 (Sat)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 19 (Sun)</b> - <a href="https://www.feastingathome.com/grilled-steak-tacos-with-cilantro-chimichurri-sauce/">Grilled Steak Tacos with Cilantro Chimichurri Sauce</a><br />
<br />
<b>Day 20 (M)</b> - <a href="https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1016833-spaghetti-and-drop-meatballs-with-tomato-sauce?action=click&module=Collection%20Page%20Recipe%20Card&region=Easy%20and%20Delicious%20Pastas%20to%20Make%20Tonight&pgType=collection&rank=1">Spaghetti and Drop Meatballs with Tomato Sauce</a><br />
<b>Day 21 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/cheesy-stuffed-peppers/">Cheesy Stuffed Peppers</a><br />
<b>Day 22 (W)</b> - <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/halibut-with-spicy-sausage-tomatoes-and-rosemary">Halibut with Spicy Sausage, Tomatoes, and Rosemary</a><br />
<b>Day 23 (Th)</b> - <a href="https://www.lemonblossoms.com/blog/grilled-chicken-with-the-best-balsamic-herb-marinade/">Balsamic Grilled Chicken</a><br />
<b>Day 24 (F)</b> - grilled salmon; carrots; brown rice<br />
<b>Day 25 (Sat)</b> - brinner -- eggs and TJ scallion cakes<br />
<b>Day 26 (Sun)</b> - dinner out<br />
<br />
<b>Day 27 (M)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 28 (T)</b> - <a href="http://www.dinneralovestory.com/back-pocket-bolognese/">Backpocket Bolognese</a><br />
<b>Day 29 (W)</b> - <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2017/11/all-american-chili-30-days-of-dinner.html">All American Chili</a><br />
<b>Day 30 (Th)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 31 (F)</b> - dinner out in Nebraska for my nephew's wedding<br />
<b>Day 32 (Sat)</b> - dinner out in Nebraska for my nephew's wedding<br />
<b>Day 33 (Sun)</b> - dinner out<br />
<br />
<b>Day 34 (M)</b> - <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2018/06/easy-steak-fajitas-60-days-of-dinner.html">Easy Steak Fajitas</a>; roasted cauliflower; brown rice<br />
<b>Day 35 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.wellplated.com/chicken-enchilada-skillet/">Chicken Enchilada Skillet</a><br />
<b>Day 36 (W)</b> - <a href="https://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/slow-cooker-barbecued-pulled-pork">Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork</a><br />
<b>Day 37 (Th)</b> - grilled Sabatino's sausages<br />
<b>Day 38 (F)</b> - Gail Simmons' Greek Style Lamb Meatballs over Orzo from <a href="https://amzn.to/3aii7JS">Bring it Home</a><br />
<b>Day 39 (Sat)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 40 (Sun)</b> - dinner out<br />
<br />
<b>Day 41 (M)</b> - Matzo Ball Soup<br />
<b>Day 42 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.halfbakedharvest.com/20-minute-udon-noodles/">Weeknight 20 Minute Spicy Udon Noodles</a><br />
<b>Day 43 (W)</b> - <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/sushi-rice-with-miso-caramel-glazed-salmon">Sushi Rice with Miso-Caramel Glazed Salmon</a><br />
<b>Day 44 (Th)</b> - <a href="https://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/slow-cooker-meatballs-in-tomato-sauce">Slow Cooker Meatballs in Tomato Sauce</a>; cauliflower gnocchi<br />
<b>Day 45 (F)</b> - <a href="https://www.howsweeteats.com/2016/04/greek-marinated-flank-steak-and-my-favorite-party-hummus-plate/">Greek Marinated Flank Steak</a>; sweet potato fries; salad<br />
<b>Day 46 (Sat)</b> - DIY pizzas with store-bought dough<br />
<b>Day 47 (Sun)</b> - <a href="https://www.halfbakedharvest.com/california-chicken-veggie-avocado-and-rice-bowls/">California Chicken, Veggie, Avocado, and Brown Rice Bowls</a><br />
<br />
<b>Day 48 (M)</b> - Gail Simmons' Greek Style Lamb Meatballs over Orzo from <a href="https://amzn.to/3aii7JS">Bring it Home</a> (I'd made a double batch and frozen one!)<br />
<b>Day 49 (T)</b> - grilled Sabatino's sausages; <a href="https://www.thekitchn.com/recipe-crispy-sheet-pan-gnocchi-and-veggies-247360">Crispy Sheet Pan Gnocchi and Veggies</a><br />
<b>Day 50 (W)</b> - Costco chicken skewers (these were not good); cauliflower gnocchi; salad<br />
<b>Day 51 (Th)</b> - leftovers<br />
<b>Day 52 (F)</b> - out<br />
<b>Day 53 (Sat)*</b> - <a href="https://www.wellplated.com/flank-steak-tacos/">Flank Steak Tacos</a><br />
<b>Day 54 (Sun)</b> - leftovers<br />
<br />
<b>Day 55 (M)</b> - take out from <a href="https://www.toasttab.com/morelands-tavern-5501-14th-st-nw/v3">our fave neighborhood spot Moreland's Tavern</a> -- in addition to running a regular take out during quarantine, you can also pick up beer + cocktails and participate in their new general store boxes. We are trying to order at least once/week from local restaurants to help support them through this difficult time. And we routinely grab a growler or two from Moreland's even if we are ordering food from another spot.<br />
<b>Day 56 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.rachaelraymag.com/recipe/chicken-pasta">Chicken Pasta</a>; salad<br />
<b>Day 57 (W)</b> - <a href="https://www.cookinglight.com/recipes/grilled-flash-marinated-skirt-steak">Grilled Flash-Marinated Skirt Steak</a>; grilled vegetables; orzo<br />
<b>Day 58 (Th)</b> - <a href="http://www.thesugarhit.com/2016/05/chipotle-pulled-pork-tacos-pineapple-salsa.html">Chipotle Pulled Pork Tacos</a>; TJs Mexican corn; brown rice<br />
<b>Day 59 (F)</b> - Matzo Ball Soup (I told you we've been eating it a lot!)<br />
<b>Day 60 (Sat)</b> - take out from <a href="https://www.tigerforkdc.com/">Tiger Fork</a>, including cocktails!<br />
<b>Day 61 (Sun)</b> - <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2017/11/all-american-chili-30-days-of-dinner.html">All American Chili</a><br />
<br />
<b>Day 62 (M)</b> - take out from <a href="https://www.littlecocos.com/">Little Coco's</a>, who is also doing groceries and a special Sunday Supper during quarantine.<br />
<b>Day 63 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/extra-juicy-turkey-burgers">Extra-Juicy Turkey Burgers</a> (DELISH); roasted broccoli; leftover grains<br />
<b>Day 64 (W)</b> - Spring Break Thanksgiving because why the hell not: I usually make just a turkey breast for Thanksgiving but used this as a low-stakes opportunity to do a full bird. I thought this <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/very-classic-dry-brined-roast-turkey">Dry-Brined Roast Turkey</a> was amazing and I still had one frozen container of <a href="https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=caramelized+onion+and+bacon+gravy&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8">Caramelized Onion and Bacon Gravy</a> left from actual Thanksgiving to serve with it. I also made a yummy <a href="https://thestayathomechef.com/easy-green-bean-casserole/">Easy Green Bean Casserole</a> and <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/make-ahead-mashed-potatoes">Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes</a> (I didn't make them ahead, but you could). And we served up boxed stuffing, canned cranberries, store-bought cornbread, and store-bought apple pie for dessert.<br />
<b>Day 65 (Th)</b> - DIY pizzas with store-bought dough<br />
<b>Day 66 (F)</b> - take out from <a href="http://www.gravitasdc.com/">Gravitas</a> (amazing)<br />
<b>Day 67 (Sat)</b> - <a href="https://www.seriouseats.com/recipes/2020/03/cup-noodle-fried-rice.html">Instant Ramen Fried Rice</a>; <a href="https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/chicken-broccoli-recipe/">12-Minute Chicken and Broccoli</a><br />
<b>Day 68 (Sun)</b> - Mr. Not-So-SAHM made his famous burgers and taught Kane how to make them too; salad; tater tots<br />
<br />
<b>Day 70 (M)</b> - <a href="https://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/pasta-sausage-basil-and-mustard">Pasta with Sausage, Basil and Mustard</a>; <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/easy-no-knead-focaccia">Shockingly Easy No-Knead Focaccia</a><br />
<b>Day 71 (T)</b> - <a href="https://damndelicious.net/2015/06/22/easy-grilled-chicken/">Easy Grilled Chicken</a>; grilled zucchini and squash; brown rice<br />
<b>Day 72 (W)</b> - <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/cold-roast-salmon-with-smashed-green-bean-salad">Cold Roast Salmon with Lemony Yogurt Sauce</a>; green beans; farro<br />
<b>Day 73 (Th)</b> - grilled New York strip steak; roasted cauliflower<br />
<b>Day 74 (F)</b> - grilled sausages; waffle fries; <a href="https://barefootcontessa.com/recipes/saut%C3%A9ed-shredded-brussels-sprouts">Sauteed Shredded Brussels Sprouts </a><br />
<b>Day 75 (Sat)</b> - take out from <a href="https://bluejacketdc.com/">Blue Jacket</a>, including cocktails. The <a href="https://neighborhoodrestaurantgroup.com/">Neighborhood Restaurant Group</a> is also running a pantry and prepared meals delivery.<br />
<b>Day 76 (Sun)</b> - Trader Joe's Pollo Asada; Mexican corn; rice<br />
<br />
<b>Day 77 (M)</b> - <a href="https://www.thekitchn.com/turkey-meatballs-22931916">Turkey Meatballs</a>; cauliflower gnocchi; roasted vegetables<br />
<b>Day 78 (T)</b> - DIY pizzas with store-bought dough; salad<br />
<b>Day 79 (W)</b> - Passover (not kosher): Matzo Ball Soup; <a href="https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1020960-tangy-braised-short-ribs">Tangy Braised Short Ribs</a>; <a href="https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1020957-apples-with-honey-and-crushed-walnuts?action=click&module=RecentlyViewed&pgType=recipe-page&region=Recently%20Viewed&rank=1">Apples with Honey and Crushed Walnuts</a>; <a href="https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1020958-garlicky-buttered-carrots?action=click&module=RecentlyViewed&pgType=recipe-page&region=Recently%20Viewed&rank=2">Garlicky, Buttered Carrots</a>; store-bought Potatoes Gratin; ice cream sundaes.<br />
<b>Day 80 (Th)</b> - <a href="http://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/262792/chicken-shawarma-with-yogurt-sauce/">Chicken Shawarma with Yogurt Sauce</a>; couscous; leftover carrots<br />
<b>Day 81 (F)</b> - <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2017/11/all-american-chili-30-days-of-dinner.html">All American Chili</a>; <a href="https://www.kingarthurflour.com/recipes/buttery-sourdough-sandwich-biscuits-recipe">Buttery Sourdough Sandwich Biscuits</a><br />
<b>Day 82 (Sat)</b> - take out from <a href="https://www.chikodc.com/">Chiko</a> (SO good)<br />
<b>Day 83 (Sun)</b> - take out from <a href="http://allpurposedc.com/">All Purpose</a> -- just needed a take out double-header this week!<br />
<br />
*self-isolation begins! <br />
<br />Not-So-SAHMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01449442571749036593noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7050866223284067912.post-79782162487938261152020-01-22T09:06:00.001-05:002020-02-12T20:07:59.613-05:00Beef Ragu over Cauliflower Gnocchi + 140(ish) Days of Dinner <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is the first year in a long time that we haven't done an official January Whole30. I really liked the macro coutning and intermittent fasting program I was doing throughout last summer, but had just really fallen off through the fall and holidays. So I decided to go back to that. We briefly attempted a dry January at least, but quickly adjusted that to dry weekdays and I've been holding to that.<br />
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Nevertheless, many of the recipes I cook are still fairly clean (free of dairy products, legumes, and grains), but I add some of those in as sides now. You'll see lots of dinners out and lots of repeats and I knew in my head that we eat broccoli a lot, but OMG we eat broccoli A LOT. It's easy, tasty, and everyone always eats a ton of it. So ....<br />
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For the top recipe, I'm sharing one of our favorite cold-day dishes. Although this Beef Ragu takes some time to cook, the hands on time is so minimal that I can still get it done on a weekday -- I just have to remember to put it in the oven or slow cooker earlier in the day. I serve mine over Trader Joe's cauliflower gnocchi and the kids often have theirs over pasta or polenta. Some extra roasted veggies on the side and you are set!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Beef Ragu over Cauliflower Gnocchi</u> </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(slightly adapted from <a href="https://simply-delicious-food.com/beef-ragu-parmesan-gnocchi/">Simply Delicious</a>)</div>
<br />
<b>Ingredients</b><br />
- 2 lb chuck roast<br />
- 2 red onions, peeled and roughly chopped<br />
- 1, 14.5 ounce can of diced tomatoes<br />
- 1 tbsp tomato paste<br />
- 2 tsp sugar (or sub honey)<br />
- 6 garlic cloves peeled, left whole<br />
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary<br />
- 5 sprigs fresh thyme<br />
- 2 bay leaves<br />
- 2 tbsp soy sauce<br />
- 1 cup red wine<br />
- 2 cups beef stock<br />
- salt and pepper to taste<br />
<br />
- frozen Cauliflower Gnocchi<br />
- parmesean cheese and parsley for serving (optional)<br />
<br />
<b>Directions</b><br />
1. Preheat oven to 325F. Place beef, onions, tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, garlic, herbs, and soy sauce into a dutch oven. Lightly mix. Add wine and stock and cover.<br />
<br />
2. Place in oven and cook for 4 - 5 hours until meat is tender and pulls apart easily. Shred meat with two forks. Then turn oven up to 425F and return ragu to oven to cook for another 20 minutes. If you're roasting veggies for a side dish, I put these in the oven now as well.<br />
<br />
3. Cook cauliflower gnocchi. Spoon ragu over gnocchi, top with parmesean cheese and parsley before serving.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
* * *</div>
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<b>Day 1 (M)</b> - <a href="http://Beef Ragu over Cauliflower Gnocchi (slightly adapted from Simply Delicious) Ingredients - 2 lb chuck roast - 2 red onions, peeled and roughly chopped - 1, 14.5 ounce can of diced tomatoes - 1 tbsp tomato paste - 2 tsp sugar (or sub honey) - 6 garlic cloves peeled, left whole - 2 sprigs fresh rosemary - 5 sprigs fresh thyme - 2 bay leaves - 2 tbsp soy sauce - 1 cup red wine - 2 cups beef stock - salt and pepper to taste - frozen Cauliflower Gnocchi - parmesean cheese and parsley for serving (optional) Directions 1. Preheat oven to 325F. Place beef, onions, tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, garlic, herbs, and soy sauce into a dutch oven. Lightly mix. Add wine and stock and cover. 2. Place in oven and cook for 4 - 5 hours until meat is tender and pulls apart easily. Shred meat with two forks. Then turn oven up to 425F and return rags to oven to cook for another 20 minutes. If you're roasting veggies for a side dish, I put these in the oven now as well. 3. Cook cauliflower gnocchi. Spoon ragu over gnocchi, top with parmesean cheese and parsley before serving. * * * Day 1 (M) - Back-Pocket Bolognese Day 2 (T) - Day 3 (W) - Day 4 (Th) - Day 5 (F) - Day 6 (Sat) - Day 7 (Sun) - Day 8 (M) - Day 9 (T) - Day 10 (W) - Day 11 (Th) - Day 12 (F) - Day 13 (Sat) - Day 14 (Sun) - Day 15 (M) - Day 16 (T) - Day 17 (W) - Day 18 (Th) - Day 19 (F) - Day 20 (Sat) - Day 21 (Sun) - Day 23 (M) - Day 23 (T) - Day 24 (W) - Day 25 (Th) - Day 26 (F) - Day 27 (Sat) - Day 28 (Sun) - Day 29 (M) - Day 30 (T) - Day 31 (W) - Day 32 (Th) - Day 33 (F) - Day 34 (Sat) - Day 35 (Sun) - Day 36 (M) - Day 37 (T) - Day 38 (W) - Day 39 (Th) - Day 40 (F) - Day 41 (Sat) - Day 42 (Sun) - Day 43 (M) - Day 44 (T) - Day 45 (W) - Day 46 (Th) - Day 47 (F) - Day 48 (Sat) - Day 49 (Sun) - Day 50 (M) - Day 51 (T) - Day 52 (W) - Day 53 (Th) - Day 54 (F) - Day 55 (Sat) - Day 56 (Sun) - Day 57 (M) - Day 58 (T) - Day 59 (W) - Day 60 (Th) - Day 61 (F) - Day 62 (Sat) - Day 63 (Sun) - Day 64 (M) - Day 65 (T) - Day 66 (W) - Day 67 (Th) - Day 68 (F) - Day 69 (Sat) - Day 70 (Sun) - Day 71 (M) - Day 72 (T) - Day 73 (W) - Day 74 (Th) - Day 75 (F) - Day 76 (Sat) - Day 77 (Sun) - Day 78 (M) - Day 79 (T) - Day 80 (W) - Day 81 (Th) - Day 82 (F) - Day 83 (Sat) - Day 84 (Sun) - Day 85 (M) - Day 86 (T) - Beef Ragu over Cauliflower Gnocchi; roasted broccoli">Back-Pocket Bolognese</a><br />
<b>Day 2 (T)</b> - <a href="https://ourbalancedbowl.com/loaded-turkey-taco-bowls/">Loaded Turkey Taco Bowls</a><br />
<b>Day 3 (W)</b> - <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/skirt-steak-with-chimichurri-sauce">Skirt Steak with Chimichurri Sauce</a>; brown rice; roasted cauliflower <br />
<b>Day 4 (Th)</b> - <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2017/11/all-american-chili-30-days-of-dinner.html">All American Chili</a><br />
<b>Day 5 (F)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 6 (Sat)</b> - <a href="https://www.wellplated.com/whole30-salmon/">Whole30 Baked Salmon with Creamy Avocado Sauce</a>; Israeli couscous; roasted corn with cotija cheese<br />
<b>Day 7 (Sun)</b> - Grilled Paleo Basil and Cracked Pepper Sausages (I can't get these through Instacart at Costco anymore and it's making me bananas -- everyone loves them!)<br />
<br />
<b>Day 8 (M)</b> - <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2019/09/baked-salmon-cakes-140-days-of-dinner.html">Baked Salmon Cakes</a>; roasted veggies; black beans<br />
<b>Day 9 (T)</b> - <a href="https://thefamilyfreezer.com/2017/07/26/shredded-crockpot-bbq-pork-recipe/">Shredded Crockpot BBQ Pork</a><br />
<b>Day 10 (W)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 11 (Th)</b> - leftovers<br />
<b>Day 12 (F)</b> - <a href="https://sweetcsdesigns.com/one-pot-cheesy-taco-skillet/">One Pot Cheesy Taco Skillet</a> <br />
<b>Day 13 (Sat)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 14 (Sun)</b> - <a href="https://ourbalancedbowl.com/ground-chicken-tacos-with-chipotle-crema/">Ground Chicken Tacos with Chipotle Crema</a>; brown rice; Mexican street corn<br />
<br />
<b>Day 15 (M)</b> - <a href="https://www.noracooks.com/marinated-tofu/">Stiry Fry Tofu</a>; veggies; brown rice<br />
<b>Day 16 (T)</b> - grilled New York strip steak; cauliflower gnocchi; roasted broccoli<br />
<b>Day 17 (W)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 18 (Th)</b> - <a href="https://thefamilyfreezer.com/2012/12/06/freezer-to-slow-cooker-chicken-chili/">Freezer-to-Slow Cooker Chicken Chili</a><br />
<b>Day 19 (F)</b> - <a href="https://bucknakedkitchen.com/blogs/recipes/thanksgiving-turkey-meatballs">Thanksgiving Turkey Meatballs</a><br />
<b>Day 20 (Sat)</b> - Trader Joe's falafel; carrot spirals; couscous; pita<br />
<b>Day 21 (Sun)</b> - <a href="https://www.gordonramsay.com/gr/recipes/teriyaki-salmon/">Teriyaki Salmon</a>; jasmine rice; roasted broccoli<br />
<br />
<b>Day 23 (M)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 23 (T)</b> - <a href="https://thefamilyfreezer.com/2016/07/20/crockpot-korean-beef-lettuce-wraps/">Crockpot Korean Beef</a> - served ours as buddha bowls with brown rice as quick-pickled carrots and radishes<br />
<b>Day 24 (W)</b> - The Mr.'s birthday dinner! <a href="https://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/panko-chicken-parmesan">Panko Chicken Parmesean</a>; caesar salad; pasta; and <a href="https://abeautifulmess.com/2012/07/frozen-chocolate-peanut-butter-pie.html">Frozen Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie</a>!<br />
<b>Day 25 (Th)</b> - leftovers<br />
<b>Day 26 (F)</b> - flank steak with <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/skirt-steak-with-chimichurri-sauce">Chimichurri</a>; roasted potatoes; roasted cauliflower<br />
<b>Day 27 (Sat)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 28 (Sun)</b> - dinner out<br />
<br />
<b>Day 29 (M)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 30 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.noracooks.com/marinated-tofu/">Stiry Fry Tofu</a>; veggies; quinoa<br />
<b>Day 31 (W)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 32 (Th)</b> - <a href="https://thefamilyfreezer.com/2015/08/31/make-ahead-freezer-chicken-fajitas/">Make Ahead Freezer Chicken Fajitas</a>; brown rice<br />
<b>Day 33 (F)</b> - polenta with Trader Joe's Bolognese<br />
<b>Day 34 (Sat)</b> - dinner party at our house catered by the awesome <a href="https://www.sarassavories.net/">Sara's Savories</a> -- Red Wine + Herb Braised Short Ribs; Maple Dijon Herb Seared Salmon; Garlic and Lemon Sauteed Spinach; Roasted Potatoes with Olive Oil and Thyme. I made a <a href="https://www.thekitchn.com/easy-chocolate-chip-skillet-cookie-258334">Deep Dish Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie</a> which was fab!<br />
<b>Day 35 (Sun)</b> - dinner out<br />
<br />
<b>Day 36 (M)</b> - <a href="https://damndelicious.net/2017/08/27/freezer-chicken-enchiladas/">Chicken Enchiladas </a>(I didn't freeze these because that seemed to cause lots of issues for people)<br />
<b>Day 37 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/big-batch-meatballs-and-red-sauce-3364762">Big Batch Meatballs</a> but used this <a href="https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/classic-tomato-sauce-369172">Red Sauce</a><br />
<b>Day 38 (W)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 39 (Th)</b> - ginger and garlic stir fried rotisserie chicken and veggies; brown rice<br />
<b>Day 40 (F)</b> - Kane's birthday dinner! Had his favorite Chicaog Giordano's pizza delivered; caesar salad; I made <a href="https://beyondfrosting.com/best-ever-no-bake-chocolate-cheesecake/">Chocolate Cheesecake</a><br />
<b>Day 41 (Sat)</b> - leftovers<br />
<b>Day 42 (Sun)</b> - leftovers<br />
<br />
<b>Day 43 (M)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 44 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.wellplated.com/tofu-tacos/">Tofu Tacos with Black Beans</a><br />
<b>Day 45 (W)</b> - out<br />
<b>Day 46 (Th)</b> - <a href="https://thefamilyfreezer.com/2012/12/06/freezer-to-slow-cooker-chicken-chili/">Freezer-to-Slow Cooker Chicken Chili</a><br />
<b>Day 47 (F)</b> - out<br />
<b>Day 48 (Sat)</b> - <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/cast-iron-pizza-with-fennel-and-sausage">Cast-Iron Pizza with Fennel and Sausage</a> (OMG SO GOOD)<br />
<b>Day 49 (Sun)</b> - <a href="https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1020435-soba-noodle-and-steak-salad-with-ginger-lime-dressing">Soba Noodle and Steak Salad with Ginger-Lime Dressing</a><br />
<br />
<b>Day 50 (M)</b> - Grilled Paleo Basil and Cracked Pepper Sausages; salad<br />
<b>Day 51 (T)</b> - <a href="https://sweetcsdesigns.com/one-pot-cheesy-taco-skillet">One Pot Cheesy Taco Skillet</a><br />
<b>Day 52 (W)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 53 (Th)</b> - <a href="https://flouronmyface.com/freezer-meal-bbq-cranberry-chicken/">BBQ Cranberry Chicken</a><br />
<b>Day 54 (F)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 55 (Sat)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 56 (Sun)</b> - our neighbor kindly made us this delicious <a href="https://www.washingtonian.com/2019/03/20/recipe-chaia-mexican-veggie-soup-is-pure-comfort/">Chaia Mexican Veggie Soup</a><br />
<br />
<b>Day 57 (M)</b> - <a href="https://www.gordonramsay.com/gr/recipes/teriyaki-salmon/">Teriyaki Salmon</a>; rice; roasted broccoli<br />
<b>Day 58 (T)</b> - <a href="https://thefamilyfreezer.com/2017/06/07/10-marinated-chicken-freezer-packs-for-the-grill-in-25-minutes/">Lemon Pepper Chicken</a>; couscous; green beans<br />
<b>Day 59 (W)</b> - <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/cast-iron-pizza-with-fennel-and-sausage">Cast-Iron Pizza with Fennel and Sausage</a>; salad<br />
<b>Day 60 (Th)</b> - <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2017/11/all-american-chili-30-days-of-dinner.html">All American Chili</a>; salad<br />
<b>Day 61 (F)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 62 (Sat)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 63 (Sun)</b> - dinner out<br />
<br />
<b>Day 64 (M)</b> - leftovers<br />
<b>Day 65 (T)</b> - <a href="http://Beef Ragu over Cauliflower Gnocchi (slightly adapted from Simply Delicious) Ingredients - 2 lb chuck roast - 2 red onions, peeled and roughly chopped - 1, 14.5 ounce can of diced tomatoes - 1 tbsp tomato paste - 2 tsp sugar (or sub honey) - 6 garlic cloves peeled, left whole - 2 sprigs fresh rosemary - 5 sprigs fresh thyme - 2 bay leaves - 2 tbsp soy sauce - 1 cup red wine - 2 cups beef stock - salt and pepper to taste - frozen Cauliflower Gnocchi - parmesean cheese and parsley for serving (optional) Directions 1. Preheat oven to 325F. Place beef, onions, tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, garlic, herbs, and soy sauce into a dutch oven. Lightly mix. Add wine and stock and cover. 2. Place in oven and cook for 4 - 5 hours until meat is tender and pulls apart easily. Shred meat with two forks. Then turn oven up to 425F and return rags to oven to cook for another 20 minutes. If you're roasting veggies for a side dish, I put these in the oven now as well. 3. Cook cauliflower gnocchi. Spoon ragu over gnocchi, top with parmesean cheese and parsley before serving. * * * Day 1 (M) - Back-Pocket Bolognese Day 2 (T) - Day 3 (W) - Day 4 (Th) - Day 5 (F) - Day 6 (Sat) - Day 7 (Sun) - Day 8 (M) - Day 9 (T) - Day 10 (W) - Day 11 (Th) - Day 12 (F) - Day 13 (Sat) - Day 14 (Sun) - Day 15 (M) - Day 16 (T) - Day 17 (W) - Day 18 (Th) - Day 19 (F) - Day 20 (Sat) - Day 21 (Sun) - Day 23 (M) - Day 23 (T) - Day 24 (W) - Day 25 (Th) - Day 26 (F) - Day 27 (Sat) - Day 28 (Sun) - Day 29 (M) - Day 30 (T) - Day 31 (W) - Day 32 (Th) - Day 33 (F) - Day 34 (Sat) - Day 35 (Sun) - Day 36 (M) - Day 37 (T) - Day 38 (W) - Day 39 (Th) - Day 40 (F) - Day 41 (Sat) - Day 42 (Sun) - Day 43 (M) - Day 44 (T) - Day 45 (W) - Day 46 (Th) - Day 47 (F) - Day 48 (Sat) - Day 49 (Sun) - Day 50 (M) - Day 51 (T) - Day 52 (W) - Day 53 (Th) - Day 54 (F) - Day 55 (Sat) - Day 56 (Sun) - Day 57 (M) - Day 58 (T) - Day 59 (W) - Day 60 (Th) - Day 61 (F) - Day 62 (Sat) - Day 63 (Sun) - Day 64 (M) - Day 65 (T) - Day 66 (W) - Day 67 (Th) - Day 68 (F) - Day 69 (Sat) - Day 70 (Sun) - Day 71 (M) - Day 72 (T) - Day 73 (W) - Day 74 (Th) - Day 75 (F) - Day 76 (Sat) - Day 77 (Sun) - Day 78 (M) - Day 79 (T) - Day 80 (W) - Day 81 (Th) - Day 82 (F) - Day 83 (Sat) - Day 84 (Sun) - Day 85 (M) - Day 86 (T) - Beef Ragu over Cauliflower Gnocchi; roasted broccoli">Back-Pocket Bolognese</a>; gnocchi<br />
<b>Day 66 (W)</b> - brinner<br />
<b>Day 67 (Th)</b> - <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/big-batch-meatballs-and-red-sauce-3364762">Big Batch Meatballs</a> but used this <a href="https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/classic-tomato-sauce-369172">Red Sauce</a><br />
<b>Day 68 (F)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 69 (Sat)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 70 (Sun)</b> - dinner out<br />
<br />
<b>Day 71 (M)</b> - <a href="https://www.onceuponachef.com/recipes/thai-red-curry-chicken.html">Thai Chicken Curry</a> -- again from our nice neighbor!<br />
<b>Day 72 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/bean-sage-sausage-soup">White Bean, Sage, and Sausage Soup</a><br />
<b>Day 73 (W)</b> - <a href="https://www.lemonblossoms.com/blog/instant-pot-shredded-chicken/">Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Mexican Style</a><br />
<b>Day 74 (Th)</b> - brinner<br />
<b>Day 75 (F)</b> - <a href="http://Beef Ragu over Cauliflower Gnocchi (slightly adapted from Simply Delicious) Ingredients - 2 lb chuck roast - 2 red onions, peeled and roughly chopped - 1, 14.5 ounce can of diced tomatoes - 1 tbsp tomato paste - 2 tsp sugar (or sub honey) - 6 garlic cloves peeled, left whole - 2 sprigs fresh rosemary - 5 sprigs fresh thyme - 2 bay leaves - 2 tbsp soy sauce - 1 cup red wine - 2 cups beef stock - salt and pepper to taste - frozen Cauliflower Gnocchi - parmesean cheese and parsley for serving (optional) Directions 1. Preheat oven to 325F. Place beef, onions, tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, garlic, herbs, and soy sauce into a dutch oven. Lightly mix. Add wine and stock and cover. 2. Place in oven and cook for 4 - 5 hours until meat is tender and pulls apart easily. Shred meat with two forks. Then turn oven up to 425F and return rags to oven to cook for another 20 minutes. If you're roasting veggies for a side dish, I put these in the oven now as well. 3. Cook cauliflower gnocchi. Spoon ragu over gnocchi, top with parmesean cheese and parsley before serving. * * * Day 1 (M) - Back-Pocket Bolognese Day 2 (T) - Day 3 (W) - Day 4 (Th) - Day 5 (F) - Day 6 (Sat) - Day 7 (Sun) - Day 8 (M) - Day 9 (T) - Day 10 (W) - Day 11 (Th) - Day 12 (F) - Day 13 (Sat) - Day 14 (Sun) - Day 15 (M) - Day 16 (T) - Day 17 (W) - Day 18 (Th) - Day 19 (F) - Day 20 (Sat) - Day 21 (Sun) - Day 23 (M) - Day 23 (T) - Day 24 (W) - Day 25 (Th) - Day 26 (F) - Day 27 (Sat) - Day 28 (Sun) - Day 29 (M) - Day 30 (T) - Day 31 (W) - Day 32 (Th) - Day 33 (F) - Day 34 (Sat) - Day 35 (Sun) - Day 36 (M) - Day 37 (T) - Day 38 (W) - Day 39 (Th) - Day 40 (F) - Day 41 (Sat) - Day 42 (Sun) - Day 43 (M) - Day 44 (T) - Day 45 (W) - Day 46 (Th) - Day 47 (F) - Day 48 (Sat) - Day 49 (Sun) - Day 50 (M) - Day 51 (T) - Day 52 (W) - Day 53 (Th) - Day 54 (F) - Day 55 (Sat) - Day 56 (Sun) - Day 57 (M) - Day 58 (T) - Day 59 (W) - Day 60 (Th) - Day 61 (F) - Day 62 (Sat) - Day 63 (Sun) - Day 64 (M) - Day 65 (T) - Day 66 (W) - Day 67 (Th) - Day 68 (F) - Day 69 (Sat) - Day 70 (Sun) - Day 71 (M) - Day 72 (T) - Day 73 (W) - Day 74 (Th) - Day 75 (F) - Day 76 (Sat) - Day 77 (Sun) - Day 78 (M) - Day 79 (T) - Day 80 (W) - Day 81 (Th) - Day 82 (F) - Day 83 (Sat) - Day 84 (Sun) - Day 85 (M) - Day 86 (T) - Beef Ragu over Cauliflower Gnocchi; roasted broccoli">Back-Pocket Bolognese</a>; salad<br />
<b>Day 76 (Sat)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 77 (Sun)</b> - dinner out<br />
<br />
<b>Day 78 (M)</b> - <a href="https://livingwellmom.com/healing-paleo-chicken-soup/">Nourishing Paleo Chicken Soup</a><br />
<b>Day 79 (T)</b> - <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2017/11/all-american-chili-30-days-of-dinner.html">All American Chili</a>; salad<br />
<b>Day 80 (W)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 81 (Th)</b> - <a href="https://feastandfarm.com/chicken-and-polenta-with-broccoli/">Chicken and Polenta with Broccoli</a><br />
<b>Day 82 (F)</b> - <a href="https://www.wholesomelicious.com/thai-beef-drunken-noodles/">Thai Beef Drunken Noodles</a><br />
<b>Day 83 (Sat)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 84 (Sun)</b> - dinner out<br />
<br />
<b>Day 85 (M)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 86 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.halfbakedharvest.com/instant-pot-bbq-beer-pulled-chicken-tacos/">Instant Pot BBQ Beer Pulled Chicken Tacos</a><br />
<b>Day 87 (W)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 88 (Th)</b> - Thanksgiving!! I put out shrimp cocktail and a monster party board for apps. I made <a href="https://steelehousekitchen.com/roasted-turkey-breast-with-maple-bourbon-glaze">Maple Bourbon Glazed Turkey Breast</a>; <a href="https://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/caramelized-onion-bacon-gravy">Caramelized Onion and Bacon Gravy</a>; <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/brussels-sprouts-with-pistachios-and-lime">Brussels Sprouts with Pistachios and Lime</a>; <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/mashed-potatoes-with-crispety-cruncheties">Crispy-Topped Mashed Potatoes</a>; <a href="https://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/grapefruit-apricot-cranberry-relish-rosemary">Grapefruit Apricot Cranberry Relish with Rosemary</a>; <a href="https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/brown-sugar-glazed-sweet-potatoes-with-marshmallows-813">Brown-Sugar Glazed Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows</a>; <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/cornbread-stuffing-with-sausage-and-corn-nuts">Cornbread Stuffing with Sausage and Corn Nuts</a>; and boxed stuffing for the Mr. My mom made my favorite Brownie Pecan Pie and my in-laws brought additional pies and rolls.<br />
<b>Day 89 (F)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 90 (Sat)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 91 (Sun)</b> - <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/sweet-and-saucy-pork-chops">Sweet-and-Saucy Pork Chops</a>; couscous; broccoli<br />
<br />
<b>Day 92 (M)</b> - <a href="https://www.gordonramsay.com/gr/recipes/teriyaki-salmon/">Teriyaki Salmon</a>; rice; roasted broccoli<br />
<b>Day 93 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.foodiecrush.com/easy-chicken-gyros-with-tzatziki-sauce/">Easy Chicken Gyro with Tzatziki Sauce</a>; orzo<br />
<b>Day 94 (W)</b> - filet mignon; mashed potatoes; green beans<br />
<b>Day 95 (Th)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 96 (F)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 97 (Sat)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 98 (Sun)</b> - <a href="https://ourbalancedbowl.com/loaded-turkey-taco-bowls/">Loaded Turkey Taco Bowls</a><br />
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<b>Day 99 (M)</b> - <a href="https://damndelicious.net/2015/02/20/oven-fried-chicken-honey-mustard-glaze/">Oven Fried Chicken with Honey Mustard Glaze</a>; green beans; quinoa pasta<br />
<b>Day 100 (T)</b> - <a href="https://food52.com/recipes/82255-general-tso-tofu-recipe">Best General Tso's Tofu</a><br />
<b>Day 101 (W)</b> - <a href="https://www.eatwell101.com/garlic-butter-steak-and-zucchini-noodles-recipe">15-Minute Lemon Garlic Butter Steak with Zucchini Noodles</a><br />
<b>Day 102 (Th)</b> - leftovers<br />
<b>Day 103 (F)</b> - <a href="https://food52.com/recipes/77790-hugh-acheson-s-slow-cooker-pot-roast-with-chickpea-salad">Slow-Cooker Pot Roast with Chickpea Salad</a><br />
<b>Day 104 (Sat)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 105 (Sun)</b> - dinner out<br />
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<b>Day 106 (M)</b> - <a href="https://realsimplegood.com/pork-lettuce-wraps-paleo-gf-soy-free/">Pork Lettuce Wraps</a><br />
<b>Day 107 (T)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 108(W)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 109 (Th)</b> - <a href="https://www.marthastewart.com/1144103/chicken-bolognese-tagliatelle">Chicken Bolognese</a><br />
<b>Day 110 (F)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 111 (Sat)</b> - <a href="https://damndelicious.net/2015/02/20/oven-fried-chicken-honey-mustard-glaze/">Oven Fried Chicken with Honey Mustard Glaze</a><br />
<b>Day 112 (Sun)</b> - <a href="http://www.thedefineddish.com/loaded-whole30-sweet-potato-fries/">Loaded Whole30 Sweet Potato Fries</a> (we had ours as nachos)<br />
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<b>Day 113 (M)</b> - <a href="https://livingwellmom.com/healing-paleo-chicken-soup/">Nourishing Paleo Chicken Soup</a><br />
<b>Day 114 (T)</b> - Christmas Eve cheese fondue!<br />
<b>Day 115(W)</b> - Christmas dinner! We grilled out some gorgeous filet mignon and my father-in-law made a fabulous sauce for it. I made a big party board for apps, <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/broccoli-caesar">Broccoli Caesar Salad</a> (I LOVED this!), <a href="https://www.sarcasticcooking.com/2012/11/29/twice-baked-loaded-sweet-potatoes/">Twice Baked Loaded Potatoes </a>(I used regular baking potatoes), <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/bas-best-green-bean-casserole">Best Green Bean Casserole</a>, <a href="https://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/maple-bacon-popovers">Maple-Bacon Popovers</a>, and <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/fallen-chocolate-cake">Fallen Chocolate Cake</a> for dessert.<br />
<b>Day 116 (Th)</b> - leftovers<br />
<b>Day 117 (F)</b> - Hanukkah dinner -- we always order from <a href="https://www.wagshals.com/">Wagshals</a> - chicken matzoh ball soup, brisket, latkes, apple sauce, creamed spinach, knot rolls. And Cam made a cake for dessert!<br />
<b>Day 118 (Sat)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 119 (Sun)</b> - <a href="http://www.thedefineddish.com/ultimate-game-day-nachos/">Nacho Beef</a> taco bowls<br />
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<b>Day 120 (M)</b> - <a href="https://www.wellplated.com/baked-chicken-parmesan/">Baked Chicken Parmesean</a>; <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/broccoli-caesar">Broccoli Caesar Salad</a>; pasta<br />
<b>Day 121 (T)</b> -NYE dinner out at <a href="https://www.littlecocos.com/">Little Coco's</a><br />
<b>Day 122(W)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 123 (Th)</b> - <a href="https://www.foodiecrush.com/easy-chicken-gyros-with-tzatziki-sauce/">Easy Chicken Gyro with Tzatziki Sauce</a><br />
<b>Day 124 (F)</b> - <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/salmon-and-broccolini">Salmon and Broccolini with Citrus-Chile Sauce</a><br />
<b>Day 125 (Sat)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 126 (Sun)</b> - dinner out<br />
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<b>Day 127 (M)</b> - <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2019/01/slow-cooker-greek-beef-stew-with.html">Slow Cooker Greek Beef Stew with Gremolata</a>; cauliflower gnocchi<br />
<b>Day 128 (T)</b> - Trader Joe's porchetta; green beans; cauliflower gnocchi<br />
<b>Day 129(W)</b> - <a href="https://www.paleorunningmomma.com/chicken-pesto-stuffed-sweet-potatoes-paleo-whole30/">Chicken Pesto Stuffed Sweet Potatoes</a>; salad<br />
<b>Day 130 (Th)</b> - <a href="http://www.cooksandkid.com/spicy-beef-and-lamb-kofta/">Spicy Beef and Lamb Kofta</a>; broccoli; roasted potatoes<br />
<b>Day 131 (F)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 132 (Sat)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 133 (Sun)</b> - dinner out<br />
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<b>Day 134 (M)</b> - Trader Joe's cabernet pot roast; kale gnocchi; broccoli<br />
<b>Day 135 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.primalpalate.com/paleo-recipe/balsamic-and-rosemary-chicken/">Paleo Balsamic and Rosemary Chicken</a> grilled; cauliflower gnocchi; green beans<br />
<b>Day 136(W)</b> - <a href="https://www.skinnytaste.com/slow-cooker-paleo-jalapeno-popper/">Paleo Jalapeno Popper Chicken Chili</a><br />
<b>Day 137 (Th)</b> - <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/zaatar-fish-and-chips">Za'atar Fish and Chips</a><br />
<b>Day 138 (F)</b> - <a href="https://sweetcsdesigns.com/one-pot-cheesy-taco-skillet">One Pot Cheesy Taco Skillet</a><br />
<b>Day 139 (Sat)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 140 (Sun)</b> - dinner out<br />
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<b>Day 141 (M)</b> - filet mignon; roasted potatoes; salad<br />
<b>Day 142 (T)</b> - Beef Ragu over Cauliflower Gnocchi; roasted broccoli<br />
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Not-So-SAHMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01449442571749036593noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7050866223284067912.post-43669918532248686892020-01-17T10:15:00.001-05:002020-01-17T10:15:45.120-05:00Belgium + The Netherlands: Days 9 & 10 -- Amsterdam <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well those three months flew by. I was doing so well getting our summer vacation posts out and then, well, life. I've even had all of the photos edited, but just couldn't get around to writing it up. But seeing as I'm now working on our plans for next summer, I figured it was time to get this trip wrapped up before I forget!<br />
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I'd left our last Friday in Amsterdam purposefully open. We'd toyed with the idea of heading to Haarlem or the beach in Zandvoort for a day, but I didn't want to commit to that ahead of time. Kane was sort of chomping at the bit for some WWII history, so I looked up a guide on the fly and was able to book <a href="https://books.google.com/books?id=SbpLDwAAQBAJ&pg=PT63&lpg=PT63&dq=albert+walet+amsterdam&source=bl&ots=fexojVo-m0&sig=ACfU3U3tTkF-ma52fBSBeyjTCDF_UFmb_A&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiM_aWzqonnAhXkwVkKHQNkB10Q6AEwEnoECAoQAQ#v=onepage&q=albert%20walet%20amsterdam&f=false">Al Walet</a> for an afternoon tour (I'd wanted to book <a href="https://amsterdamsel.com/">Amsterdamsel</a>, but she was unavailable). So we did something unusual for this trip and slept in first! We had brunch at our hotel and then Al met us there.<br />
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Al was armed with maps and tons of historical knowledge. He gave us an overview of the war first and then we set out for a tour of the bulk of the city. We did a trail through the <a href="https://www.iamsterdam.com/en/see-and-do/things-to-do/museums-and-galleries/museums/amsterdam-city-archives">Amsterdam City Archives </a>(a really neat destination in and of itself), Thorbecke Square, Rembrandt Square, <a href="https://www.operaballet.nl/en">Dutch National Opera and Ballet</a> over the Amstel river, the <a href="https://www.amsterdam.info/portuguese-synagogue/">Portuguese Synagogue</a>, through the flea market to the Spinoza Monument.<br />
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We rounded out our walk by heading across the Skinny Bridge (where lovers leave locks) and ending in the <a href="https://www.amsterdam.info/shopping/flowermarket/">Flower Market</a>. All the while Al was able to give us a great perspective of the city during WWII. He also knew a ton about architecture, water management, and just pretty much any and all random subjects. Kane would have liked a little more WWII-focused tour, I think, but it was a great way to get the lay of land (and we probably should have done it towards the front of our stay there).<br />
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After taking photos all day on our tour, I intentionally left my camera at the hotel when we went back out for dinner. We were getting a chance to makeup our planned visit to <a href="https://restaurantblauw.nl/">Indonesian Restaurant Blauw</a>. We had a little bit of a tense ride there as Joel tried to manuever moving money around (remember, my wallet was stolen the day before and we'd canceled all our joint credit cards!) to make sure we could actually pay for dinner. After a frantic search for an ATM, we were set. We knew we wanted to try all the Rijsftaffel (<a href="https://www.saveur.com/article/Travels/Rijstaffel/">read up on the cuisine here</a>) they offered, so we just let the waitress pick a wide variety for us. I thought everything was amazing and it was such a fun way to try so many different flavors.<br />
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After dinner, we were all totally stuffed. So we decided to take the long walk back to our hotel. We were basically at the top of <a href="https://www.amsterdam.info/parks/vondelpark/">Vondelpark</a>, the largest park in Amsterdam, so we decided to walk down through that towards our hotel. It was one of the best decisions we made in Amsterdam. Right away we walked into a kids playground that was adjacent to a beer garden (<a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g188590-d4010117-Reviews-De_Vondeltuin-Amsterdam_North_Holland_Province.html">Vondel Tuin</a>). So Joel grabbed us some cold brews and the kids got to get their after dinner energy out. The park was buzzing on Friday night -- full of families and younger groups. We walked along the edge of a lake that had enormous mansions on the other side, all lit up with Friday night parties. I had to know where we were, and after a quick google search, discovered that we were looking at the back of one of the most affluent neighborhoods of the city -- Willemspark. It was really spectacular. We wandered our way through beer gardens and groups of kids partying until we made it back to our favorite ice cream stop by our hotel. Such a great end to a busy day!<br />
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No rest for the weary, though. We were up bright and early the next morning to meet our guide for our <a href="https://www.eatingeurope.com/amsterdam/?gclid=CjwKCAiAsIDxBRAsEiwAV76N84iSynfjX4Dh_zLz6S3Lp7MpI-AlEZC6FA5Y3QsmlZnOwzZBKJZTpBoCJqQQAvD_BwE">Eating Europe Food Tour</a>! If there is one thing this crew will get up early for, it's more eating.<br />
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We met our group and very energetic guide <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/marjoleindecleen/?originalSubdomain=nl">Marjolein</a> at <a href="https://lunchcafedespiegel.nl/">Cafe de Spiegel</a> for the traditional sort-of-pancake-like and totally delicious poffertjes. We got an overview of where we'd be going for the day and got to know the group a bit. Then we headed out for the rest of our tour.<br />
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In what will forever be known as the Amsterdam Pickled Herring Incident, our adventurous eaters followed through on their promise to at least try everything. Kane was particularly excited to check out the <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g188590-d13160674-Reviews-The_Seafood_Bar_Shop-Amsterdam_North_Holland_Province.html">Seafood Bar Shop</a> because he loves seafood. Against all our better judgments he took a bite of pickled herring and I knew it was instantly a mistake -- he is a die-hard foodie but also has an incredilby sensitive sense of smell and trigger-happy tummy with certain things. He didn't even get his mouth closed and I knew everything was coming back up. Joel pretty surreptiously scooted him outside and he yakked off to the side like a champ. Then everyone came outside to enjoy oysters and I tried to scoot the vomit away without anyone noticing -- seemed to do the trick. Cami went back in for several humorous photo ops with the leftover herring.<br />
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Kane seemed to have rallied by the time we got to <a href="https://www.lonelyplanet.com/the-netherlands/amsterdam/restaurants/patisserie-holtkamp/a/poi-eat/1409331/360839">Patisserie Holtkamp</a> and tried out a bunch of yummy sweets. Then we ate outside at <a href="https://barbitterbal.nl/en/home/">Bar Bitterbal</a>, which was delicious, before moving on to <a href="https://www.fodors.com/world/europe/netherlands/amsterdam/things-to-do/shopping/reviews/glandorf-thijs-150918740">Glandorf & Thijs</a> for a wine tasting. Marjolein kindly left the adults to try wine and took our kids on a little adventure to pick up some charcuterie (critically, the kids remembered where the meat and cheese shops were becuse we looped back there later!)<br />
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After biterbals, we all hopped on a super cute canal boat for a tour around the city while drinking the wine and cheese we brought on board -- a perfect end to the tour!<br />
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But given that we are Greens, everyone was still hungry after the canal ride. So we went back in search of cheese and charcuterie (and more wine!) from the handful of shops the kids had visited earlier -- <a href="https://www.slagerijdeleeuw.nl/">Slagerij De Leeuw</a> for charcuterie and <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g188590-d7614211-Reviews-Kaashuis_Tromp_Utrechtsestraat-Amsterdam_North_Holland_Province.html">Kaashuis Tromp</a> for cheese and bread. We set up a picnic in <a href="https://onthegrid.city/amsterdam/centrum/amstelveld">Amstelveld Square</a> and the kids eyed up the locals playing a game of soccer. Kane tried repeatedly to work himself into the mix, but reported that the kids were not very welcoming. So then both of our kids, again being Greens, plotted revenge until the locals took off.<br />
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We walked back to our hotel and happened upon the cutest neighborhood playspace -- <a href="https://www.facebook.com/leidsedwarstuin/">De Leidse Dwarstuin</a>. The kids got to play a bit longer before and we all followed the rules.<br />
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As he'd been doing the entire trip, Kane tried to hop/walk over all the pedestrian protecting pillars back to the hotel. And continued to give me a heart attack as bikes and cars zoomed by him. It was time to go home. We had dinner at the hotel bar that night, took one last stroll around Amsterdam the next morning, and then we were off! Such an amazing trip. I included my other Amsterdam recs below as I did with the other cities. On to the next one!<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Other things on my list!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Activities + Sights</b>:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">- <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1024752-d2219650-Reviews-Clara_Maria_Cheese_Clog_Farm-Amstelveen_North_Holland_Province.html">Clara Maria Cheese & Clog Farm</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">- <a href="https://www.stedelijk.nl/en">Stedelijk Museum</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">- <a href="https://www.rijksmuseum.nl/">Rijksmuseum</a></span></div>
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- <a href="https://jck.nl/en/location/jewish-historical-museum">Jewish Historical Museum</a></div>
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- Jewish Heritage Tour with <a href="https://amsterdamsel.com/">Larae Malooly</a></div>
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- <a href="https://www.rembrandthuis.nl/?lang=en">Rembrandt House Museum</a> </div>
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- <a href="https://tassenmuseum.nl/en/">Museum of Bags</a> </div>
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- <a href="https://www.nemosciencemuseum.nl/nl/">NEMO Science Museum</a> </div>
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- <a href="https://www.hetscheepvaartmuseum.com/">National Maritime Museum</a> </div>
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- <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g188590-d244493-Reviews-Houseboat_Museum-Amsterdam_North_Holland_Province.html">Houseboat Museum</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Food + Bars</b>:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">- <a href="https://foodhallen.nl/amsterdam">Foodhallen</a> (annoyed that we didn't get here!) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">- <a href="https://bencohenstreetfood.com/">Ben Cohen Tel-Aviv Street Food</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">- <a href="http://www.tempodoeloerestaurant.nl/">Tempo Doeloe</a></span></div>
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- <a href="https://bols.com/experience/">House of Bols Cocktail Experience</a> </div>
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- <a href="https://www.reypenaercheese.com/en/">Reypenaer Cheese Tasting Room</a></div>
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- <a href="https://www.fodors.com/world/europe/netherlands/amsterdam/restaurants/reviews/brasserie-nel-150690">Brasserie Nel</a></div>
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Not-So-SAHMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01449442571749036593noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7050866223284067912.post-84891124515461482672019-10-16T15:02:00.000-04:002020-01-16T18:43:45.178-05:00Belgium + The Netherlands: Days 7 & 8 -- Amsterdam <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We spent the end of this wonderful summer vacation in Amsterdam and while we were sad to leave Antwerp, we were all excited to get to the last stop! We packed a lot into four days here, so I split this visit into two posts. We'd booked ahead (and then changed to a little later) our Thalys train tickets to Amsterdam. The train couldn't have been easier and it was nice to have some forced downtime.<br />
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I thought we'd seen a lot of bikes in Belgium, but it seemed like every square inch of Amsterdam was covered in them -- turns out most people who live there have several and keep them in different parts of the city to use. The kids were immediately on it and begging to rent bikes before we'd even arrived at our hotel. But after seeing how people bike around Amsterdam, I decided to count ourselves lucky with our Belgium biking and nixed their plans.<br />
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I'd booked a family room at the super hip <a href="https://www.pulitzeramsterdam.com/">Hotel Pulitzer</a>, which is located in the Jordaan neighborhood and literally down the street from the Anne Frank House. We checked in and turned around quickly to make our reservations at the <a href="https://www.vangoghmuseum.nl/en/plan-your-visit/tickets?v=1">Van Gogh Museum </a>(you absolutely need reservations and can book up to four months in advance -- do it!).<br />
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We set out walking to Museum Quarter, stopping at the <a href="https://www.rijksmuseum.nl/en">Rijksmuseum</a> along the way to play some chess in the garden. The Rijksmusuem is huge and purportedly has the best collection of Dutch Masters. Even though I thought the kids would love to see some Vermeer (<a href="https://amzn.to/31nMJoy">Chasing Vermeer </a>was a favorite book of both a few years back), they'd kind of had their fill of <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2019/09/belgium-netherlands-days-1-2-brussels.html">Dutch Masters in Brussels</a> so I thought we'd pass this time.<br />
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I'd booked late afternoon tickets to the Van Gogh, but it was still the most packed of any other museum we'd visited on the trip. We grabbed audio tours for the kids and Kane in particular was obsessed with the art. Cami liked it, but she's more of a modern art gal and we'd both spied the <a href="https://www.stedelijk.nl/en">Stedelijk</a> and <a href="https://mocomuseum.com/">Moco museums</a> and were sort of jonesing to visit those. Don't get me wrong, the Van Gogh was amazing and we spent quite a bit of time there going through each floor. But by the end, I'd hopped on my phone and purchased tickets to Moco for after.<br />
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The main Moco exhibit when we visited was Banksy - Laugh Now (an unauthorized exhibit of private collections) and everyone loved it. We've seen a few of Banksy's works here and there, but this was a huge collection.<br />
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We came up with an awesome Halloween Banksy costume for Cami on the visit!<br />
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We hung in the garden for a bit afterwards, waiting to walk to our dinner reservation.<br />
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On our walk to dinner, we stopped to see what we could pick up for an Amsterdam vacation home. I'd made reservations at Café Wildschut and it was PACKED for happy hour when we got there, so I'm not sure our reservation actually did any good. We waited for a table outside while the kids voiced their displeasure over the number of people who smoke in Amsterdam. We finally nabbed a decent table, although still downwind of smokers, and ordered. The cafe was great, but definitely full of locals who were friendly and curious as to how we'd found the place.<br />
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We made a long trek back after dinner, stopping to reward everyone with ice cream from <a href="https://www.iamsterdam.com/en/see-and-do/eating-and-drinking/ice-cream-shops/ijscuypje">IJscuypje </a>right by our hotel. Full and happy we crawled to bed to rest up!<br />
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We had a great breakfast at our hotel (was included and was a huge amount of delicious food) and then got out early the next morning. I'd bought tickets for the Anne Frank House three months to the date earlier, setting my alarm for 5 a.m. and purchasing in the darkened Philly hotel room where everyone else slept for Kane's summer lacrosse tournment. Tickets routinely sell out immediately for a particular day, and we didn't have a ton of flexibility on when we were going to visit. So I made sure I didn't screw that up! Anyway, three months later, I knew this visit was going to be heavy, so I made sure everyone got some fresh air in the gorgeous morning Amsterdam light.<br />
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The musuem was so incredibly well done and thought provoking. The kids handled it all well. I was crying at the introductory session (which you have to sign up for separately and is totally worth it) and didn't really stop throughout. The kids knew a lot about WWII and Anne Frank already and we'd read the book together before our trip. But it was mindblowing to walk through the same rooms and imagine how the Holocaust could have possibly occcurred not so long ago all the while thinking about how the US is acting at home and in the world currently. I didn't want to the kids to be unnecessarily scared, but I wanted them to really think about things meaningfully. And I think they did.</div>
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We left in a bit of a daze though and thankfully popped into <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NieuwsAmsterdam/">Nieuws Amsterdam</a> not too far away, which is a random mix of novelties and home goods. It was really difficult to figure out how to mix back out into the world after the Anne Frank House and this shop sort of forced us to giggle a bit and pick out random gifts for people. We kept walking back to our hotel and stopped in to change. We grabbed a quick lunch at <a href="http://www.casaperu.nl/m/en/">Casa Peru</a> and then hit up the stores in the <a href="https://de9straatjes.nl/en/home">9 Little Streets District</a>, including a bunch of vintage stores where Cami got the cutest Dutch Boy cap.<br />
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We'd done a lot of shopping for Cami in <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2019/09/belgium-netherlands-days-5-6-antwerp.html">Antwerp</a> and we'd promised Kane that we'd get him a proper football jersey in Amsterdam. We grabbed the kids <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/bakkerij-kwakman-amsterdam">waffles at Kwakman</a> and set out to shop for Kane. But then we happened upon the most fabulously random off-the-wall store we'd ever seen: <a href="https://kunstboer.com/">Kunstboer</a>. They make custom apparel neon and metallic, dog and cat flare. We wanted to buy everything! Cami grabbed a great hat and we said we'd be back. Kane was really itching for an AJAX jersey. We walked to <a href="http://www.smit-cruyff.nl/">Smit-Cruyff</a> and hooked him up!<br />
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We were rushing a bit to get back to the hotel and change for dinner. I'd made reservations at <a href="https://restaurantblauw.nl/">Restaurant Blauw</a> to check out Amsterdam's Indonesian food scene and was really excited. We popped back into Kunstboer for some more gifts and then starting booking it back to the hotel. I was distracted and Cami and I got separated from the boys. I am notoriously (and obnoxiously, ask my husband) hyperaware of being safe. I am highly suspect of everything. But on our walk back, someone stepped on the back of my sandal and I went flying. He bent down to pick up my sandal, steadying me as he did so. I was pissed and my foot hurt, so we just kept moving, but I knew something was off. As soon as we got back to the hotel, I knew my wallet had been stolen. And then I was pissed at myself. I'd been so careful the whole trip and I almost never take my entire wallet out with me when we're traveling. Fortunately we handled all the main things in just about 30 minutes, moved our Blauw reservation to the following night, and were on our way to <a href="https://www.satchmoamsterdam.com/en/">Satchmo </a>for a super yummy, really fun outdoor dinner.<br />
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Can't keep the Greens down! (although a good reminder to be careful and trust your gut!). I'll share our last two days in Amsterdam and the last of this vacation posts when I get through the photos!Not-So-SAHMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01449442571749036593noreply@blogger.com42tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7050866223284067912.post-30112902957481658982019-09-13T14:23:00.001-04:002019-09-13T15:06:45.068-04:00Belgium + The Netherlands: Days 5 & 6 -- Antwerp <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Although <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2019/09/belgium-netherlands-days-3-and-4-bruges.html">Bruges may be the holder of my favorite vacation day</a>, Antwerp was definitely my favorite city in Belgium. I think <a href="http://designsoda.co.uk/antwerp-design-lovers-travel-guide/">this blog post</a> I'd scoped ahead of our trip totally nailed it: "I see this as a city which sits culturally somewhere between Paris & Scandinavia and it has a hipster scene which feels less about display and all the more alluring for it." I absolutely loved it and wish we'd had more time there than anywhere else on our trip.<br />
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We made some adjustments to this city visit on the fly based on our first few days in Belgium. Our transfer ride to Bruges was so easy that I decided to book another from Bruges to Antwerp. I found a ride in just a few minutes with <a href="https://mydaytrip.com/">Daytrip</a>, which is kind of like a European Uber for longer rides and even sightseeing trips. It was incredibly easy and reliable and I totally recommend it if you find yourself if need of a ride like this!<br />
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After getting stuck at a barge coming through bridge on the outside of the city, we were quickly on our way and at the door of our Antwerp B&B. I happened upon Boulevard Leopold randomly while looking for a larger hotel suite that could accommodate a family and decided it was so quirky and opposite of where we'd normally stay that we had to do it. And it was amazing! Boulevard Leopold is a 19th century house in the middle of the still functioning Jewish quarter in Antwerp. We were able to nab the Master Suite and had a whole apartment for ourselves.<br />
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I generally loathe how B&Bs make you feel forced to make nice with random people, but Martin who owns and runs Leopold could not have struck a better balance between being helpful and accommodating and then disappearing. There were a few other guests while we were there, including some models in for a photoshoot (the B&B has lots of photoshoots, including one in our apartment shortly after we left). Kane could not make heads or tails out of the scantily-clad leggy ladies and when I prompted him about it after, he said he thought they'd come to breakfast in their pajamas!<br />
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But we actually arrived mid-day in Antwerp and Martin directed us to nearby <a href="https://www.visitantwerpen.be/en/pakt">PAKT, a former industrial site turned a sustainable, creative hub</a> surrounded by rooftop gardens. It's in the middle of what appears to be a block of warehouses, so it took us a minute to find it, but it was super cool! We grabbed a quick outdoor pizza lunch at <a href="http://standardpizza.be/">Standard</a> and then grabbed moon pops for the kids from <a href="https://www.racinepakt.be/">Racine</a>. We explored PAKT a bit more and popped into a crossfit gym to inquire about a drop-in workout (although we ended up not needing to go!). Emboldened by our bike ride in Bruges, we decided to <a href="https://www.velo-antwerpen.be/en">rent Velo bikes</a> right outside of PAKT (everyone needs their own account, so it took a bit to get it set up on our phones, but then we had no problem).<br />
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I'd planned several museums for the following day, so we decided to stick to the outdoors and rode in search of the Art Nouveau and Victorian architecture districts. The kids liked the architecture but they were much more into just riding bikes. After navigating a few streets with both Joel and I screaming and sweating, I finally safely landed us at <a href="https://www.trfihi-parks.com/en/park-details/10021-Koning-Albertpark">Koning Albertpark</a> close to our B&B.<br />
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Do you divy up duties while traveling? I am primarily the planner and the navigator -- I have the sense of direction. Joel handles all the day-to-day interactions with local people -- he has a penchant for communicating in other languages I do not understand at all.<br />
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We headed back to Boulevard Leopold for a little rest. Our tour in Bruges reminded us how big of an asset a tour guide can be -- especially when traveling with kids. I try not to overbook us ahead of time so that we can be flexible, but I'd also booked us a private tour of Antwerp while we were in Bruges. I thought the kids would love the <a href="https://www.viator.com/tours/Antwerp/Legends-of-Antwerp-Private-Tour/d764-110143P2">Legends of Antwerp tour</a> I'd found and I was right. We met our tour guide at Grote Markt (and were immediately glad we'd stayed out of the touristy area all day).<br />
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Our wonderful guide Anna took us on a 2-hour walk throughout the city, telling the kids legends as we went, including the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silvius_Brabo">symbolic significance of hands </a>to the city and the sad story of <a href="https://www.visitantwerpen.be/en/nello-patrasche">Nello & Patrasche</a> (pic at top of post). It was a great way to get our hands around the city layout. We'd worked up quite the appetite after all the bike riding and walking and I was very glad I'd made a reservation at <a href="https://fiskebar.be/">Fiskebar</a> in the south of the city away from all the touristy stuff. Fiskebar was touted as the best seafood in the city and we sat among locals and ate the most bizarre (to us) seafood tower I'd ever had. The kids were troopers and tried all kinds of shellfish we'd never had -- cockles, snails, clams, and other bivalves. And they were rewarded with insanely delicious creme brûlée.<br />
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We woke up the next day in time for Martin's delicious breakfast and Kane school me on how to properly eat soft-boiled eggs and soldiers (he watches a lot of Gordon Ramsey's cooking shows so I'm glad he's picked up something else beyond curse words). Then we headed out to our first museum of the day: <a href="https://www.mas.be/en">MAS</a>. Located in the city's revitalizing Old Dockyards neighborhood, this beautiful modern tower (<a href="https://www.mas.be/en/page/architecture">designed to look like stacked shipping containers and secured with over 3,000 metal hands "holding" the tower together</a>) had a variety of cool exhibits showcasing Antwerp and Belgium's history of trade and cultural exchange.<br />
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Most of the exhibits were really interactive and almost each one had some specific activity that appealed to the kids. We could have spent much more time here than we did, but we had an additional museum planned for the day. So we spent a few hours on the exhibits and then made sure to take in the view from the top.<br />
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The <a href="https://www.redstarline.be/en">Red Star Line Museum</a> portrays the "other end" of <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2017/03/the-statue-of-liberty-ellis-island.html">Ellis Island, which we'd taken the kids to a few years earlier</a>. The Museum has a scavenger hunt activity for kids that lets them follow along the harrowing journey of a young girl as she tries to get to America. It was remarkably well done and a really timely visit given the current state of immigration in the United States and the President's abhorrent treatment of those seeking shelter in our country.<br />
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We walked to nearby <a href="http://www.broodenco.be/">Brood & Co.</a> for lunch and, softened by a lunchtime brew, we acquiesced to the kids' begging to rent bikes again. We grabbed Velo bikes and I took a minute to find an actual bike path to our destination -- we were heading to the train station to change our train tickets to later the next morning -- we wanted more time in Antwerp!<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Everyone did much better on bikes this time and we made it there in no time. You can really see why bikes are the way to get around the city. We switched our tickets, located where we had to be the next morning, and then set out to check out the diamond district. The kids had a fabulous time window shopping and picking out all manner of ridiculous jewelry for me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">But I knew that Antwerp was also a fashion hub (hello <a href="https://theculturetrip.com/europe/belgium/articles/the-antwerp-six-belgium-s-most-influential-avant-garde-fashion-collective/">Antwerp Six</a>!) and I wanted to do some real shopping. It turned out that we mostly shopped for Cami and Joel -- the city's unique sense of style was just so Cam. She cleaned up at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/space.antwerpknokke/">Space</a> and <a href="https://www.bellerose.be/pages/stores?gclid=Cj0KCQjw_OzrBRDmARIsAAIdQ_ISVsR4Z2oNVUA68Ne5F-9LF2jYINkhL9xLlWB3ykbbMdoQECoplsAaAh1cEALw_wcB#belgium">Bellerose</a>. Joel loved <a href="https://www.denhamthejeanmaker.com/?gclid=Cj0KCQjw_OzrBRDmARIsAAIdQ_L1n-UGEfgYugTyEPS0oNhQ-1LsRPKeCX8EwaR4vuoNzaUqCfJuQAIaAqOsEALw_wcB">Denham </a>and we spent a lot of time there chatting with the nicest guy who gave me suggestions for a stationary store (I had the hardest time finding someone who knew what I was talking about, but he was like, "you mean a hipster stationary store?" He got it) and wrote down a bunch of recommendations for dinner away from the tourist hordes (turns out, we had the right neighborhood with Fiskebar). After a quick visit to <a href="https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=stationary%20stad%20leest&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&sxsrf=ACYBGNQbg4zcvzCXO1WDahmCaQODid8H6Q:1568398200913&npsic=0&rflfq=1&rlha=0&rllag=51220608,4401874,403&tbm=lcl&rldimm=10079618721001731177&phdesc=wyIKT9CC_6o&ved=2ahUKEwiWz4bNss7kAhVP11kKHZ2rCjAQvS4wAnoECAoQKQ&rldoc=1&tbs=lrf:!2m1!1e2!2m1!1e3!3sIAE,lf:1,lf_ui:10#rlfi=hd:;si:10079618721001731177,y,wyIKT9CC_6o;mv:!1m2!1d51.218261677319035!2d4.3990611394562205!2m2!1d51.21790172268098!2d4.398486460543779;tbs:lrf:!2m1!1e2!2m1!1e3!3sIAE,lf:1,lf_ui:10">Stationary Stad Leest</a> (a pop up of a local bookstore) and quirky <a href="https://us.flyingtiger.com/en-us/">Flying Tiger </a>(a chain, but still cute), we headed to eat at recommended <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g188636-d2367879-Reviews-Dansing_Chocola-Antwerp_Antwerp_Province.html">Dansing Chocola</a>, which was delicious. We did the long but now familiar walk back to Leopold for a great close to our stay in Antwerp!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Other things on my list!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Activities + Sights</b>:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">- <a href="https://www.muhka.be/">Museum of Contemporary Art, Antwerp </a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">- <a href="https://www.zooantwerpen.be/en/">Antwerp Zoo</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">- <a href="https://www.visitantwerpen.be/en/ferry-service-between-the-left-and-right-bank">Free ferry to the other bank </a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">- <a href="https://www.museumplantinmoretus.be/en">Printing Museum</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">- <a href="https://www.rubenshuis.be/en">Rubens House </a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">- <a href="https://hypebeast.com/2017/2/hypebeast-2017-city-guide-antwerp">Other shopping</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">- <a href="https://www.dekoninck.be/en/Visit-us">De Konick brewery</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Food + Bars</b>:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">- <a href="https://www.thejaneantwerp.com/">The Jane</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">- <a href="http://blacksmoke.be/en/">Black Smoke</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">- <a href="http://www.chezfred.be/">Chez Fred</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">- <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g188636-d6073340-Reviews-Staff_s_Kantine-Antwerp_Antwerp_Province.html">Staff's Kantine</a></span></div>
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- <a href="http://www.cafeshilling.be/" style="font-family: inherit;">Shilling</a></div>
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Not-So-SAHMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01449442571749036593noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7050866223284067912.post-40510214256956395652019-09-09T13:01:00.000-04:002019-09-09T13:01:54.677-04:00Baked Salmon Cakes + 140 Days of Dinner <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As is quite evident by the title of this post, it's been months and months since I posted a meal plan. Nevertheless, we've been cooking and eating our fair share! (Not like you were worried, I know). Since I last posted our meals, I've generally been following a plan of intermittent fasting and tracking macros. I've expanded my food options a bit, but still been keeping it healthy. I also kept trying a few different meal services, but was never completely happy with them. So, it's back to recipe surfing again for me.<br />
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Our family LOVES salmon, but I often find that different recipes come out tasting pretty much the same. Not this one though. It was delicious and full of all the savory goodness our kids love (Cami could eat jars upon jars of capers). The recipe had them as an appetizer, but I served them as the main protein and they were a good quick meal because of the size.<br />
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p.s. there is something slightly creepy to me about going back through this many months of what we ate, but also fun to think back through what we were up to! I left out a few vacations where I didn't do any cooking at all, but for the most part, this is what we've been eating since last March.<br />
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<b><u>Baked Salmon Cakes</u></b></div>
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(slightly adapted from <a href="https://www.skinnytaste.com/baked-salmon-cakes/">SkinnyTaste</a>)</div>
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<b>Ingredients </b></div>
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- 1/2 lb wild salmon filet</div>
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- olive oil or cooking spray </div>
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- 1 tbsp olive oil</div>
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- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper </div>
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- 3/4 cup small-cider red onion (1 small onion)</div>
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- 1 1/2 cups small-diced celery (about 4 stalks)</div>
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- 1/2 cup small-diced red bell pepper</div>
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- 1/2 cup small-diced yellow bell pepper</div>
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- 1/4 cup minced fresh flat-leaf parsley</div>
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- 1 tbsp capers, drained (plus more for serving if you're Cam!) </div>
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- 1/4 tbsp hot sauce</div>
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- 1 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning </div>
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- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs </div>
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- 3 tbsp light mayo </div>
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- 3 tbsp Greek yogurt, 0%</div>
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- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard</div>
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- 1 large egg, lightly beaten</div>
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- 3 large egg whites, lightly beaten</div>
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<b>Directions</b></div>
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1. Season salmon with salt. Heat a large sauté pan over medium-high heat; when hot lightly spray with oil and add the salmon. Cook until browned on one side, about 4-5 minutes, then turn and cook an additional 4-5 minutes or until salmon flakes easily. Set salmon aside to cool.</div>
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2. Add the olive oil to the pan and then add the onion through Old Bay seasoning plus 1/2 tsp Kosher salt and 1/2 tsp pepper. Cook over medium-low heat until the vegetables are soft -- approximately 18-20 minutes. Set aside to cool to room temperature. </div>
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3. Flake the salmon into a large bowl. Add the bread crumbs, mayo, yogurt, mustard, and eggs. Add the cooled vegetable mixture and mix well. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. </div>
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4. Preheat oven to 400 F. Spray a non-stick baking sheet with cooking spray. Shape the batter into 15 (scant 1/4 cup each) cakes and place on prepared baking sheet. Bake about 10-12 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. </div>
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* * *</div>
<br />
<b>Day 1 (M) </b>-- <a href="https://www.finecooking.com/recipe/grilled-chicken-with-pesto-marinated-tomatoes">Grilled Chicken with Pesto and Marinated Tomatoes</a>; cauliflower gnocchi; green beans<br />
<b>Day 2 (T) </b>-- <a href="https://www.thekitchn.com/easy-classic-instant-pot-beef-chili-255422">Instant Pot Chili</a>; salad<br />
<b>Day 3 (W)</b> -- <a href="https://thesaltymarshmallow.com/instant-pot-pulled-pork/">Instant Pot Pulled Pork </a>(subbed honey for brown sugar); Lemony Avocado Slaw; oven-baked fries<br />
<b>Day 4 (Th)</b> -- brinner - crab omelettes; old bay skillet fries; fruit<br />
<b>Day 5 (F)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 6 (Sat)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 7 (Sun)</b> -- out<br />
<br />
<b>Day 8 (M)</b> -- <a href="https://www.foodiecrush.com/easy-chicken-gyros-with-tzatziki-sauce/">Easy Chicken Gyro with Tzatziki Sauce</a>; greek salad<br />
<b>Day 9 (T)</b> -- brinner<br />
<b>Day 10 (W)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 11 (Th)</b> -- grilled filet mignon; <a href="https://www.skinnytaste.com/instant-pot-mashed-potatoes/">Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes</a>; broccoli<br />
<b>Day 12 (F)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 13 (Sat)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 14 (Sun)</b> -- slow cooked corned beef; cauliflower gnocchi; <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/rachael-ray/sauteed-red-cabbage-recipe-1941359">Sautéed Red Cabbage</a><br />
<br />
<b>Day 15 (M) </b>-- <a href="https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/herb-roasted-salmon-fillets/">Herb-Roasted Salmon</a>; polenta; roasted cauliflower<br />
<b>Day 16 (T)</b> -- <a href="http://littlespicejar.com/crispy-chicken-carnitas/">Crispy Chicken Carnitas</a><br />
<b>Day 17 (W) </b>-- out<br />
<b>Day 18 (Th)</b> -- brinner<br />
<b>Day 19 (F)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 20 (Sat)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 21 (Sun)</b> -- <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/skirt-steak-with-chimichurri-sauce">Skirt Steak with Chimichurri</a>; roasted tomatoes; cauliflower gnocchi<br />
<br />
<b>Day 22 (M) </b>-- <a href="https://www.lecremedelacrumb.com/instant-pot-shredded-chicken-tacos/">Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos</a>; roasted broccoli<br />
<b>Day 23 (T)</b> -- <a href="https://thewoodenskillet.com/30-minute-creamy-lemon-caper-salmon-skillet/">30 Minute Creamy Lemon Caper Salmon Skillet</a>; zoodles<br />
<b>Day 24 (W)</b> -- leftovers<br />
<b>Day 25 (Th)</b> -- seared scallops; roasted cauliflower + tomatoes; roasted sweet potatoes<br />
<b>Day 26 (F)</b> -- <a href="https://www.realfoodwithjessica.com/2017/08/06/best-paleo-whole30-marinade/">Best Paleo Whole30 Marinaded Chicken</a>; brown rice; salad<br />
<b>Day 27 (Sat) </b>-- <a href="https://realsimplegood.com/instant-pot-taco-soup/">Instant Pot Taco Soup</a>; salad<br />
<b>Day 28 (Sun)</b> -- <a href="https://www.cookinglight.com/recipes/wild-salmon-horseradish-mustard-sauce">Wild Salmon with Horseradish-Mustard Sauce</a>; rainbow carrots; cauliflower gnocchi<br />
<br />
<b>Day 29 (M)</b> -- <a href="https://themovementmenu.com/recipes/one-pan-shrimp-fajitas/">One Pan Shrimp Fajitas</a>; cauliflower rice<br />
<b>Day 30 (T) </b>-- <a href="https://realsimplegood.com/mojo-pork/">Mojo Pork</a> in baby lettuce cups; roasted broccoli<br />
<b>Day 31 (W)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 32 (Th)</b> -- Plated Steak Frites<br />
<b>Day 33 (F)</b> -- Plated Lemon-Roasted Cod<br />
<b>Day 34 (Sat)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 35 (Sun)</b> -- Trade Joe's Bone-in Turkey Breast; cauliflower gnocchi; salad<br />
<br />
<b>Day 36 (M)</b> -- Sunbasket Salmon Cakes with Tahini Goddess Dressing<br />
<b>Day 37 (T) </b>-- out<br />
<b>Day 38 (W)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 39 (Th)</b> -- Sunbasket Yucatan Turkey Chili Verde<br />
<b>Day 40 (F)</b> -- Sunbasket Seared Chicken Breasts with Zhug and Citrus-Watercress Salad<br />
<b>Day 41 (Sat)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 42 (Sun) </b>-- <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2018/07/moroccan-meatballs-30-days-of-dinner.html">Moroccan Meatballs</a>; brown rice; roasted broccoli<br />
<br />
<b>Day 43 (M)</b> -- <a href="https://lowcarbyum.com/shakshuka-new-yiddish-cookbook/">Shakshuka</a>; cauliflower gnocchi<br />
<b>Day 44 (T)</b> -- <a href="https://ourbalancedbowl.com/2-ingredient-salsa-verde-chicken/">Instant Pot Salsa Verde Chicken</a>; roasted cauliflower<br />
<b>Day 45 (W)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 46 (Th)</b> -- <a href="https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/greek-fish-tacos-recipe/">Greek Fish Tacos</a>; sweet potato fries<br />
<b>Day 47 (F)</b> -- <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2019/03/one-skillet-pork-chops-with-apples-60.html">One Skillet Pork Chops with Apples</a>; cauliflower gnocchi; roasted vegetables<br />
<b>Day 48 (Sat)</b> -- <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/skirt-steak-with-chimichurri-sauce">Skirt Steak with Chimichurri</a>; twice-baked potatoes; steamed carrots<br />
<b>Day 49 (Sun)</b> -- out<br />
<br />
<b>Day 50 (M) </b>-- Sunbasket Za'atar Crusted Roasted Salmon with Fennel Artichoke Salad<br />
<b>Day 51 (T)</b> -- Sunbasket French Quarter Steak with Green Beans and Olive Tapenade<br />
<b>Day 52 (W)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 53 (Th)</b> -- Sunbasket Smothered Pork Chops with Garlicky Collard Greens; cauliflower gnocchi<br />
<b>Day 54 (F) </b>-- <a href="https://www.jessicagavin.com/blackened-mahi-mahi-fish-tacos-with-avocado-lime-sauce/">Blackened Mahi Mahi Tacos</a>; sweet potato fries; roasted cauliflower<br />
<b>Day 55 (Sat)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 56 (Sun)</b> -- Sunbasket Turkey and Vegetable Minestrone with White Beans and Brown Rice<br />
<br />
<b>Day 57 (M)</b> -- Sunbasket Steaks with Arugula Salsa Verde and Green Bean-Feta Salad<br />
<b>Day 58 (T)</b> -- Sunbasket Chicken Paillard with Spiced Summer Squash and Tomato Salad<br />
<b>Day 59 (W)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 60 (Th)</b> -- <a href="https://thelemonbowl.com/honey-mustard-salmon/">Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon</a>; cauliflower gnocchi; roasted salmon<br />
<b>Day 61 (F)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 62 (Sat)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 63 (Sun)</b> -- out<br />
<br />
<b>Day 64 (M)</b> -- Sunbasket Steaks with Chermoula, Roasted Vegetables, and Pesto<br />
<b>Day 65 (T)</b> -- Sunbasket Mediterranean Turkey Kebabs with Carrot and Squash Ribbons<br />
<b>Day 66 (W)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 67 (Th)</b> -- Blue Apron Seared Steaks & Hoison Pan Sauce with Jasmine Rice and Broccoli<br />
<b>Day 68 (F)</b> -- Blue Apron Za'atar-Spiced Chicken Pitas with Tzatziki & Pickled Peppers<br />
<b>Day 69 (Sat)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 70 (Sun)</b> -- out<br />
<br />
<b>Day 1 (M)</b> -- Sunbasket Seared Tuna with Citrus-Quinoa Salad and Mustard Vinaigrette<br />
<b>Day 2 (T)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 3 (W)</b> -- Sunbasket Vietnamese Shrimp Salad<br />
<b>Day 4 (Th)</b> -- Sunbasket Lettuce-Wrapped Turkey Burgers with Tarragon Mayo<br />
<b>Day 5 (F)</b> -- <a href="https://fivesilverspoons.com/pesto-salmon/">Easy Foil Baked Pesto Salmon</a>; cauliflower gnocchi; salad<br />
<b>Day 6 (Sat) </b>-- out<br />
<b>Day 7 (Sun) </b>-- out<br />
<br />
<b>Day 71 (M)</b> -- grilled filet mignon; twice-baked potatoes; roasted broccoli<br />
<b>Day 72 (T) </b>-- Sunbasket Lamb Kofte with Tomato Relish and Tzatziki<br />
<b>Day 73 (W)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 74 (Th)</b> -- Sunbasket Shrimp Tacos Diablo with Cabbage Slaw and Queso Fresco<br />
<b>Day 75 (F)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 76 (Sat)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 77 (Sun)</b> -- out<br />
<br />
<b>Day 78 (M)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 79 (T)</b> -- brinner -- scrambled eggs; smoked salmon; salad<br />
<b>Day 80 (W)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 81 (Th)</b> -- <a href="https://www.corriecooks.com/instant-pot-moroccan-meatballs/">Instant Pot Moroccan Meatballs</a><br />
<b>Day 82 (F)</b> -- <a href="https://www.foodiecrush.com/easy-chicken-gyros-with-tzatziki-sauce/">Easy Chicken Gyro with Tzatziki Sauce</a><br />
<b>Day 83 (Sat)</b> -- steamed crab dinner<br />
<b>Day 84 (Sun)</b> -- out<br />
<br />
<b>Day 85 (M) </b>-- grilled burgers; salad<br />
<b>Day 86 (T)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 87 (W)</b> -- Sunbasket Cantina-Style Chicken Tacos with Roasted Red Peppers<br />
<b>Day 88 (Th) </b>-- BBQ grilled chicken; quinoa; salad<br />
<b>Day 89 (F) </b>-- out<br />
<b>Day 90 (Sat)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 91 (Sun)</b> -- <a href="https://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/panko-chicken-parmesan">Panko Chicken Parmesan </a><br />
<br />
<b>Day 92 (M) </b>-- leftovers<br />
<b>Day 93 (T)</b> -- Sunbasket Shichimi-Spiced Salmon with Blistered Tomato and Black-Eyed Pea Salad<br />
<b>Day 94 (W)</b> -- Trader Joe's bolognese; cauliflower gnocchi; salad<br />
<b>Day 95 (Th) </b>-- out<br />
<b>Day 96 (F)</b> -- Sunbasket Pork Fried Rice with Carrots and Peas<br />
<b>Day 97 (Sat) </b>-- out<br />
<b>Day 98 (Sun)</b> -- out<br />
<br />
<b>Day 99 (M)</b> -- <a href="https://www.asaucykitchen.com/instant-pot-chicken-carnitas/">Instant Pot Chicken Carnitas</a><br />
<b>Day 100 (T)</b> -- Sunbasket Summer Steak Salad with Strawberries and Spiced Chickpeas<br />
<b>Day 101 (W)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 102 (Th)</b> -- Sunbasket Chicken Breast with Charred Romaine and Stone Fruit-Almond Salsa<br />
<b>Day 103 (F)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 104 (Sat)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 105 (Sun) </b>-- out<br />
<br />
<b>Day 106 (M)</b> -- filet mignon; salad; cauliflower gnocchi<br />
<b>Day 107 (T)</b> -- <a href="https://www.asaucykitchen.com/instant-pot-chicken-carnitas/">Instant Pot Chicken Carnitas</a>; salad<br />
<b>Day 108 (W)</b> -- <a href="https://meaningfuleats.com/instant-pot-bbq-chicken/">Instant Pot BBQ Chicken</a>; Lemony Avocado Slaw<br />
<b>Day 109 (Th)</b> -- grilled chicken; brown rice; snap peas<br />
<b>Day 110 (F)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 111 (Sat)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 112 (Sun)</b> -- out<br />
<br />
<b>Day 113 (M)</b> -- filet mignon; cauliflower gnocchi; green beans<br />
<b>Day 114 (T)</b> -- Lettuce-Wrapped Turkey Burgers with Tarragon Mayo<br />
<b>Day 115 (W)</b> -- leftovers<br />
<b>Day 116 (Th)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 117 (F)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 118 (Sat)</b> -- grilled steak, pasta salad, corn<br />
<b>Day 119 (Sun)</b> -- out<br />
<br />
<b>Day 120 (M)</b> -- BBQ grilled chicken; roasted tomato and broccoli; cauliflower gnocchi<br />
<b>Day 121 (T)</b> -- Sunbasket Bell Peppers with Turkey and Black Beans<br />
<b>Day 122 (W)</b> -- Sunbasket Chipotle Chilaquiles with Black Beans<br />
<b>Day 123(Th)</b> -- <a href="https://theskinnyishdish.com/chicken-street-tacos-life/">Chicken Street Tacos</a><br />
<b>Day 124 (F)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 125 (Sat)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 126 (Sun)</b> -- <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/skirt-steak-with-chimichurri-sauce">Skirt Steak with Chimichurri</a>; asparagus; cauliflower gnocchi<br />
<br />
<b>Day 127 (M)</b> -- brinner - scrambled eggs; smoked salmon; salad<br />
<b>Day 128 (T)</b> -- filet mignon; cauliflower gnocchi; green beans<br />
<b>Day 129 (W)</b> -- <a href="https://www.halfbakedharvest.com/instant-pot-spicy-pineapple-chicken-tacos/">Instant Pot Spicy Pineapple Chicken Tacos</a>; salad<br />
<b>Day 130 (Th)</b> -- Black Pepper Chicken Sausages; chick pea pasta<br />
<b>Day 131 (F)</b> -- Baked Salmon Cakes; salad<br />
<b>Day 132 (Sat)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 133 (Sun)</b> -- out<br />
<br />
<b>Day 134 (M)</b> -- out<br />
<b>Day 135 (T)</b> -- <a href="https://www.skinnytaste.com/zaatar-lamb-chops/">Za'atar Pork Chops</a><br />
<b>Day 136 (W)</b> -- brinner<br />
<b>Day 137 (Th)</b> -- <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/instant-pot-chicken-noodle-soup-5195671">Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup</a><br />
<b>Day 138 (F)</b> -- <a href="https://pinchofyum.com/spicy-shrimp-tacos-with-garlic-cilantro-lime-slaw">Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Garlic Cilantro Lime Slaw </a><br />
<b>Day 139 (Sat)</b> -- <a href="http://www.dinneralovestory.com/back-pocket-bolognese/">Back-Pocket Bolognese</a>; polenta<br />
<b>Day 140 (Sun)</b> -- outNot-So-SAHMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01449442571749036593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7050866223284067912.post-33892009727333440512019-09-06T09:13:00.003-04:002019-09-10T19:56:01.051-04:00Belgium + The Netherlands: Days 3 and 4 -- Bruges<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaY_hTItaD7ciTZE4tFdGURKrSHJ4-yYaMf7CTHBf4ZBXtYHon57YBhjFZ03SkYln2oPcj8xfHaqzkpqnnqqr7K32-QsrofE4FG9c1acpslDVV3t209YHnOjE0vGKIHbx_VpjKJJy6gjYp/s1600/IMG_5501.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaY_hTItaD7ciTZE4tFdGURKrSHJ4-yYaMf7CTHBf4ZBXtYHon57YBhjFZ03SkYln2oPcj8xfHaqzkpqnnqqr7K32-QsrofE4FG9c1acpslDVV3t209YHnOjE0vGKIHbx_VpjKJJy6gjYp/s1600/IMG_5501.jpg" /></a></div>
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We had plans to take Belgium commuter trains from Brussels to Bruges and Bruges to Antwerp. But after a mere two days of schlepping everyone around Brussels, we decided to take one of our taxi drivers up on his offer to drive us to Bruges instead (I checked around to make sure it was a comparable price to hiring another private transport). There was definitely traffic, but it was probably still less time than doing the whole train thing -- especially since we prove incapable of packing lightly. The local trains do appear to be quite easy. You don't have to book them ahead of time and they leave about every 1/2 hour. So, maybe next time. But this time, with kids, we chose convenience.<br />
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I always like to try and work one apartment rental into a long trip. It's a nice change from a hotel and I only pick rentals with laundry so that we can clean all of our stuff at least half way through our trip. I really wanted to stay on a canal in Bruges, so we ended up picking <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/30199286?source_impression_id=p3_1567720824_2%2F%2Fgnaa%2FrpM9Pf%2Br">this Airbnb rental</a>. It wasn't fancy and the lack of air conditioning sucked given the unseasonably high temps, but the location was BANANAS (ivory building with the grey bottom and green door above). We took a tour the second day and our house was a stop as a quintessential Bruges canal house. So we didn't sleep awesome, but worth the excellent spot in town -- away from tourist center, but within walking distance of the sights, a market, and several great restaurants. Plus, I think I did ALL the laundry one could possibly do in two days.<br />
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We got quickly settled in and set off to try and make the last hour of the <a href="https://www.visitbruges.be/en/winkelen/naardemarkt">Saturday market -- 't Zand Market</a>. It was a huge market seemingly selling everything under the sun, but was in full break down mode by the time we got there. It was where we planned to eat lunch and everyone was getting hangry, so obviously we set off in search of <a href="http://www.degarre.be/">hard-to-find De Garre</a> -- home of the only sport in the world to serve Tripel Van De Garre on tap (a Belgian Tripel with 11% ABV). We eventually tracked it down and the beer was deeeeeeeelish! The kids were a little like "all they serve is cheese and salami to eat?!" Then they realized they loved both of those and acquiesced. Plus, we hit up <a href="https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=chez+albert+bruges&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8">Chez Albert</a> just outside for excellent waffles and tried Bruges frites from one of the stands at the base of the market tower (still not as awesome as we'd hoped). You know, just to balance the meal out.<br />
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I'd promised Joel we'd do at least one brewery tour on this trip, so we booked it over to <a href="https://www.halvemaan.be/en/home">De Halve Maan</a> to try and get into the last tour of the day. Again, I wasn't sure when we'd fit this in, so I didn't book tickets ahead of time. But it was no problem to purchase there. Because it was a weekend, they weren't actually brewing anything. It was still neat to check out this family-run facility and the view from the top was fantastic.<br />
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We lucked out and snagged a table in the courtyard after for more drinks and snacks (honestly, if you love bread, cheese, and charcuterie, you will never go hungry in Belgium). And the longest-running game of UNO ensued. We played through the deck at least five times with no winner. Eventually everyone's sweet tooth started whining and we headed to <a href="http://www.chocolatierdumon.be/">Dumon Chocolatier</a> for the absolute best chocolate we'd had in Belgium thus far (and actually would have for the rest of the trip as well). They don't ship to the US, which is probably a good thing because I would have bought the store. Go there.<br />
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It was hot out and I was over peak tourist traffic, so we headed back to our apartment to rest and clean up. I hadn't made any dinner reservations for that night, but we passed <a href="https://www.spinola.be/">Spinola</a> on our walk home and it had the cutest outdoor spot on the canal and a tasty-looking menu. So we called and were able to score a late table there. We had fresh fish and real vegetables -- Kane had an entire lobster, of course -- and everyone felt better!<br />
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Well into this vacation pattern of staying up late and sleeping in, I dragged everyone out of bed to make our "early" booked bike tour of 10:30 a.m. We were meeting <a href="https://www.pinkbear.be/">Mieke of Pink Bear Bikes</a> in the market square and grabbed a breakfast from the corner store on the way. We arrived to find lovely Mieke and another American couple (who had previously lived in DC too, of course) and set off to pick up our bikes from Mieke's nearby garage. Mieke was super friendly, incredibly knowledgeable, and great with the kids. And this turned out to be maybe everyone's favorite day of our trip.<br />
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We rode along a completely charming canal to the nearby medieval town of Damme. We stopped at windmills (and even got to go up in one!), biked along poplar-lined paths, rode alongside horses, and stopped for much-needed beer and waffles in Damme. The kids were over the moon to ride bikes for four plus hours and I got to let them do it without trying to navigate where we were going while simultaneously making sure they didn't get run over.<br />
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It was incredibly fun and Mieke was so knowledgeable about all things Bruges -- the kids loved her story about how a dog saved Damme and now graces the town's flag and architecture. This is an absolute must do if you visit!<br />
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We asked Mieke where locals would go to eat a Saturday lunch and she said she'd head to <a href="http://www.estaminet-brugge.be/en/">L'Estaminet</a> (which was also on my list of restaurant options, so go me for finding a local love!). This typical "brown pub" is also close to one of the m<a href="https://www.visitbruges.be/highlights/rozenhoedkaai">ost photographed areas of the city</a>, but after we'd eaten, we had other plans! Mieke had also given us a heads up that there was one spot in the canals that allowed swimming. WHAT!?<br />
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She showed us where on a map, but I couldn't find the same spot online. I found something online called the Canal Swimmer's Club, but then we couldn't find that physical location. We popped into a local hotel and they directed us to the only spot one could currently swim. It turned out to be just a few minutes walk from our apartment, but I definitely could not direct anyone to it again. And it seems like it might change year to year. So if you visit Bruges, ask someone in the know!<br />
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There was a floating dock and lifeguards and FREEZING canal water that felt amazing after riding in the heat all day. And it was filled with local families, so it was nice to stay out of the touristy path for more time.<br />
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I had reservations for dinner at <a href="http://www.restaurantdestove.be/en/menu">De Stove</a>, but by the time we finished swimming and cleaning up, we'd missed that. We walked a bit and found nearby <a href="https://www.brasserieforestiere.be/">Brasserie Forestiere</a> for a late and delicious last meal in Bruges!<br />
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As with <a href="https://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2019/09/belgium-netherlands-days-1-2-brussels.html">Brussels</a>, here's what else topped my list that we didn't get to:<br />
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<b>Activities + Sights</b>:<br />
- <a href="https://www.visitbruges.be/en/belfort-belfry">The Belfry Tower</a><br />
- <a href="https://visit-bruges.be/see/places-interest/lake-love-minnewater-and-lovers-bridge">Lake of Love</a><br />
- <a href="http://torturemuseum.be/">Torture Museum</a> (Kane was pushing hard for this)<br />
- <a href="https://visit-bruges.be/see/churches/basilica-holy-blood">Basilica of the Holy Blood </a><br />
- <a href="https://www.visitbruges.be/en/kantcentrum-lace-centre">Lace Center</a><br />
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<b>Food + Bars</b>:<br />
- <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g188671-d6981520-Reviews-2be_in_Brugge_The_Beerwall-Bruges_West_Flanders_Province.html">2be</a> Beer Wall (also a museum of beer)<br />
- <a href="http://www.bardesamis.be/">Bar Des Amis</a><br />
- <a href="https://www.lonelyplanet.com/belgium/bruges/restaurants/a/poi-eat/358711">Good list of other restaurants</a>Not-So-SAHMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01449442571749036593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7050866223284067912.post-84656487077367059332019-09-04T13:21:00.000-04:002019-09-04T13:35:14.098-04:00Belgium + The Netherlands: Days 1 + 2 -- Brussels<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am still fighting jet lag (or maybe it's just back-to-school malaise), but it's been a few years since we took a big family vacation of just the four of us, so I am intent on getting through our Beligum & the Netherlands photos! We spent our last bit of summer visiting three Belgium cities and Amsterdam over about ten days. It. Was. Awesome.<br />
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Don't get me wrong, there was plenty of bickering, whining, and emotional/physical insults and injuries. But, despite all of that, we had a total blast. We kicked off our trip by flying into Brussels, Belgium. We took a red eye in and went straight to our hotel. We'd booked the Hilton Brussels Grand Place because we had a ton of points and wanted to book the night before so we could take a nap as soon as we arrived. The hotel was nothing special, but we had a big-sized room with two bathrooms (hard to find in Europe!) and it was right smack in the middle of all the touristy stuff one would want to do.<br />
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We took a quick nap and set off on the <a href="https://amzn.to/2NMq02i">Rick Steves' Belgium self-guided Grand Place walking tour </a>(ALWAYS my first place to start when planning a vacation). I'm sure a lot of it was jet lag, but Brussels seemed more difficult to find our way around than other European cities we've visited. We headed first to Grand Place -- the town's main market square. It was super crowded, but lined with beautiful buildings.<br />
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Hunger set in quickly and we walked to the St. Catherine neighborhood (just off of super touristy area and full of good restaurants/bars) to check out either <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g188644-d5027104-Reviews-Fishbar_Noordzee_Mer_du_Nord-Brussels.html">Fishbar Nordzee</a> or Cremerie De Linkebeek for lunch -- both were recommended by multiple places I check. But frites + beer were really what everyone wanted, so we popped into nearby <a href="http://www.fritesatelier.com/en/">Frites Atelier</a> (a chain, but tasty) to chill everyone out.<br />
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As an aside, for planning trip eating, I look at Rick Steves, but don't always love his restaurant recommendations. So I always also check <a href="https://www.eater.com/belgium">Eater</a> (all of the European cities aren't always as current as the states, but it's still a good place to start), <a href="https://www.timeout.com/brussels">Time Out</a>, Lonely Planet, <a href="https://www.frommers.com/destinations/brussels/restaurants/overview">Frommers</a>, and <a href="https://indianajo.com/where-to-eat-and-drink-in-brussels.html">bloggers</a>. This wasn't a vacation really planned around food (sometimes we do travel like that), but I kept a running list of options for lunch and also made reservations most evenings for dinner (although we often didn't keep them because we were feeling something else). I like plans on plans on plans, so I'll include a list at the end of the post of all the other food and activity options on my radar, even though we didn't actually do them.<br />
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The kids were anxious to move on to the Manneken-Pis -- a statue made in 1619 to provide drinking water and now a symbol for low-key Brussels and a serious tourist destination. It was also tiny. We'd heard it was smaller than everyone expected, but the kids just thought that was the funniest thing ever.<br />
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So we went out in search of bigger and better things: <a href="https://www.comicscenter.net/en/">The Belgian Comic Strip Center.</a> Comics are big in Belgium and it's the birthplace of some of the most popular comic characters, including the Smurfs and Tintin. I wasn't sure if we'd get to it the first day, so I didn't purchase tickets ahead of time, but we had no problem getting right in. It's a smallish museum and I didn't think it was anything special, but the kids loved it (including the museum which has a serious number of comics available to read in all sorts of languages).<br />
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I've mentioned in the past about how each of our vacations seems to be dominated by a few themes. This trip it was an ongoing A-Z game (animals, cities, mythical creatures, etc.), Cami's photography (I let her use an old i-Phone as a camera), and the sudden need of both kids to wear baseball caps incessantly.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk4tZw2XL9QSHZDAusYkBy2mLwJR1a-ZYdHr4Rpz6k6VCXwNAzxX5iBUL20ijS7LvKtNHGlavds9_sSB0DwLETcE1WZiG_kxOYNE3W6gL53pWvi-51lgH1DuP0Ty8N9zKzm5vNHsmmr4w9/s1600/IMG_5098.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk4tZw2XL9QSHZDAusYkBy2mLwJR1a-ZYdHr4Rpz6k6VCXwNAzxX5iBUL20ijS7LvKtNHGlavds9_sSB0DwLETcE1WZiG_kxOYNE3W6gL53pWvi-51lgH1DuP0Ty8N9zKzm5vNHsmmr4w9/s1600/IMG_5098.jpg" /></a>In need of something more to help us power through jet lag, we moved on to chocolate! There are a million chocolate shops but we started out at <a href="https://elisabeth.be/">Elisabeth</a>, which seemed more artisanal and local than other options. DELICIOUS and pepped everyone up.<br />
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We walked a bit more, but went back to the hotel to rest a bit before dinner. Our original plan was to go to either <a href="https://bonsoirclara.com/en">Bonsoir Clara</a> or <a href="https://www.lonelyplanet.com/belgium/brussels/restaurants/fin-de-siecle/a/poi-eat/1261174/358708">Fin de Siecle</a>, but everyone wanted moules + frites (see a theme here?!). We headed back towards the fish market area to <a href="https://www.lamaree-sa.com/en/">La Mareé</a> -- there were no outdoor seats available, but inside was bustling and just as yummy. The mussels were 100, but frites slightly disappointing (would be another theme to our trip). Post-din, the kids wanted waffles, so we hit up <a href="https://www.loschurros.com/">Loschurros & Waffles </a>(seemed cheesy, but they were making them fresh, which we knew to look for). Kids reported that they were amazing.<br />
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Once they were happily chowing, we walked to the Guinness World Record holder of beer: <a href="https://www.deliriumvillage.com/bar/delirium-cafe/">Delirium Cafe.</a> It reminded me of a frat party in Diagon Alley, so I stayed outside with the kids and sent Joel in to get beers. I wish I'd written down all the different beer we tried, but needless to say, they were almost universally awesome. Stuffed and happy, we walked back to our hotel for bed!<br />
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Our second day started with waffles (at L<a href="https://love-ciabatta.be/">ove Ciabatta</a>) en route to <a href="https://fine-arts-museum.be/en/museums">The Royal Museum of Fine Arts of Belgium.</a> Actually comprised of three different museums, it hits Old Masters, turn-of-the-century art, and works by René Magritte (the Belgian surrealist). I'd purchased tickets ahead of time for all three (kids are free, but stop at the front desk to have a ticket printed for them -- you have to scan them in as you move through the three museums).<br />
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I was surprised at how much some of the Dutch Masters looked surrealesque to me. We spent a fair amount of time going through the Old Masters (audio tours always help with the kids), but no one was much into the other two museums. In fact, I'd probably skip those two unless you're really into them. </div>
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Having spent too much time inside on a beautiful day, we got to walking and discovered nearby <a href="https://visit.brussels/en/place/Mont-des-Arts-Gardens">Mont des Arts Gardens</a>. I took advantage of the kids' arguing over who could use my camera to actually get in a few photos. We also popped into the <a href="https://visit.brussels/en/place/Comic-Strip-House-shopping">Comic Strip House</a> to pick up a few new reads for them. </div>
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We were all hungry, but wanted to stay outside, so we Uber'ed over to T<a href="https://visit.brussels/en/place/Bois-de-la-Cambre">he Bois de la Cambre</a> to have lunch at Chalet Robinson -- on a tiny island in the middle of a park lake! The food wasn't anything spectacular, but it was a unique spot. The kids had been all over us about renting bikes and we took advantage of the park trails to do so -- we rented a few Jump bikes and one electric scooter and let them have at it for a while. </div>
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I was sort of cranky about the morning's art trip and wanted to check out something more fun and modern. <a href="http://www.mimamuseum.eu/">MIMA </a>had been on my radar and it was located in a funky and revitalizing part of town. After getting cleaned up, we hightailed it over there. Unfortunately, my French sucks and I'd misread the hours -- we arrived minutes after it closed. AGH. It wasn't something I'd planned on, so it wasn't that big of a deal. We walked around the neighborhood in search of a beverage and stopped into nearby Brussels Beer Project.<br />
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Hungry again, I'd planned on visiting the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/March%C3%A9-De-La-Place-Des-Chasseurs-Ardennais-214106638617387/">Friday night market of Chasseurs Ardenais</a> -- word was that was how the locals kicked off their weekend. It was JAMMING with families -- parents hitting up the bar and then bread and charcuterie for the kids. We had a drink but wanted something more substantial for dinner (the market is definitely worth visiting though!) so we headed to <a href="http://www.nonalife.com/">NONA</a> -- a Neapolitan pizza restaurant we'd spied walking through the St. Catherine neighborhood. The line was down the block, but we put our name in and headed to <a href="http://www.monk.be/">Bar Monk</a> (which I also had on my list) for a quick drink. Apparently they'd told Joel not to leave the NONA area and called our name while we were gone, but they took pity on us and gave us a seat inside anyway. Pizza was YUM!<br />
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And, not to miss out on a waffle opportunity, the kids grabbed waffles on our walk back at <a href="https://www.belgiumwaffle.com/">Gaufres de Bruxelles</a> -- a touristy, but totally fine waffle shop. And that rounded out our stay in Brussels! We had a great time, but I think you could definitely do Brussels in just one day -- hard if you come in on a red eye, but .... That being said, in addition to those mentioned above, here are the handful of other things I had on my list that we didn't get to!<br />
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<b>Activities + Sights</b>:<br />
- <a href="https://www.fine-arts-museum.be/en/museums/musee-modern-museum">Museé Modern Art </a><br />
- <a href="https://www.cantillon.be/">Brasserie Cantillion</a> brewery<br />
- <a href="https://visit.brussels/en/place/Atomium">Atomium </a><br />
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<b>Food + Bars</b>:<br />
- <a href="https://alamortsubite.com/en/">A La Mort Subite</a><br />
- <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Mokaf%C3%A9-1565011460451527/">Mokafé</a> for waffles <br />
- <a href="https://www.biamara.com/menu">Bia Mare</a>Not-So-SAHMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01449442571749036593noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7050866223284067912.post-40258969156004292702019-08-13T17:15:00.001-04:002019-08-13T20:14:30.438-04:00Beaver Island, Michigan: 2019<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's been quite a long while since I took real photos of any family activities. Partly because I've been photographing a bunch for work stuff so photos for fun just also seemed like work, partly because I just haven't had much interest or time to blog (obviously), and partly just because I upgraded to a new camera a few years ago and wasn't super happy with the switch (right before our California trip, which photos I never finished editing for that very reason).<br />
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But we just took a big family trip to one of my favorite childhood vacation spots and I decided to give it another try. I didn't spend as much time taking photos as I normally do on vacation, but I thought easing back in would work better. And part of the reason I used to love to blog was that it encouraged me to spend time working on photos to share them, so here I am again!<br />
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You might remember our family trip to <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/search?q=beaver+island">Beaver Island, Michigan</a> five years ago. It was such a special trip because it was the first visit for our kids. This year, we did a trip with a lot of my family -- 16 people in all, 8 of them kids! We rented a big former B&B and had a blast.<br />
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It's not an easy place to get to, which I think is part of the charm. This time we flew DC --> Newark --> Traverse City. Then drove to Charlevoix. Then took the ferry to Beaver Island. It was a long day of travel made more anxious by a delay in our connecting flight -- you have to book the ferry (if you're bringing a car) on the day ferry reservations open in December and so there is not really any room for error. But we made it to Charlevoix on time and found a great brewery at the ferry terminal that will can any beer you want to carry on the trip.<br />
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There was lots of time once we arrived communicating among the cousins via walkie talkie.<br />
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My mom built a frame to make a seed quilt and all the kids gathered nature materials and spent time over the week "weaving." It turned out beautifully and we left it at the Island's historical center.<br />
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The house was right on the most perfect beach to kayak, paddle board, and generally cousin shenanigan.<br />
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I spotted the cutest <a href="https://www.artcampla.com/new-blog/hand-painted-fish-softies">Hand-Painted Fish Softies on the Art Camp blog </a>and asked my mom to bring the supplies with her. They turned out so awesome -- we're going to make more at home soon and I'll share our steps.<br />
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We took Kane, Cami, and my dad out for an early morning of fishing with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KellyDayCharters/">Captain Bob Turner of Kelly Day Charters</a>. Caught nothing for the first three hours and then both kids reeled in some big Lake Trout! I cooked it two ways for dinner: grilled with butter and herbs and Captain's suggested "Poor Man's Lobster" -- I should have "lobstered" it all, it was a delicious way to cook it (bring 3 quarters, 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup salt to a rolling boil. Cut fish from skin and into 1" chunks. Add fish, cover, and boil for 15 minutes. Sprinkle with Old Bay and broil for just a few minutes).<br />
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No trip to the island is ever complete without a hike down to our childhood cabin -- she still looks 100%!<br />
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And so much of the week was spent letting the kids roam about, creating games and getting allllllll the fresh air they could handle. The adults spent a lot of time catching up, cooking, and imbibing. Until next time, Emerald Isle!<br />
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<br />Not-So-SAHMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01449442571749036593noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7050866223284067912.post-54639118275902570882019-03-01T05:00:00.000-05:002019-03-01T05:00:14.895-05:00One-Skillet Pork Chops with Apples + 60 Days of Dinner! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It seems the only thing I can get together to post on the blog these days are recipes, but that's just where we are right now. The kids are busy with school and all manner of extracurricular activities. I am busy schlepping them to all of that and a have fair amount of freelance work myself too. But everyone needs to eat, so recipes to share I have. Everyone in our house loves pork chops and this is such a fast but super flavorful meal for weeknights. I often toss some potatoes in a hot oven to roast while I make a salad or veg to have with these chops. Easy peasy.<br />
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The first 30 days is Whole30 compliant (we did it!) and the second 30 days are not Whole30, but still super clean. Also, I just got an Instant Pot. I really resisted it given that I already have a slow cooker and am trying to Marie Kondo our house. But, so far, pretty happy with it!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>One-Skillet Pork Chops with Apples</b> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(slightly adapted from <a href="https://www.paleorunningmomma.com/pork-chops-apples-paleo-whole30/">Paleo Running Momma</a>)</div>
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<b>Ingredients</b>:<br />
- 4-5 bone-in pork chops<br />
- sea salt and black pepper to sprinkle on chops<br />
- 3/4 tsp onion powder<br />
- 3/4 tsp cinnamon<br />
- 3 tbsp ghee divided in half<br />
- 1 large crisp-sweet apple, cored and sliced to 1/4" thickness<br />
- 1/2 red onion<br />
- 1 cup chicken bone broth<br />
- 2 tsp spicy brown mustard<br />
- 2 tsp fresh rosemary, minced<br />
- 1 tbsp fresh sage, minced<br />
<ul class="wprm-recipe-ingredients" style="-webkit-margin-after: 0px; -webkit-margin-before: 0px; -webkit-padding-start: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(35, 31, 32); color: #231f20; font-family: "Source Sans Pro", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px 0px 12px; padding: 0px;"></ul>
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<b>Directions</b>:<br />
1. Season pork chops on both sides with salt and pepper, onion powder, and cinnamon, rubbing spices in to coat.<br />
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2. Heat a large, heavy skillet over medium high heat and add 1 1/2 tbsp ghee.<br />
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3. Add pork chops to hot skillet and brown on each side 3 minutes (they won't be fully cooked yet). Then remove to a plate and set aside.<br />
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4. Lower heat to medium and add remaning ghee to melt. Add apples and onions to skillet and cook, stir occasionally, about 2 minutes, until beginning to soften.<br />
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5. Sprinkle apples lightly with sea salt and pepper, then add broth and mustard, plus fresh herbs, stir to combine, scraping up any bits that stuck to your skillet.<br />
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6. Return pork chops to skillet, making room for them by pushing apples and onions aside/around them. Continue to simmer over medium heat until pork chops are cooked through -- about 2 minutes or so, depending on how thick they were to start. Serve chops topped with sauce and apples + onions.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
* * *</div>
<br />
Day 1 (T) -- <a href="https://www.paleorunningmomma.com/chicken-pesto-stuffed-sweet-potatoes-paleo-whole30/#respond">Chicken Pesto Stuffed Sweet Potatoes</a>; green beans<br />
Day 2 (W) -- <a href="https://simply-delicious-food.com/beef-ragu-parmesan-gnocchi/">Beef Ragu</a> (skip the gnocchi for Whole30); <a href="http://www.thedefineddish.com/whole30-mashed-potatoes/">Whole30 Mashed Potatoes</a>; salad<br />
Day 3 (Th) -- <a href="http://clubnarwhalblog.com/2015/10/easy-apple-cider-pork-chops.html/">Easy Apple Cider Pork Chops</a>; roasted cauliflower; roasted sweet potatoes<br />
Day 4 (F) -- <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/search?q=stifatho+greek+stew">Stifatho</a> (skip cheese); cauliflower rice; salad<br />
Day 5 (Sat) -- <a href="https://thefamilyfreezer.com/2016/08/24/crockpot-italian-pork-roast-recipe/">Crockpot Italian Pork Roast</a>; <a href="http://www.thedefineddish.com/whole30-mashed-potatoes/">Whole30 Mashed Potatoes</a>; salad<br />
Day 6 (Sun) -- <a href="http://www.thedefineddish.com/loaded-whole30-sweet-potato-fries/">Loaded Sweet Potato Fries</a>; <a href="https://thecleaneatingcouple.com/5-healthy-chicken-marinades/">Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken</a>; roasted cauliflower<br />
<br />
Day 7 (M) -- <a href="https://themovementmenu.com/recipes/whole30-chili/">Whole30 Chili</a> (I used ground beef and pork sausage); salad<br />
Day 8 (T) -- <a href="https://nurturemygut.com/tender-beef-stew-potatoes-carrots.html/">Tender Beef Stew with Potatoes and Carrots</a><br />
Day 9 (W) -- Brinner: pesto egg scramble; sausage; fries; roasted tomatoes<br />
Day 10 (Th) -- grilled filet mignon; baked potato; roasted broccoli<br />
Day 11 (F) -- <a href="https://www.wholesomeyum.com/recipes/copycat-chipotle-barbacoa-slow-cooker-low-carb-paleo/">Slow Cooker Chipotle Beef Barbacoa</a><br />
Day 12 (Sat) -- leftovers<br />
Day 13 (Sun) -- leftovers<br />
<br />
Day 14 (M) -- <a href="http://www.wholesomelicious.com/beef-enchilada-bake-cilantro-avocado-cream-sauce-paleo-whole30/">Beef Enchilada Bake with Cilantro Avocado Cream Sauce</a><br />
Day 15 (T) -- <a href="https://www.howsweeteats.com/2016/08/chicken-tinga-tacos-with-grilled-corn-guac/">Chicken Tinga Tacos</a> on salad<br />
Day 16 (W) -- <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2017/11/all-american-chili-30-days-of-dinner.html">All American Chili </a>(no beans, used extra ground beef); brussels sprouts<br />
Day 17 (Th) -- <a href="https://www.wholekitchensink.com/diy-chicken-marinades/">Grilled Balsamic Marinated Chicken</a>; sweet potato fries; green beans <br />
Day 18 (F) -- leftovers<br />
Day 19 (Sat) -- had "taco bar" for dinner party -- <a href="https://downshiftology.com/recipes/carne-asada/">Carne Asada</a>; <a href="https://www.howsweeteats.com/2016/08/chicken-tinga-tacos-with-grilled-corn-guac/">Chicken Tinga</a>; a platter of Whole30-compliant salad fixings<br />
Day 20 (Sun) -- <a href="http://www.cooksandkid.com/spicy-beef-and-lamb-kofta/">Spicy Beef and Lamb Kofta</a>; zucchini noodles<br />
<br />
Day 21 (M) -- dinner out<br />
Day 22 (T) -- leftovers<br />
Day 23 (W) -- dinner out<br />
Day 24 (Th) -- <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2019/01/slow-cooker-greek-beef-stew-with.html">Slow Cooker Greek Beef Stew with Gremolata</a><br />
Day 25 (F) -- <a href="https://www.paleorunningmomma.com/balsamic-pork-chops-paleo-whole30/">Balsamic Pork Chops with Sweet Potatoes and Apples </a><br />
Day 26 (Sat) -- grilled filet mignon; roasted potatoes; salad<br />
Day 27 (Sun) -- dinner out<br />
<br />
Day 28 (M) -- leftovers<br />
Day 29 (T) -- <a href="https://fitslowcookerqueen.com/slow-cooker-piri-piri-chicken/">Slow Cooker Piri-Piri Chicken</a>; roasted green beans<br />
Day 30 (W) -- <a href="https://cookeatpaleo.com/crock-pot-turkey-bolognese-sauce/">Crock Pot Turkey Bolognese</a> over Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi<br />
Day 31 (Th) -- <a href="https://livingwellmom.com/healing-paleo-chicken-soup/">Nurturing Paleo Chicken Soup</a><br />
Day 32 (F) -- <a href="https://downshiftology.com/recipes/carne-asada/">Carne Asada</a>; roasted broccoli; sweet potato fries<br />
Day 33 (Sat) -- dinner out<br />
Day 34 (Sun) -- SUPERBOWL! <a href="https://paleoglutenfree.com/recipes/paleo-bacon-garlic-avocado-burger/">Paleo Bacon Garlic Avocado Burger</a>; baked french fries<br />
<br />
Day 35 (M) -- <a href="https://livingwellmom.com/healing-paleo-chicken-soup/">Nurturing Paleo Chicken Soup</a><br />
Day 36 (T) -- leftover Bolognese with cauliflower gnocchi; salad<br />
Day 37 (W) -- <a href="https://www.aspicyperspective.com/instant-pot-italian-beef/">Instant Pot Italian Beef</a>; cauliflower rice; roasted broccoli<br />
Day 38 (Th) -- <a href="https://www.paleorunningmomma.com/chicken-pesto-stuffed-sweet-potatoes-paleo-whole30/#respond">Chicken Pesto Stuffed Sweet Potatoes</a>; roasted cauliflower<br />
Day 39 (F) -- grilled Filet Mignon; baked potatoes; sautéed green beans<br />
Day 40 (Sat) -- dinner out<br />
Day 41 (Sun) -- leftovers<br />
<br />
Day 42 (M) -- <a href="https://fitslowcookerqueen.com/slow-cooker-bbq-brisket-paleo-whole30/">Slow Cooker BBQ Brisket</a>; baked potatoes; sautéed green beans<br />
Day 43 (T) -- <a href="https://itsavegworldafterall.com/sheet-pan-orange-glazed-salmon-broccolini/">Sheet Pan Orange Glazed Salmon and Broccolini </a><br />
Day 44 (W) -- One-Skillet Pork Chops with Apples; roasted sweet potatoes; salad<br />
Day 45 (Th) -- leftover brisket; salad<br />
Day 46 (F) -- <a href="http://www.thedefineddish.com/the-best-taco-meat/">Beef Tacos</a>; rice; roasted carrots<br />
Day 47 (Sat) -- dinner out<br />
Day 48 (Sun) -- <a href="https://www.wholekitchensink.com/diy-chicken-marinades/">Grilled Balsamic Marinated Chicken</a>; roasted sweet potatoes; roasted broccoli<br />
<br />
Day 49 (M) -- Taco Dinner with Friends! <a href="https://www.aspicyperspective.com/best-slow-cooker-carnitas/">Slow Cooker Carnitas</a>; <a href="https://www.wellplated.com/flank-steak-tacos/">Flank Steak Tacos</a>; <a href="https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/homemade-mexican-crema-356271">Mexican Crema</a>; rice; <a href="https://sugarandcharm.com/2014/07/mexican-style-fruit-plate-with-chili-lime-salt.html">Fruit Plate with Chili Lime Salt</a>; <a href="https://www.wellplated.com/skinny-margarita">Skinny Margaritas</a><br />
Day 50 (T) -- leftovers<br />
Day 51 (W) -- grilled Filet Mignon; roasted potatoes; salad <br />
Day 52 (Th) -- <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2017/11/all-american-chili-30-days-of-dinner.html">All American Chili</a><br />
Day 53 (F) -- <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2017/01/chicken-shawarma-naan-salad-with-sweet.html">Chicken Shawarma Naan Salad with Sweet Potato Fries </a><br />
Day 54 (Sat) -- dinner out<br />
Day 55 (Sun) -- dinner out<br />
<br />
Day 56 (M) -- <a href="https://www.thekitchn.com/recipe-slow-cooker-brisket-and-onions-recipes-from-the-kitchn-45437">Slow Cooker Brisket and Onions</a> (although I prefer to follow the oven cooking directions); gnocchi; green beans <br />
Day 57 (T) -- <a href="http://kitscoastal.com/one-pan-garlic-lovers-shrimp-veggies/">One Pan Garlic Lovers' Shrimp and Veggies</a>; rice <br />
Day 58 (W) -- <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/instant-pot-salmon-with-garlic-potatoes-and-greens-3894814">Instant Pot Salmon with Garlic Potatoes and Greens </a><br />
Day 59 (Th) -- One-Skillet Pork Chops with Apples; roasted carrots; polenta<br />
Day 60 (F) -- grilled Filet Mignon; <a href="https://www.thekitchn.com/instant-pot-baked-potatoes-261116">Instant Pot Baked Potatoes</a>; salad<br />
<br />
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Not-So-SAHMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01449442571749036593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7050866223284067912.post-72948747319482779312019-01-25T05:00:00.000-05:002019-01-25T09:07:03.542-05:00Slow Cooker Greek Beef Stew with Gremolata + 80 Days of Dinner <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
80 Days!? Apparently it's been quite a bit of time since I pulled a blog post together. I've continued trying to figure out a good plan for dinnertime as the kids have become busier and busier in the evenings. I've got a better handle on it now, and it includes a lot of soup, chili, and other slow cooker meals like this stew. Plus, leftovers are life. We're also nearing the end of our January Whole30, so I'll have a whole new slate of compliant meals up shortly. But this stew is one of them! I like to double this recipe (it still fits in my slow cooker when doubled) and freeze half of it. Don't skimp on the gremolata -- it adds a nice bright note and is a refreshing touch of citrus to the middle of winter meals. Everyone loves it and it gets better and better as you let it, well, stew.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Slow Cooker Greek Beef Stew with Gremolata</u></b><br />
(merged + adapted from <a href="https://kalynskitchen.com/mediterannean-beef-stew-with-rosemary/">Kalyn's Kitchen</a> and <a href="http://meljoulwan.com/2010/02/02/greek-beef-stew/">Melissa Joulwan</a>)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>Stew</u></b>: </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Ingredients</b>: </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
- 1 onion, diced </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
- 2 lbs trimmed beef stew meat, cut roughly into bite-sized pieces </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
- 1 cup beef stock</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes with juice </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
- 1 jar kalamata olives, roughly chopped </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
- 1/2 cup garlic cloves, roughly chopped </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
- 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh rosemary</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
- 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
- 1 small jar capers, drained </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
- fresh ground salt and black pepper to taste</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
- walnuts for serving (optional)</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Directions</b>: </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1. Heat small amount of olive oil in a skillet or dutch oven over medium-high heat. Cook diced onions about 5 minutes, until starting to brown. Add onions to the slow cooker.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
2. Add a little more oil, then add beef in batches, cooking until browned on all sides -- about 10-15 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pan -- you want the beef to brown nicely on all sides. Add the beef to the slow cooker. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
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3. Add 1 cup of beef stock to the pan and simmer a few minutes until slightly reduced, scraping up brown bits. Then add that stock to the slow cooker. </div>
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<br /></div>
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4. Add remaining ingredients to the slow cooker (except walnuts) and stir to combine well. Cook on low 8-10 hours. Season to taste and serve with walnuts and gremolata (below). </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>Gremolata</u></b>: </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves, finely minced (about 2 tbsp)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
- zest from 1 orange (about 2 tbsp)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
- 2 cloves garlic, minced </div>
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<br /></div>
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Mix all in a small bowl and sprinkle over stew before serving. </div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
* * *</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b>Day 1 (W)</b> - <a href="http://www.wholesomelicious.com/beef-enchilada-bake-cilantro-avocado-cream-sauce-paleo-whole30/">Beef Enchilada Bake with Cilantro Avocado Cream Sauce</a><br />
<b>Day 2 (Th)</b> - leftovers<br />
<b>Day 3 (F)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 4 (Sat)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 5 (Sun)</b> - <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2018/10/paleo-bbq-chicken-casserole-45-days-of.html">Paleo BBQ Chicken Casserole</a>; roasted cauliflower<br />
<br />
<b>Day 6 (M)</b> - <a href="https://www.skinnytaste.com/zaatar-lamb-chops/">Za'atar Lamb Chops</a> (although I used pork chops); <a href="https://www.skinnytaste.com/chopped-feta-salad/">Feta Chopped Salad</a>; breakfast potatoes<br />
<b>Day 7 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.wellplated.com/healthy-turkey-chili/">Healthy Turkey Chili </a><br />
<b>Day 8 (W)</b> - Plated Miso Salmon and Quinoa Bowls with Roasted Sweet Potatoes, Cucumber Salad, and Sriracha Mayo<br />
<b>Day 9 (Th)</b> - leftovers<br />
<b>Day 10 (F)</b> - <a href="https://www.halfbakedharvest.com/thyme-roasted-chicken/">Thyme Roasted Chicken with Grapes and Burrata</a><br />
<b>Day 11 (Sat)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 12 (Sun)</b> - dinner out<br />
<br />
<b>Day 13 (M)</b> - <a href="https://www.halfbakedharvest.com/pomodoro-shrimp/">Basil Pomodoro Shrimp</a> with Polenta; roasted broccoli<br />
<b>Day 14 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/slow-cooker-tacos-al-pastor/">Slow Cooker Tacos Al Pastor</a><br />
<b>Day 15 (W)</b> - brinner<br />
<b>Day 16 (Th)</b> - Kane's birthday dinner: filet mignon; baked potatoes; Caesar salad<br />
<b>Day 17 (F)</b> - leftovers<br />
<b>Day 18 (Sat)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 19 (Sun)</b> - <a href="https://www.paleorunningmomma.com/chicken-pesto-stuffed-sweet-potatoes-paleo-whole30/#respond">Chicken Pesto Stuffed Sweet Potatoes</a>; salad<br />
<br />
<b>Day 20 (M)</b> - <a href="https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/greek-fish-tacos-recipe/">Greek Fish Tacos</a><br />
<b>Day 21 (T)</b> - brinner<br />
<b>Day 22 (W)</b> - <a href="https://www.skinnytaste.com/grilled-flank-steak-with-chimichurri/">Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri</a>; sweet potato fries<br />
<b>Day 23 (Th)</b> - Salmon; roasted cauliflower; salad<br />
<b>Day 24 (F)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 25 (Sat)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 26 (Sun)</b> - dinner out<br />
<br />
<b>Day 27 (M)</b> - <a href="https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/easy-italian-chicken-skillet-recipe/">Easy Italian Chicken Skillet</a>; spaghetti squash<br />
<b>Day 28 (T)</b> - <a href="https://iwillnoteatoysters.com/grilled-steak-onion-salad/">Grilled Steak and Onion Salad</a>; mashed sweet potatoes; salad<br />
<b>Day 29 (W)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 30 (Th)</b> - <a href="https://livingwellmom.com/healing-paleo-chicken-soup/">Healing Paleo Chicken Soup</a>; roasted broccoli<br />
<b>Day 31 (F)</b> - <a href="https://www.halfbakedharvest.com/cider-apple-and-sage-roasted-pork-chops-with-brown-butter-gorgonzola-polenta/">Cider Apple and Sage Roasted Pork Chops</a>; polenta; broccoli<br />
<b>Day 32 (Sat)</b> - <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2017/11/all-american-chili-30-days-of-dinner.html">All American Chili</a><br />
<b>Day 33 (Sun)</b> - <a href="http://onehungrymama.com/2009/02/855/">10-Minute Lemon Thyme Scallops</a>; mashed sweet potatoes; green beans <br />
<br />
<b>Day 34 (M)</b> - <a href="https://www.halfbakedharvest.com/greek-lamb-meatballs-with-avocado-goddess-sauce/">Greek Lamb Meatballs with Avocado Goddess Sauce</a><br />
<b>Day 35 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.thekitchn.com/recipe-slow-cooker-maple-and-dijon-pot-roast-199490">Slow Cooker Maple and Dijon Pot Roast</a>; baked potatoes; salad<br />
<b>Day 36 (W)</b> - brinner<br />
<b>Day 37 (Th)</b> - leftovers<br />
<b>Day 38 (F)</b> - Plated Smoked Salmon Pizza with Whipped Goat Cheese, Capers, and Tomato; salad<br />
<b>Day 39 (Sat)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 40 (Sun)</b> - dinner out<br />
<br />
<b>Day 41 (M)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 42 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.paleorunningmomma.com/paleo-slow-cooker-bbq-chicken/">Smoky Paleo Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken</a>; sweet potatoes; green beans<br />
<b>Day 43 (W)</b> - Slow Cooker Greek Beef Stew with Gremolata<br />
<b>Day 44 (Th)</b> - <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2017/11/all-american-chili-30-days-of-dinner.html">All American Chili</a><br />
<b>Day 45 (F)</b> - <a href="http://www.cooksandkid.com/spicy-beef-and-lamb-kofta/">Spicy Lamb and Beef Kofta</a> with <a href="https://www.recipegirl.com/lamb-kofta/">Greek Yogurt Sauce</a>; roasted cauliflower<br />
<b>Day 46 (Sat)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 47 (Sun)</b> - <a href="https://www.thepaleochefstable.com/honey-garlic-pork-chops/">Honey Garlic Pork Chops</a>; cauliflower gnocchi; green beans<br />
<br />
<b>Day 48 (M)</b> - leftovers<br />
<b>Day 49 (T)</b> - <a href="https://livingwellmom.com/healing-paleo-chicken-soup/">Healing Paleo Chicken Soup</a>; salad<br />
<b>Day 50 (W)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 51 (Th)</b> - Thanksgiving!! For apps we had shrimp cocktail, charcuterie plate, and <a href="https://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/caviar-waffle-bites">Caviar Waffle Bites</a>. For din we had <a href="https://steelehousekitchen.com/roasted-turkey-breast-with-maple-bourbon-glaze">Maple Bourbon Glazed Turkey Breast</a>, <a href="https://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/caramelized-onion-bacon-gravy">Caramelized Onion + Bacon Gravy</a>, <a href="https://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/grapefruit-apricot-cranberry-relish-rosemary">Grapefruit-Apricot Cranberry Relish with Rosemary</a>, <a href="https://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/sausage-and-fennel-stuffing">Sausage + Fennel Stuffing</a>, Boxed Stuffing (for Joel!), <a href="https://www.thekitchn.com/recipe-creamy-spinach-bake-recipes-from-the-kitchn-215729">Creamy Spinach Bake</a>, <a href="https://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/roasted-beets-and-charred-green-beans">Roasted Beets + Charred Green Beans</a>, <a href="https://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/cinnamon-spiced-candied-sweet-potatoes">Cinnamon-Spiced Candied Sweet Potatoes</a>, <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/ultra-creamy-mashed-potatoes">Ultra Creamy Mashed Potatoes</a>, and rolls. And my in-laws brought a bunch of pies for dessert!<br />
<b>Day 52 (F)</b> - leftovers<br />
<b>Day 53 (Sat)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 54 (Sun)</b> - leftovers<br />
<br />
<b>Day 55 (M)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 56 (T)</b> - <a href="https://sweetcsdesigns.com/one-pot-cheesy-taco-skillet/">One Pot Cheesy Taco Skillet</a>; cauliflower<br />
<b>Day 57 (W)</b> - Blue Apron One-Pan Chicken and "Dumplings" with Carrots + Thyme<br />
<b>Day 58 (Th)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 59 (F)</b> - Blue Apron Seared Chicken and Sour Cherry Sauce<br />
<b>Day 60 (Sat)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 61 (Sun)</b> - dinner out<br />
<br />
<b>Day 62 (M)</b> - <a href="http://www.cooksandkid.com/spicy-beef-and-lamb-kofta/">Spicy Lamb and Beef Kofta</a> with <a href="https://www.recipegirl.com/lamb-kofta/">Greek Yogurt Sauce</a>; <a href="https://ohsweetbasil.com/easy-greek-pasta-salad-recipe/">Easy Greek Pasta Salad</a><br />
<b>Day 63 (T)</b> - <a href="https://livingwellmom.com/healing-paleo-chicken-soup/">Healing Paleo Chicken Soup</a><br />
<b>Day 64 (W)</b> - Blue Apron Seared Steaks with Loaded Mashed Potatoes<br />
<b>Day 65 (Th)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 66 (F)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 67 (Sat) </b>- dinner out<br />
<b>Day 68 (Sun)</b> - <a href="https://livingwellmom.com/healing-paleo-chicken-soup/">Healing Paleo Chicken Soup</a> and latkes<br />
<br />
<b>Day 69 (M)</b> - Blue Apron Za'atar-Spiced Chicken Pitas with Tzatziki & Pickled Peppers<br />
<b>Day 70 (T)</b> - <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2017/11/all-american-chili-30-days-of-dinner.html">All American Chili</a><br />
<b>Day 71 (W)</b> - Garlic-Basil Shrimp and Grits with Cherry Tomato Sauce<br />
<b>Day 72 (Th)</b> - <a href="http://www.wholesomelicious.com/beef-enchilada-bake-cilantro-avocado-cream-sauce-paleo-whole30/">Beef Enchilada Bake with Cilantro Avocado Cream Sauce</a><br />
<b>Day 73 (F)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 74 (Sat)</b> - Plated Sesame Beef Bowls with Snap Peas and Spinach<br />
<b>Day 75 (Sun)</b> - dinner out<br />
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<b>Day 76 (M)</b> - dinner out<br />
<b>Day 77 (T)</b> - C<a href="https://thefamilyfreezer.com/2016/03/30/cool-ranch-shredded-chicken-tacos-crockpot-recipe/">ool Ranch Shredded Chicken Tacos</a><br />
<b>Day 78 (W)</b> - Plated Blue Cheese Burgers with Caramelized Onions, Cranberries, and Brussels Sprouts<br />
<b>Day 79 (Th)</b> - <a href="https://www.skinnytaste.com/slow-cooker-paleo-jalapeno-popper/">Paleo Jalapeño Popper Chicken Chili</a><br />
<b>Day 80 (F)</b> - <a href="http://www.cooksandkid.com/spicy-beef-and-lamb-kofta/">Spicy Lamb and Beef Kofta </a>with <a href="https://www.recipegirl.com/lamb-kofta/">Greek Yogurt Sauce</a><br />
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<br />Not-So-SAHMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01449442571749036593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7050866223284067912.post-40408419442851740542018-10-03T10:06:00.000-04:002018-10-03T10:06:04.757-04:00Paleo BBQ Chicken Casserole + 45 Days of Dinner!! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj5JTtl4lcK5rgUVSOdW3iZ0LYOzks5NsBzI-QiiUgQtT8sNojhHQb-BVWORLTh90YIg2WNsi8cbVg-VDkTUg8zGxnfDU9jQiY78JOCzkM5OlE0py2M1HZV3MGggV_1_XdZDDOey9hyphenhyphenYE-/s1600/BBQ+casserole.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj5JTtl4lcK5rgUVSOdW3iZ0LYOzks5NsBzI-QiiUgQtT8sNojhHQb-BVWORLTh90YIg2WNsi8cbVg-VDkTUg8zGxnfDU9jQiY78JOCzkM5OlE0py2M1HZV3MGggV_1_XdZDDOey9hyphenhyphenYE-/s1600/BBQ+casserole.jpg" /></a></div>
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DC has been a hot mess of a pressure cooker over the last several months. In addition to the general grumpiness of summer ending, it rained for what felt like eternity, and the simmering rage of most women surrounding the Supreme Court nomination insanity came to a full boil. I have been relentlessly pissed off and sad.<br />
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All of that is a lead in to a recipe post to say that our eating has been all over the place. I know that eating super clean, getting 8 hours of sleep a night, and sticking to a strict work out schedule would make me so much more capable to cope with the pile of s*it raining down right now. Instead I've been snacking on sourdough bread, drinking lots of wine, topping it off with a sweet treat, and then repeatedly cursing myself for it all as I exercise the following day (at least I've been consistently exercising -- I need to channel that rage somewhere!).<br />
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In an effort to try and make at least dinner easier, I've been making more casseroles and one-pan meals than usual -- not always Paleo, but still healthy. Most of our evenings have been jam-packed with homework and extracurricular activities, so dinners like this BBQ Chicken Casserole have been my go-to to keep everyone fed and happy. It's sort of like a BBQ chicken pizza in a dish and it is super kid-friendly while also still healthy.<br />
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I'm hoping to do a Whole30'ish stint between Halloween and Thanksgiving. Until then, I'm just trying to keep it together, people.<br />
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<b><u>Paleo BBQ Chicken Casserole </u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(slightly adapted from <a href="https://www.jaysbakingmecrazy.com/2016/10/02/paleo-barbecue-chicken-casserole/">Jay's Baking Me Crazy</a>) </div>
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<b><u>Ingredients</u></b>:<br />
- 1 large spaghetti squash, cooked + shredded<br />
- 1 lb bacon, divided (sugar free)<br />
- 1 red onion, diced<br />
- 2 lbs chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces<br />
- 1 1/2 - 2 cups Paleo BBQ sauce<br />
- 1/4 tsp pepper<br />
- salt to taste<br />
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder<br />
- 3 large eggs<br />
- cilantro and avocado for garnish<br />
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<b><u>Directions</u></b>:<br />
1. Preheat oven to 400<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "source sans pro" , "helvetica neue" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">°</span> and spray a 13 X 9 baking dish with olive oil.<br />
2. Placed cooked spaghetti squash in a large bowl and pat dry with paper towel.<br />
3. Cut bacon into thin strips and place in a large skillet.<br />
4. Cook on medium/high until crispy. Remove half of bacon onto a plate and add onion and chicken to remaining bacon. Cook until onion is tender and chicken is cooked through.<br />
5. Add chicken mixture to the spaghetti squash and then add the barbecue sauce -- start with 1 1/2 cups and add more if needed. Add the pepper, salt to taste, and garlic powder. Stir until everything is mixed well.<br />
6. Add the eggs and stir completely.<br />
7. Place mixture into prepared pan, top with remaining bacon and bake for 30-35 minutes. Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, garnish with cilantro and avocado.<br />
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* * *</div>
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<b>Day 1 (Sun)</b> -- <a href="http://www.wholesomelicious.com/beef-enchilada-bake-cilantro-avocado-cream-sauce-paleo-whole30/">Beef Enchilada Bake with Cilantro Avocado Cream Sauce</a></div>
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<b>Day 2 (M)</b> -- brinner </div>
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<b>Day 3 (T)</b> -- <a href="https://www.thepaleochefstable.com/greek-lamb-kabobs-paleo-whole30/">Greek Lamb Kabobs</a>; green beans</div>
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<b>Day 4 (W)</b> -- <a href="https://www.thepaleochefstable.com/greek-lamb-kabobs-paleo-whole30/">Greek Lemon Chicken Kebabs</a>; salad; sweet potato fries </div>
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<b>Day 5 (Th)</b> -- grilled salmon packets with fresh dill; oven potatoes; carrot + zucchini "noodles"</div>
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<b>Day 6 (F)</b> -- <a href="https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/instant-pot-barbacoa-beef/">Instant Pot Barbacoa Beef</a>; cauliflower rice; salad </div>
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<b>Day 7 (Sat)</b> -- grilled strip steak; oven baked fries; sautéed green beans </div>
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<b>Day 8 (Sun)</b> -- dinner out </div>
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<b>Day 9 (M)</b> -- <a href="https://www.joyfulhealthyeats.com/grilled-mahi-mahi-fish-tacos-with-chipotle-lime-crema/">Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos with Chipotle Lime Crema</a><br />
<b>Day 10 (T)</b> -- brinner<br />
<b>Day 11 (W)</b> -- <a href="https://www.skinnytaste.com/moroccan-meatballs/">Moroccan Meatballs</a>; cauliflower gnocchi; roasted broccoli<br />
<b>Day 12 (Th)</b> -- <a href="https://www.skinnytaste.com/moroccan-meatballs/">Healing Paleo Chicken Soup</a><br />
<b>Day 13 (F)</b> -- <a href="https://thecastawaykitchen.com/2018/04/braised-pork-chops/">Braised Pork Chops over Cauliflower Cream</a>; sautéed grean beans + tomatoes<br />
<b>Day 14 (Sat)</b> -- dinner out<br />
<b>Day 15 (Sun)</b> -- <a href="https://sweetcsdesigns.com/paleo-taco-skillets-paleo-taco-bowls/">Paleo Taco Skillet</a> (I used ground turkey breast)<br />
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<b>Day 16 (M)</b> -- <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2017/11/all-american-chili-30-days-of-dinner.html">All American Chili</a>; salad<br />
<b>Day 17 (T)</b> -- leftovers<br />
<b>Day 18 (W)</b> -- brinner<br />
<b>Day 19 (Th)</b> -- <a href="https://www.howsweeteats.com/2016/08/chicken-tinga-tacos-with-grilled-corn-guac/">Chicken Tinga Tacos</a>; green beans<br />
<b>Day 20 (F)</b> -- <a href="https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/grilled-flank-steak-with-rosemary-731">Grilled Flank Steak with Rosemary</a>; salad; sweet potato fries<br />
<b>Day 21 (Sat)</b> -- brinner: <a href="https://www.backtothebooknutrition.com/skillet-brussels-sprouts-prosciutto/">Skillet Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon + Honey Balsamic Glaze</a>; egg and smoked salmon scramble; fruit salad; breakfast potatoes<br />
<b>Day 22 (Sun)</b> -- dinner out<br />
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<b>Day 23 (M)</b> -- BTS meal: Filet Mignon Oscar Style; old bay french fries; asparagus<br />
<b>Day 24 (T)</b> -- leftovers<br />
<b>Day 25 (W)</b> -- leftovers<br />
<b>Day 26 (Th)</b> -- <a href="https://www.joyfulhealthyeats.com/the-best-grilled-chicken-recipe-with-spice-rub/">Grilled Chicken with Spice Rub</a>; sweet potato fries; broccoli<br />
<b>Day 27 (F)</b> -- Trader Joe's Carnitas; carrot + zucchini "noodles"<br />
<b>Day 28 (Sat)</b> -- dinner out<br />
<b>Day 29 (Sun)</b> -- <a href="https://rasamalaysia.com/spicy-honey-salmon-in-foil/">Spicy Honey Salmon in Foil</a>; sweet potato fries; sautéed kale<br />
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<b>Day 30 (M)</b> -- <a href="https://paleocrashcourse.com/paleo-beef-and-broccoli/">Beef + Broccoli Stir Fry</a>; cauliflower rice<br />
<b>Day 31 (T)</b> -- brinner<br />
<b>Day 32 (W)</b> -- <a href="https://paleogrubs.com/cod-recipe">Simple Cod Piccata</a>; baked potato; roasted carrots<br />
<b>Day 33 (Th)</b> -- dinner out<br />
<b>Day 34 (F)</b> -- <a href="https://sweetcsdesigns.com/paleo-taco-skillets-paleo-taco-bowls/">Paleo Taco Skillet</a>; sweet potato fries<br />
<b>Day 35 (Sat)</b> -- dinner out<br />
<b>Day 36 (Sun)</b> -- dinner out<br />
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<br /></div>
<b>Day 37 (M)</b> -- <a href="https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/instant-pot-barbacoa-beef/">Instant Pot Barbacoa Beef</a>; sweet potato fries; green beans<br />
<b>Day 38 (T)</b> -- brinner<br />
<b>Day 39 (W)</b> -- leftovers<br />
<b>Day 40 (Th)</b> -- <a href="http://pinchofyum.com/healthy-baked-pesto-rigatoni">Healthy Baked Pesto Rigatoni</a>; kale caesar salad<br />
<b>Day 41 (F)</b> -- dinner out<br />
<b>Day 42 (Sat)</b> -- dinner out<br />
<b>Day 43 (Sun)</b> -- <a href="https://www.skinnytaste.com/moroccan-meatballs/">Healing Paleo Chicken Soup</a>; salad<br />
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<b>Day 44 (M)</b> -- honey dijon grilled salmon, mashed potatoes; roasted green beans<br />
<b>Day 45 (T)</b> -- Joel's requested birthday dinner:<a href="https://foolproofliving.com/oven-baked-chicken-parmesan/"> Oven Baked Chicken Parm</a>; cauliflower gnocchi; salad; <a href="https://thefirstyearblog.com/peanut-butter-cup-chocolate-pie/print/">FROZEN PEANUT BUTTER CUP PIE</a> (GAAAAHHH, so good).Not-So-SAHMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01449442571749036593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7050866223284067912.post-71551224874666817302018-08-24T05:00:00.000-04:002018-08-24T08:18:07.238-04:00The Friday Five!! Oh hey! That's two posts in one week! We've been down and out with some yucky summer virus, which has meant lots of hanging around and a little extra time to blog this week! So I decided it was time to bring back the Friday Five. Besides pushing fluids and binge watching survival reality shows, here's what else we got after this week ....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj73fmkYmTdPVH7Dcx7yywo4YNSH4MaU5habbt8NYCkyIYYjmEM95KgjZGLpYaAXYt1ND-8V3vfs6PevxRuIdDEtTWyD4DWpd-cPdyfBVn8l_Y2hqs9a8hPJ3qjvq-x-7vBE_fFT-kGW8Fa/s1600/FF-8.24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="791" data-original-width="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj73fmkYmTdPVH7Dcx7yywo4YNSH4MaU5habbt8NYCkyIYYjmEM95KgjZGLpYaAXYt1ND-8V3vfs6PevxRuIdDEtTWyD4DWpd-cPdyfBVn8l_Y2hqs9a8hPJ3qjvq-x-7vBE_fFT-kGW8Fa/s1600/FF-8.24.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b><u>Reading</u></b> -- the first book in <a href="https://amzn.to/2N8TSCW">The Penderwicks</a> series is proving to be such a great family read!<br />
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<b><u>Playing</u></b> -- <a href="https://amzn.to/2BEjCWH">Scattergories</a> has long been a favorite of the adults in our family but the kids are finally old enough to get in on the action. We split into kid/adult combo teams and spend most of our time making the case for whatever ridiculous answer we've come up with -- the kids caught on right away.<br />
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<b><u>Making</u></b> -- Cam's been into sculpting lately and<a href="https://amzn.to/2MPekvC"> this basic air dry clay</a> is a great starter clay. It dries fairly quickly and you can leave it white and simple or paint it too.<br />
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<b><u>Cooking</u></b> -- thank goodness I made an extra batch of this <a href="https://livingwellmom.com/healing-paleo-chicken-soup/">Healing Paleo Chicken Soup </a>this week! I'm most PO'd because this virus struck towards the end of my Whole30 and I had to abandon it for need of real carbs. But this soup kept everyone going!<br />
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<b><u>Wanting</u></b> -- I need some new every day gym shoes and I LOVE <a href="https://shop.lululemon.com/p/women-shoes/Womens-TechLoom-Pro-Shoe-Metallic/_/prod8860431?color=32584">this metallic knit pair from Lululemon / APL</a>. I've repeatedly shown the kids in an effort to get them on whatever "gift list" may exist.Not-So-SAHMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01449442571749036593noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7050866223284067912.post-73529411837428653772018-08-20T09:18:00.000-04:002018-08-20T09:18:41.299-04:0025 Bento Box Lunches for Kids!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I truly don't know how other parents pack lunches for their kids all school-year long. Our kids get lunch at school and I feel like I get totally stumped at the start of every summer—it's like I have no idea what to feed them for a mid-day meal! But this summer I decided to try a bento box approach and I LOVED it! The kids did too. I thought it was super easy to come up with colorful, varied, mostly healthy lunches. With school starting in just a few weeks (and having already started in some places!), I thought it would be fun to share the 25 bento boxes I packed for them.<br />
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I got lots of Instagram questions about the various tools and goodies I used so I'll link to items throughout. To start, I used the <a href="https://amzn.to/2L9VSZN">Brigenius bento boxes</a> for our lunches. I wanted a bento box that was big enough to hold enough food for my kids but because I was using them just for the summer, I didn't want to shell out a ton of cash for the <a href="https://amzn.to/2L8j0bd">stainless steel bentos</a> I originally wanted.<br />
I was pretty happy with the Brigenius for the price, but there was some leaking between compartments (none outside the box though). So if I was going to purchase new ones, I'd go for the <a href="https://amzn.to/2L41Hbi">YUMbox</a>, which I hear is actually really leakproof.<br />
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I also bought a <a href="https://amzn.to/2nO3fNc">pack of travel salad dressing containers </a>to use and I liked them, but they didn't fit very easily into the bento box. And I used <a href="https://amzn.to/2LbK35r">silicone muffin cups</a> to hold items that might leak and simply wrapped a piece of plastic wrap over the top.<br />
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All right ... on to the lunches! The kids seemed to like themed lunches and would ask for Mediterranean one day, charcuterie another, and brunch once a week. It was a little hokey, but also easy to pack like this, so I went with it. I used plenty of prepared foods from Trader Joe's (TJ's) and Whole Foods, but added in fresh as well. In addition to what you see inside each bento box, I included a frozen organic yogurt squeeze stick in the kids' lunch boxes along with an ice pack. I knew they'd always eat it and it helped keep everything cold. And even though I wouldn't normally let them have dessert every day, I included a small sweet in each lunch to encourage them to eat everything else.<br />
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TJ's brown rice sushi / TJ's pork buns / edamame / watermelon / TJ's <a href="https://amzn.to/2N1avAk">chocolate-covered sunflower seeds</a> (naturally colored!)<br />
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prosciutto, fresh basil, and mini mozzarella balls / crackers / pineapple / caesar salad / <a href="https://amzn.to/2Lc68AK">dark cacao coconut cookies</a><br />
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TJ's orzo salad with spinach, red peppers, and olives / sliced chicken sausage / pita and hummus / carrots / raspberry shortbread cookie<br />
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whole wheat pancakes / maple chicken sausage / hardboiled eggs / frozen blueberries and strawberries / <a href="https://amzn.to/2nQDhsz">TJ's chocolate covered candies (naturally colored!)</a><br />
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salami and cheddar / crackers / strawberries / caesar salad / <a href="https://amzn.to/2LbfHzV">TJ's chocolate covered dried fruits (naturally colored!) </a><br />
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gnocchi with tomato and mozzarella sauce / turkey meatballs / homemade garlic bread / celery / watermelon / <a href="https://amzn.to/2OPNWPK">organic gummy bears</a><br />
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chicken quesadillas with a to-go guac packet / cuban black beans / pineapple / tortilla chips / TJ's <a href="https://amzn.to/2N1avAk">chocolate-covered sunflower seeds</a> (naturally colored!) <br />
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pepperoni pan pizza / caesar salad / carrots / strawberries / <a href="https://amzn.to/2Lc68AK">dark cacao coconut cookies</a><br />
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quiche lorraine / chicken sausage / sugar snap peas / strawberries / yogurt / <a href="https://amzn.to/2nQDhsz">TJ's chocolate covered candies (naturally colored!)</a><br />
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spaghetti with arrabbiata sauce / turkey meatballs / yellow peppers / snap peas / watermelon / <a href="https://amzn.to/2OPNWPK">organic gummy bears</a><br />
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taco-stuffed baked potato / corn and black bean salad / pineapple / carrots / <a href="https://amzn.to/2MnMGGW">figgy pops choco crunch super snacks</a><br />
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deconstructed chef salad / strawberries / pretzels and pimento cheese dip /<a href="https://amzn.to/2MIKCss"> organic chocolate covered coconut bar</a><br />
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chicken and waffles / strawberries / hardboiled eggs / carrots / celery with cream cheese / fig cookies<br />
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turkey sandwiches on a stick / pretzels and pimento cheese dip / grapes / carrots / <a href="https://amzn.to/2MIKCss">organic chocolate covered coconut bar</a><br />
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everything bagel with goat cheese cream cheese / ham / hardboiled eggs / pineapple and pomegranate arils / <a href="https://amzn.to/2vZ9wdI">chocolate bunny crackers</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHtFIFYnKu5E_6QT2jK4Apnkw48OYGuJ2EQnzacKVg6smDgePhgXm_j0xT0LkUWsJ-cJYxEnVDJHAdU1jcK6l1gl2KWxPEzREs7Xg4qWUy61z1-w7DFbUoJoYkT3Ardh6UC7Pe_FupxGKJ/s1600/BB-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="201" data-original-width="1025" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHtFIFYnKu5E_6QT2jK4Apnkw48OYGuJ2EQnzacKVg6smDgePhgXm_j0xT0LkUWsJ-cJYxEnVDJHAdU1jcK6l1gl2KWxPEzREs7Xg4qWUy61z1-w7DFbUoJoYkT3Ardh6UC7Pe_FupxGKJ/s1600/BB-4.jpg" /></a></div>
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ramen with grilled chicken / <a href="https://amzn.to/2L5FvO0">rice cracker mix</a> / watermelon / edamame / <a href="https://amzn.to/2Lc68AK">dark cacao coconut cookies</a><br />
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deconstructed mini meatball subs with roll on the side / caesar salad / red peppers and mini mozzarella pearls / <a href="https://amzn.to/2OPNWPK">organic gummy bears</a><br />
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couscous with feta / chicken spinach sausage / carrots / lemon hummus / pita / watermelon / <a href="https://amzn.to/2Lc68AK">dark cacao coconut cookies</a><br />
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california rolls / edamame / cantaloupe / <a href="https://amzn.to/2L5FvO0">rice cracker mix</a> / 2-bite brownie<br />
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roast beef sandwich with cheddar and avocado on sourdough / tortilla chips and black bean dip / carrots / watermelon / saltwater taffy<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPlqCDYTVHQdxeeRXxuLUH_QMOq0n0RglZVC7gXHR9aSnCaFRzZvvun3CkZ3KWMsjI4ElVc7bCi5rEP1mCafZEIUtT9B5mDFBt-NMUbX0Fai9W4z5OoeBqKE6mehCEGrGGWEjxMKXHj-6A/s1600/BB-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="201" data-original-width="1025" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPlqCDYTVHQdxeeRXxuLUH_QMOq0n0RglZVC7gXHR9aSnCaFRzZvvun3CkZ3KWMsjI4ElVc7bCi5rEP1mCafZEIUtT9B5mDFBt-NMUbX0Fai9W4z5OoeBqKE6mehCEGrGGWEjxMKXHj-6A/s1600/BB-5.jpg" /></a></div>
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linguine with pesto and tomatoes / turkey meatballs / sliced cucumber / strawberries / sourdough cheese twists / <a href="https://amzn.to/2nTiKnq">organic dark chocolate coconut pieces</a><br />
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banana bread muffins with cream cheese / ham / strawberries / hardboiled eggs / salad / mini chocolate chip cookie creme sandwich<br />
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barbacoa quesadillas / rice and black beans / shredded carrots and red pepper / chips and salsa / <a href="https://amzn.to/2nQDhsz">TJ's chocolate covered candies (naturally colored!)</a><br />
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turkey cobb salad wraps / cucumbers and yellow peppers / pita chips and hummus / strawberries / <a href="https://amzn.to/2MnMGGW">figgy pops choco crunch super snacks</a><br />
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veggie spring rolls with sunflower butter dipping sauce / chicken / watermelon / <a href="https://amzn.to/2L5FvO0">rice cracker mix</a> / 2-bite brownie </div>
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Hope that helps spur some new ideas ... HAPPY BENTO BOX MAKING!! </div>
Not-So-SAHMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01449442571749036593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7050866223284067912.post-43358195775560404312018-08-13T05:00:00.000-04:002018-08-13T05:00:10.911-04:00Slow Cooker Barbacoa + 30 Days of Dinner!! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVhBI05FevmF65M2ztF5OFY42dVRQUVFcY7vv5ubUYLIzoUf_GeiSF4V1JjOSrpvoFZMoW4DQK51i84wCaxJ261rwI6Fs_aPKFUGMBzshKW9ao3-UgPajGs5GAK3UNCA6TRXJ6rOeuZjDo/s1600/Barbacoa_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVhBI05FevmF65M2ztF5OFY42dVRQUVFcY7vv5ubUYLIzoUf_GeiSF4V1JjOSrpvoFZMoW4DQK51i84wCaxJ261rwI6Fs_aPKFUGMBzshKW9ao3-UgPajGs5GAK3UNCA6TRXJ6rOeuZjDo/s1600/Barbacoa_.jpg" /></a></div>
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I've made a lot of different versions of slow cooker taco proteins, but lately I've been making this Barbacoa almost once a week. It's SO flavorful and the entire family loves it. And you can make it far ahead of time in an old school crock pot and it comes out delicious. It's perfect for anyone doing a Whole30 and we're smack in the middle of another round, so ....<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Slow Cooker Barbacoa </u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(slightly adapted from <a href="https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/instant-pot-barbacoa-beef/">Gimme Some Oven's Instant Pot recipe</a>)</div>
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<b>Ingredients</b><br />
- 2/3 cup beer, water, or beef broth (for Whole30, make sure you're using water or compliant broth)<br />
- 4 cloves garlic<br />
- 2-4 chipotles in adobo sauce (depending on level of spice desired)<br />
- 1 small white onion, peeled and roughly chopped<br />
- 1, 4-ounce can chopped green chiles<br />
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice<br />
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar<br />
- 1 tbsp ground cumin<br />
- 1 tbsp oregano<br />
- 2 tsp salt<br />
- 1 tsp black pepper<br />
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves<br />
- 1 tbsp olive oil<br />
- 3 lb beef chuck roast, fat trimmed and cut into 2-inch chunks<br />
- 3 bay leaves<br />
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<b>Directions </b><br />
1. Combine ingredients from broth through cloves into a food processor or blender. Puree until smooth.<br />
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2. Heat oil in a cast iron pan and sear pieces of chuck roast in batches, until beef is seared on all sides.<br />
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3. Add beef, pureed sauce, and bay leaves to slow cooker. Cook on slow for 8 hours. You can make this work on high for 4-6 hours, but it won't be as tender. When finished cooking, shred with two forks.<br />
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I like to serve this over cauliflower rice or <a href="https://amzn.to/2MDQr6Z">Siete grain-free tortillas</a> and with Whole30-compliant toppings. My kiddos like them in flour tortillas.<br />
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<b>Day 1 (W)</b> -- <a href="https://rasamalaysia.com/spicy-honey-salmon-in-foil/">Spicy Honey Salmon in Foil</a>, oven-baked french fries, salad<br />
<b>Day 2 (Th)</b> -- Burgers, green beans, sweet potato fries<br />
<b>Day 3 (F)</b> -- dinner out<br />
<b>Day 4 (Sat)</b> -- dinner out<br />
<b>Day 5 (Sun)</b> -- dinner out<br />
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<b>Day 6 (M)</b> -- <a href="https://www.seriouseats.com/recipes/2012/03/seared-scallops-with-salsa-verde.html">Seared Scallops with Caper Salsa Verde</a>, salad<br />
<b>Day 7 (T)</b> -- <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2017/04/grilled-chicken-tacos-30-days-of-dinner.html">Grilled Chicken Tacos</a>, sweet potato fries <br />
<b>Day 8 (W)</b> -- <a href="https://whole30.com/2018/03/whole30-cookbook-5/">Whole30 Grilled Lamb Loin Chops + Fingerling Potatoes with Arugula Pesto</a>, sautéed greens beans and tomatoes<br />
<b>Day 9 (Th) </b>-- <a href="https://www.the-girl-who-ate-everything.com/grilled-shrimp-tacos-avocado-salsa/">Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Salsa</a>, cauliflower rice<br />
<b>Day 10 (F)</b> -- <a href="https://www.skinnytaste.com/grilled-flank-steak-with-chimichurri/#comments">Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri</a>, fries, salad<br />
<b>Day 1 (Sat)</b> -- dinner out<br />
<b>Day 11 (Sun)</b> -- dinner out<br />
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<b>Day 12 (M)</b> -- <a href="https://www.skinnytaste.com/moroccan-meatballs/">Moroccan Meatballs</a>, green beans<br />
<b>Day 13 (T)</b> -- <a href="http://Grilled Honey Lime Cilantro Chicken,">Grilled Honey Lime Cilantro Chicken</a>, salad, smashed garlic and herb potatoes<br />
<b>Day 14 (W)</b> -- <a href="http://www.thedefineddish.com/sheet-pan-sausage-with-veggies/">Sheet Pan Sausage with Veggies</a><br />
<b>Day 15 (Th) </b>-- Honey Dijon Grilled Salmon, sweet potatoes fries, roasted cauliflower + broccoli<br />
<b>Day 16 (F)</b> -- dinner out<br />
<b>Day 17 (Sat)</b> -- dinner out<br />
<b>Day 18 (Sun)</b> -- <a href="https://www.theseasonedmom.com/tuscan-chicken-marinade/">Grilled Tuscan Chicken</a>, sautéed green beans, TJ's cauliflower gnocchi<br />
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<b>Day 19 (M)</b> -- Brinner: crab + egg scrambles, sausage, oven fries, salad<br />
<b>Day 20 (T)</b> -- dinner out<br />
<b>Day 21 (W)</b> -- <a href="https://www.paleorunningmomma.com/chicken-pesto-stuffed-sweet-potatoes-paleo-whole30/">Chicken Pesto Stuffed Sweet Potatoes</a>, green beans<br />
<b>Day 22 (Th) </b>-- leftovers<br />
<b>Day 23 (F)</b> -- Slow Cooker Barbacoa, cauliflower rice<br />
<b>Day 24 (Sat)</b> -- Balsamic-Marinated Grilled Chicken (<a href="https://www.primalpalate.com/paleo-recipe/strawberry-basil-grilled-chicken/">basically followed this but left strawberries out</a>), salad<br />
<b>Day 25 (Sun)</b> -- Seared scallops, roasted cauliflower + broccoli<br />
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<b>Day 26 (M)</b> -- <a href="https://www.howsweeteats.com/2018/05/flank-steak/">Cilantro Lime Flank Steak</a>, green beans with red onions and golden beets<br />
<b>Day 27 (T)</b> -- Slow Cooker Barbacoa, cauliflower rice, salad<br />
<b>Day 28 (W)</b> -- <a href="https://www.acouplecooks.com/baked-salmon-with-chimichurri-sauce/">Grilled Salmon with Chimichurri Sauce</a>, roasted vegetables<br />
<b>Day 29 (Th) </b>-- Brinner: sweet potato fries, poached eggs, sausage, salad<br />
<b>Day 30 (F)</b> -- <a href="https://www.paleorunningmomma.com/pork-chops-apples-paleo-whole30/">One-Skillet Porch Chops with Apples</a>, baked potatoes, roasted brussels sprouts<br />
<br />Not-So-SAHMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01449442571749036593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7050866223284067912.post-32499841120051736132018-07-11T11:11:00.000-04:002018-07-11T11:11:55.999-04:00Moroccan Meatballs + 30 Days of Dinner!! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip9xh2VwP7fq0yQc3GDFF7w8G08f6Mkyi4jo1Rt7z6A8Wsb_ytrThBWcdpx-589p_Vw4-2ZlEwCV2NARfwvs-EdJlNJJ946_acvFjwm-yfvkShK5Rv4ha6Nrcp7lM69dxpsTUen_8cumBa/s1600/Meatballs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip9xh2VwP7fq0yQc3GDFF7w8G08f6Mkyi4jo1Rt7z6A8Wsb_ytrThBWcdpx-589p_Vw4-2ZlEwCV2NARfwvs-EdJlNJJ946_acvFjwm-yfvkShK5Rv4ha6Nrcp7lM69dxpsTUen_8cumBa/s1600/Meatballs.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
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Honestly, I miss the summers before the kids were entrenched in all day camps. I know I dreamed of those longingly when they toddled about the house as I came up with all manner of field trips and art projects. But now I hardly get to see them! We fit things in where we can, but all I've got to really share this month is more of what we've been eating. Because they are definitely EATING. </div>
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We all love these meatballs and I always double the recipe when I make them. In case you've missed my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/notsosahm/">Instagram posts of our new bento boxes</a> (which have garnered more comments than any other posts so I'm seriously considering starting a packed bento box business), I'm making lunches this summer and the ol' turkey sandwich every day trick doesn't work now that they are older. So I make sure to use leftovers when I can. These take a bit of time to mix up, but then basically cook themselves while you can do other things. Try them! </div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
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<b><u>Moroccan Meatballs</u></b></div>
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(slightly adapted from <a href="https://www.skinnytaste.com/moroccan-meatballs/"><span style="color: black;">S</span>kinnytaste</a>)</div>
<br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><b style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><u>Ingredients</u></b><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Sauce </b></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">- 1 onion, chopped</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">- 2 (14-ounce) cans no salt added diced tomatoes </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">- 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">- 1 1/2 tsp cumin </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">- 1 tsp kosher salt </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">- 1/2 cup green olives, chopped </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Meatballs</b> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">- 1 lb lean ground beef </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">- 1/2 cup finely diced onion </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">- 2 tsp paprika</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">- 1 1/2 tsp cumin</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">- 1/2 tsp cinnamon </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">- 1 tsp kosher salt </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, divided </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">- feta cheese (optional)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span>
<b style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><u>Directions</u></b><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">1. In a large dutch onion, sauté chopped onions for sauce with a little olive oil until just starting to brown. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">2. Add remaining sauce ingredients and stir to combine. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">3. In a large bowl, combine all meatball ingredients—leaving 2 tbsp of cilantro for garnish.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">4. Gently form mixture into 20 meatballs (don't overhandle them or they'll be tough!).</span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">5. Place the meatballs on top of the sauce. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low for 35-40 minutes. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">6. Top with feta cheese and reserved cilantro to serve. </span></span><br />
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<br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Day 1 (M)</b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: times new roman, times, freeserif, serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> - Grilled Chicken (<a href="https://www.oliveyouwhole.com/recipes/whole30-bbq-sauce-recipe/">Whole30 BBQ sauce</a>); sweet potato fries; green beans </span></span></span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 2 (T)</b> - Scallops seared in ghee + olive oil with a spicy mayo sauce (Whole30 compliant hot sauce, paleo mayo, little water); cauliflower rice </span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Day 3 - (W)</b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: times new roman, times, freeserif, serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> - <a href="https://www.skinnytaste.com/slow-cooker-paleo-jalapeno-popper/">Paleo Jalapeño Popper Chicken Chili </a></span></span></span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 4 (Th)</b> - dinner out </span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 5 (F)</b><span style="font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif;"> - grilled burgers and salad in NJ</span></span><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 6 (Sat)</b><span style="font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif;"> - grilled steak and salad in NJ </span></span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 7 (Sun)</b> - <a href="https://unsophisticook.com/balsamic-grilled-chicken/">Juicy Balsamic Grilled Chicken</a> and salad in NJ </span><br />
<span style="font-family: times new roman, times, freeserif, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 8 (M)</b> - brinner (eggs, potatoes, salad)</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Day 9 (T)</b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: times new roman, times, freeserif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> - <a href="https://www.skinnytaste.com/easy-shredded-harrisa-chicken/">Easy Shredded Harissa Chicken</a> over cauliflower rice </span></span></span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 10 (W)</b> - dinner out </span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 11 (Th)</b> - <a href="https://realsimplegood.com/paleo-cauliflower-rice-bowls-with-shrimp/">Paleo Cauliflower Rice Bowls with Shrimp</a> </span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Day 12 (F)</b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: times new roman, times, freeserif, serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> - </span></span><a href="https://www.lecremedelacrumb.com/flank-steak-with-chimichurri-sauce/" style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce</a><span style="color: #222222; font-family: times new roman, times, freeserif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">; </span><a href="https://themovementmenu.com/recipes/loaded-potato-skins/" style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Loaded Potato Skins with Bacon</a><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">; green beans</span></span></span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 13 (Sat)</b> - leftovers </span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 14 (Sun)</b> - dinner out </span><br />
<span style="font-family: times new roman, times, freeserif, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Day 15 (M)</b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: times new roman, times, freeserif, serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> - </span></span><a href="https://www.skinnytaste.com/these-lovely-grilled-salmon-and-lemon/" style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Grilled Salmon Kebabs</a><span style="color: #222222; font-family: times new roman, times, freeserif, serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> (but left filet whole and skin on); leftover potatoes; salad</span></span></span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 16 (T)</b> - <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2018/06/easy-steak-fajitas-60-days-of-dinner.html">Whole30 Easy Steak Fajitas</a> </span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 17 (W)</b><span style="font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif;"> - dinner out </span></span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Day 18 (Th)</b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: times new roman, times, freeserif, serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> - Moroccan Meatballs over cauliflower rice </span></span></span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 19 (F)</b> - brinner </span><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 20 (Sat)</b><span style="font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif;"> - dinner out </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 21 (Sun)</b> - chicken fajitas (made up as I made them)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> </span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 22 (M)</b> - brinner </span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 23 (T)</b> - dinner out </span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 24 (W)</b> - dinner out </span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Day 25 (Th)</b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: times new roman, times, freeserif, serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> - my birthday dinner! Delmonico steaks with chimchurri; baked potatoes; watermelon, mint + feta salad.</span></span></span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Day 26 (F)</b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: times new roman, times, freeserif, serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> - <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2016/09/slow-cooked-carnitas-with-peach-and.html">Slow Cooked Pork Carnitas</a> (sans peach salsa); cauliflower rice; salad </span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 27 (Sat)</b> - dinner out </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 28 (Sun)</b> - brinner </span><br />
<span style="font-family: times new roman, times, freeserif, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 29 (M)</b> - leftovers </span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman", times, freeserif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 30 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.howsweeteats.com/2016/04/greek-marinated-flank-steak-and-my-favorite-party-hummus-plate/">Greek Marinated Flank Steak + Hummus Plate</a></span>Not-So-SAHMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01449442571749036593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7050866223284067912.post-82042350817991884572018-06-06T05:00:00.000-04:002018-07-06T10:14:26.364-04:00Easy Steak Fajitas + 60 Days of Dinner!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLkIBPBTNPD4G6G5EntXxDhWP1FiIqeoIzgWJEEYS6tK_8ywZSN-XGE4hTJYh7xQWIZbGj6V0khREE1j0zHJQh6a-tbzMAuxFTHf7S_QHIKHLGh76m9rL2C1k8jkVW3E1XBUnY3Ahh_w8G/s1600/fajitas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLkIBPBTNPD4G6G5EntXxDhWP1FiIqeoIzgWJEEYS6tK_8ywZSN-XGE4hTJYh7xQWIZbGj6V0khREE1j0zHJQh6a-tbzMAuxFTHf7S_QHIKHLGh76m9rL2C1k8jkVW3E1XBUnY3Ahh_w8G/s1600/fajitas.jpg" /></a></div>
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I could bore you with all the mundane details of why I haven't had any time to post here in almost three months, but how about I just skip all that and share some of what we've been eating during that time. Plus, meal prepping, cooking, and eating is a lot of what we've done the last three months anyway, so ....<br />
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I am smack in the middle of a new round of Whole30, but a lot of what we ate for this 60 Days of Dinner was at least Paleo-compliant. I feel way better when I just eat clean, so I'm really trying to stick with it.<br />
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This is definitely the longest stretch of eating clean I've accomplished and the best I've done at getting back to it when I stray for an event or two. There are plenty of nights in here where we dined out too, but I've generally been doing a good job of keeping it clean when we eat out. And easy one pan meals like the fajitas I'm sharing below have really helped me cook dinner at home even on busy nights. They are so quick to whip up and packed with a lot of flavor (even the veggies!).<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Whole30 Easy Steak Fajitas</u></b><br />
(slightly adapted from <a href="https://themovementmenu.com/recipes/whole30-easy-steak-fajitas/">The Movement Menu</a>)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<u><b>Ingredients</b></u><br />
<b>Marinade + Steak</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
- 1 1/2 lbs flank steak<br />
- 3/4 tsp garlic powder<br />
- 3/4 tsp onion powder<br />
- 1 1/2 tsp cumin<br />
- zest of 1 lime<br />
- juice of 2 limes<br />
- 1/4 cup avocado oil<br />
- 1/3 cup coconut aminos<br />
- 1 1/2 tsp salt<br />
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes<br />
- salt and pepper, to taste<br />
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<b>Veggies</b><br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">
- 1/4 cup beef broth<br />
- 4 bell peppers, thinly sliced<br />
- 1 yellow onion, sliced<br />
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced<br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>Directions</u> </b></div>
1. In a small bowl, combine all of the marinade ingredients together. Add flank steak to a gallon ziplock bag and then add marinade. Press out any excess air and close the bag. Give the steak a little massage to incorporate the marinade. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.<br />
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2. Heat a large cast iron skillet on medium-hight heat. Spray skillet lightly with olive oil. Remove steak from bag and discard marinade. Season steak with salt and pepper.<br />
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3. Gently place the steak into the pan and let cook for 4 1/2 minutes. Flip over and cook for another 4 1/2 minutes. Remove the steak from a pan and let rest for 10 minutes with foil tented over it.<br />
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4. While the steak is resting, cook the vegetables. First, add the broth to the pan. Scrape up brown bits and remove from pan. Spray pan with a little more olive oil. Add vegetables and cook for 8-10 minutes until soft and cooked through.<br />
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5. Slice steak against the grain and layer on top of the vegetables. Top with sliced avocado, green onions, and fresh cilantro.<br />
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* * *</div>
<br />
Day 1 (M) - grilled burgers, sweet potato fries, salad<br />
Day 2 (T) - brinner<br />
Day 3 (W) - <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2017/04/grilled-chicken-tacos-30-days-of-dinner.html">Grilled Chicken Tacos</a><br />
Day 4 (Th) - <a href="https://livingwellmom.com/healing-paleo-chicken-soup/">Healing Paleo Chicken Soup</a> -- everyone loved this. I added some noodles to the kids' portions when I served it.<br />
Day 5 (F) - dinner out<br />
Day 6 (Sat) - dinner out<br />
Day 7 (Sun) - leftovers<br />
<br />
Day 8 (M) - <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2018/03/mediterranean-chicken-and-cauliflower.html">Mediterranean Chicken and Cauliflower Rice</a><br />
Day 9 (T) - <a href="https://www.splendidtable.org/recipes/pan-seared-scallops">Pan Seared Scallops</a>, skillet potatoes, roasted brussels sprouts<br />
Day 10 (W) - brinner<br />
Day 11 (Th) - <a href="http://girlandthekitchen.com/instant-pot-shredded-chicken/">Instant Pot Shredded Chicken</a> (I just used my slow cooker and cooked on slow for 8 hours)<br />
Day 12 (F) - <a href="https://www.halfbakedharvest.com/steak-fajitas-chimichurri-cucumber-salsa/">Steak Fajitas with Chimichurri and Cucumber Salsa</a><br />
Day 13 (Sat) - dinner out<br />
Day 14 (Sun) - <a href="https://www.campbells.com/kitchen/recipes/oven-braised-corned-beef-cabbage/">Oven Braised Corn Beef and Cabbage</a>, roasted potatoes and carrots, <a href="https://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/sauteed-cabbage-and-bacon">Sautéed Cabbage and Bacon</a><br />
<br />
Day 15 (M) - Tavuk Sis (this was from a cooking class we took, but <a href="https://www.thespruceeats.com/basic-turkish-chicken-kebab-3274263">this recipe is similar</a>), <a href="https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/12609-turkish-shepherds-salad">Turkish Shepherd's Salad</a>, cauliflower rice<br />
Day 16 (T) - Shrimp + Roasted Carrot Tostadas (Plated), green beans<br />
Day 17 (W) - brinner<br />
Day 18 (Th) - I<a href="https://nomnompaleo.com/2017/04/18/2017041820170418instant-pot-pressure-cooker-carnitas">nstant Pot Carnitas </a>(I made these in my regular slow cooker on slow for 8 hours), cauliflower rice<br />
Day 19 (F) - leftovers<br />
Day 20 (Sat) - dinner out<br />
Day 21 (Sun) - <a href="https://www.halfbakedharvest.com/sheet-pan-cuban-chicken-with-citrus-avocado-salsa/">Sheet Pan Cuban Chicken with Citrus Avocado Salsa</a><br />
<br />
Day 22 (M) - <a href="https://physicalkitchness.com/easy-paleo-greek-chicken-skillet/">Easy Paleo Green Chicken Skillet</a>, <a href="https://eatthegains.com/apple-shaved-brussels-sprouts-salad/">Apple + Shaved Brussels Sprouts with Creamy Balsamic </a><br />
Day 23 (T) - Smoked Salmon Pizza with Whipped Goat Cheese, Capers, and Tomato (Plated recipe but I used gluten free dough), fruit salad<br />
Day 24 (W) - brinner<br />
Day 25 (Th) - dinner out<br />
Day 26 (F) - <a href="https://www.halfbakedharvest.com/steak-fajitas-chimichurri-cucumber-salsa/">Steak Fajitas with Chimichurri and Cucumber Salsa</a><br />
Day 27 (Sat) - dinner out<br />
Day 28 (Sun) - dinner out<br />
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Day 29 (M) - <a href="http://40aprons.com/whole30-in-n-out-burgers/">Whole30 In N Out Burgers: Double Double Animal Style</a> (OMG! This were bananas good!), sweet potato fries<br />
Day 30 (T) - <a href="https://meaningfuleats.com/sweet-and-spicy-pineapple-salmon/">Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Salmon</a>, sweet potato fries<br />
Day 31 (W) - brinner<br />
Day 32 (Th) - dinner out<br />
Day 33 (F) - <a href="http://www.wholesomelicious.com/shrimp-scampi-zucchini-noodles-paleo-whole30/">Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles</a><br />
Day 34 (Sat) - <a href="https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/garlic-lovers-salmon/">Garlic Lovers Salmon in Foil</a><br />
Day 35 (Sun) - dinner out<br />
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Day 36 (M) - dinner out<br />
Day 37 (T) - <a href="http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/all-american-chili">All-American Chili</a> (left out beans)<br />
Day 38 (W) - brinner<br />
Day 39 (Th) - <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2016/09/slow-cooked-carnitas-with-peach-and.html">Slow Cooked Carnitas with Peach and Tomato Salsa</a><br />
Day 40 (F) - leftovers<br />
Day 41 (Sat) - <a href="https://www.joyfulhealthyeats.com/grilled-mahi-mahi-fish-tacos-with-chipotle-lime-crema/">Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos with Chipotle Lime Crema</a><br />
Day 42 (Sun) - <a href="http://40aprons.com/chimichurri-whole30-meatballs/">Chimichurri Whole30 Meatballs with Swiss Chard</a><br />
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Day 43 (M) - leftovers<br />
Day 44 (T) - brinner<br />
Day 45 (W) - <a href="https://food52.com/recipes/26897-citrus-broiled-salmon">Citrus Broiled Salmon</a><br />
Day 46 (Th) - <a href="http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/all-american-chili">All-American Chili</a> (left out beans)<br />
Day 47 (F) - <a href="https://pinchofyum.com/the-best-chicken-tinga-tacos">The Best Chicken Tinga Tacos</a>, corn<br />
Day 48 (Sat) - dinner out<br />
Day 49 (Sun) - <a href="https://www.feastingathome.com/grilled-chilean-beef-skewers-w-smokey-chimichurri/">Grilled Chilean Beef Skewers with Smoky Chimichurri</a>, sweet potato fries, salad<br />
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Day 50 (M) - leftovers<br />
Day 51 (T) - <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2018/03/mediterranean-chicken-and-cauliflower.html">Mediterranean Chicken and Cauliflower Rice</a><br />
Day 52 (W) - <a href="https://www.howsweeteats.com/2016/04/greek-marinated-flank-steak-and-my-favorite-party-hummus-plate/">Greek Marinated Flank Steak and Hummus Plate</a><br />
Day 53 (Th) - dinner out<br />
Day 54 (F) - <a href="https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/slow-cooker-crispy-chicken-carnitas/">Slow Cooker Crispy Chicken Carnitas</a><br />
Day 55 (Sat) - dinner out<br />
Day 56 (Sun) - dinner out<br />
<br />
Day 57 (M) - <a href="https://www.skinnytaste.com/these-lovely-grilled-salmon-and-lemon/">Grilled Salmon</a> (I cook this as a whole fillet with the skin on the grill -- let it cook 8-10 minutes with skin side down and don't flip!)<br />
Day 58 (T) - dinner out<br />
Day 59 (W) - Sheet Pan BBQ Pork Chops and Potatoes (<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Whole30-Fast-Easy-Cookbook-Delicious/dp/1328839206">Whole30 Fast & Easy Cookbook</a>), salad<br />
Day 60 (Th) - leftovers<br />
<span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span>Not-So-SAHMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01449442571749036593noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7050866223284067912.post-83588594363323285422018-03-13T05:00:00.000-04:002018-06-06T13:09:26.006-04:00Mediterranean Chicken and Cauliflower Rice + 30 Days of Dinner!! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ4WW6KKH8BCA9y_EPKLJIyCQ_vDsgW0eIaT3kjUvJLtLmUiXGCAXT7OF7fujFS714gkMZI_eCVai-bgHymi2htO3tPWUYzvydvblOVwTvwOZlNnAPqwlXlQ56pvoR1HZf45MdJ5YdjfND/s1600/Mediterranean+Chicken+%252B+Cauliflower+Rice_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ4WW6KKH8BCA9y_EPKLJIyCQ_vDsgW0eIaT3kjUvJLtLmUiXGCAXT7OF7fujFS714gkMZI_eCVai-bgHymi2htO3tPWUYzvydvblOVwTvwOZlNnAPqwlXlQ56pvoR1HZf45MdJ5YdjfND/s1600/Mediterranean+Chicken+%252B+Cauliflower+Rice_.jpg" /></a></div>
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Daylight Savings Time kills me in so many ways but I am always thrilled with more natural light at dinner time! It makes me so much happier to cook while it's still light out—and it doesn't hurt for photos of food either. </div>
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In other news, I finished up my Whole60! Well, actually it turned out to be a Whole55. I started adding in some alcohol and dairy on day 56 because I was headed to a bachelorette party and was trying not to die. But I've stayed eating Paleo and pretty clean. I have the occasional drink, but keeping the food clean makes me feel so much better! </div>
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This month's top recipe is an insanely quick meal to make and is SO delicious. It's a new family fave and is in regular rotation at our house!<br />
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<b><u>Mediterranean Chicken + Cauliflower Rice</u></b> </div>
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(slightly adapted from <a href="https://paleoglutenfree.com/recipes/whole30-spanish-chicken-and-cauliflower-rice/">Paleo Gluten Free Eats</a>)</div>
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<b><u>Ingredients</u></b><br />
- 1 tsp garlic powder<br />
- 2 tsp paprika<br />
- 2 tsp ground cumin<br />
- 1 tsp sea salt<br />
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning<br />
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes<br />
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts<br />
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil<br />
- 24 ounces cauliflower rice<br />
- 1 1/2 cup chicken stock<br />
- lemon juice from 1/2 lemon<br />
- lemon cut into wedges<br />
- fresh cilantro for garnish<br />
- handful of cherry tomatoes<br />
- handful of kalamata olives<br />
- 1 tbsp of goat cheese (omit if Whole30 or dairy free)<br />
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<b><u>Directions</u></b><br />
1. In a small bowl, mix together the spices for the chicken. Rub half the spice mix on the chicken (reserve 1/2 for later).<br />
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and then drizzle with olive oil. Cook chicken until golden brown on each side (about 3 minutes per side—you'll finish cooking it later). Then remove chicken and set aside.<br />
3. Fill skillet with cauliflower rice, stock, lemon juice, and the other half of the spice mix. Stir the cauliflower rice. Mix in tomatoes and kalamata olives. Set chicken breasts on top of the rice. Cover with a lid and cook on medium/low hear for 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through.<br />
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro, goat cheese if using, and lemon wedges.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 1 (W)</b> - <a href="http://simply-delicious-food.com/beef-ragu-parmesan-gnocchi/">Beef Ragu</a> over sweet potatoes; salad </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 2 (Th)</b> - dinner out </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 3 - (F)</b> - <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/shrimp-tacos-with-pineapple">Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple</a> (sans tortillas) </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 4 (Sat)</b> - <a href="https://www.loveandzest.com/chicken-fajita-stuffed-sweet-potatoes/">Chicken Fajita Stuffed Sweet Potatoes</a> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><b style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Day 5 (Sun)</b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> - Super Bowl! </span></span><a href="http://www.realfoodwithdana.com/pulled-pork-loaded-sweet-potato-nachos/" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Pulled Pork Loaded Sweet Potato Nachos</a> and<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> <a href="https://whole30.com/2015/07/pot-luck/">Grilled Chicken Wings Two Ways</a></span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /></span><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Day 6 (M)</b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> - burgers; leftover sweet potatoes; salad </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 7 (T)</b> - leftover pulled pork; <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/roasted-brussels-sprouts-and-cauliflower-with-orange">Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Cauliflower with Orange</a> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 8 (W)</b> - <a href="https://paleoleap.com/mustard-balsamic-baked-chicken/">Grilled Chicken with Mustard Balsamic Marinade</a>; leftover roasted vegetables; roasted potatoes </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 9 (Th)</b> - dinner out </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 10 (F)</b> - leftovers </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 11 (Sat)</b> - grilled flank steak; baked potatoes; salad </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 12 (Sun)</b> - brinner (eggs, turkey bacon, purple sweet potato fries, salad)</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 13 (M)</b> - <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2016/11/easy-honey-dijon-skillet-chicken-30.html">Easy Honey Dijon Skillet Chicken</a>; salad </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 14 (T)</b> - <a href="https://therealfoodrds.com/slow-cooker-bbq-beef-whole30/">Slow Cooker BBQ Beef</a>; sweet potatoes; salad </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 15 (W)</b> - brinner (poached eggs, potatoes, turkey bacon, acai berry smoothie) </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 16 (Th)</b> - dinner out </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><b style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Day 17 (F)</b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> - Mediterranean Chicken and Cauliflower Rice </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 18 (Sat)</b> - brinner </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 19 (Sun)</b> - dinner out </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /></span><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Day 20 (M)</b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> - <a href="https://juliasalbum.com/flank-steak-and-chimichurri-sauce-recipe/">Pan-Seared Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce</a>; sweet potatoes; brussels sprouts </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 21 (T)</b> - brinner </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 22 (W)</b> - dinner out </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 23 (Th)</b> - <a href="https://www.paleorunningmomma.com/chicken-stir-fry-garlic-sauce-paleo-whole30/">Chicken Stiry Fry with Veggies and Garlic Sauce</a> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 24 (F)</b> - <a href="http://bravoforpaleo.com/2013/06/18/italian-sausage-stir-fry/">Italian Sausage Stir Fry</a> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 25 (Sat)</b> - dinner out </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 26 (Sun)</b> - dinner out </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 27 (M)</b> - <a href="https://themovementmenu.com/recipes/whole30-egg-roll-in-a-bowl/">Paleo Egg Roll in a Bowl</a></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 28 (T)</b> - brinner </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 29 (W)</b> - <a href="https://sweetcsdesigns.com/paleo-taco-skillets-paleo-taco-bowls/">Paleo Taco Skillet </a></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 30 (Th)</b> - dinner out</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; 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position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span>Not-So-SAHMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01449442571749036593noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7050866223284067912.post-32606461646775460162018-02-26T14:29:00.003-05:002018-02-26T14:29:55.223-05:00Spring Break Travel Arts + Crafts Activities! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4CKnSSOMPMGk_47P_NfdRtvm0UXJOlMJivTmEi9qSl45pOWPHOr92KWu_a9UsI-WZCNzrfbYsLyI5CJI604n8itt6BIQzBTZghNVCO-TgesVZl8FFAks_4UQ6oVB_9GLwnMaXMnqWHBXd/s1600/Spring+Break+8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4CKnSSOMPMGk_47P_NfdRtvm0UXJOlMJivTmEi9qSl45pOWPHOr92KWu_a9UsI-WZCNzrfbYsLyI5CJI604n8itt6BIQzBTZghNVCO-TgesVZl8FFAks_4UQ6oVB_9GLwnMaXMnqWHBXd/s1600/Spring+Break+8.jpg" /></a></div>
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The count down to Spring Break is on and we are over at the OOLY blog today sharing some of our favorite travel arts + crafts projects today! Easy ideas to help keep things creative wherever you're headed or just to freshen things up at home if you are staying put too. <a href="https://blog.ooly.com/fun-art-activities-for-kids-during-spring-break/">Check it out! </a>Not-So-SAHMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01449442571749036593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7050866223284067912.post-33701095421211076842018-02-16T09:26:00.000-05:002018-02-16T09:26:43.019-05:00The Friday Five!! So much for my goal of blogging regularly. I blinked and two weeks went by! Somehow even though the kids are now at school all day, I find myself even busier and struggling just to keep all the plates spinning. In any event, here's what we were up to this week ....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTTxsGOYMURAHdx721JREDii5VOh8b13B6C0ScFfUxizUom0q6IR7HQ0noVd5PtoEHm2aCO9b7pqPpG8CRsr5vRsZ2MXXIcb6mrNdwkv4iTtep5vHzu4x-vNS1PTx62L39_Q9PrjOa25FA/s1600/2.16-ff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="791" data-original-width="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTTxsGOYMURAHdx721JREDii5VOh8b13B6C0ScFfUxizUom0q6IR7HQ0noVd5PtoEHm2aCO9b7pqPpG8CRsr5vRsZ2MXXIcb6mrNdwkv4iTtep5vHzu4x-vNS1PTx62L39_Q9PrjOa25FA/s1600/2.16-ff.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b><u>Reading</u></b> -- I love cooking but am not always comfortable coming up with my own recipes. I've been reading <a href="http://amzn.to/2EAcCuP">Salt Fat Acid Heat</a> this week and LOVE learning about all the science behind cooking. I've always had a general idea of how these four elements work in cooking, but this book is so interesting and has been giving me the confidence to experiment more (there's nothing worse than spending a whole evening cooking and having the entire family have to eat something yucky for dinner). The kids and I are on the <a href="http://amzn.to/2Hilva2">second book in the Book Scavenger series</a> and love it! It's especially fun because it's set in <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2017/08/california-day-1-san-francisco-color.html">San Fransisco and we just visited there this past summer</a> -- I'll eventually finish those vacation posts! </div>
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<b><u>Cooking</u></b> -- this <a href="https://therealfoodrds.com/slow-cooker-bbq-beef-whole30/">Slow Cooker BBQ Beef</a> was a HUGE family fave this week -- I hardly had any leftovers for lunch! I'm about 15 days out from finishing my Whole60 -- it's been going awesome, but I have a bachelorette party coming up right at the end, so I'm still figuring out my strategy for that! </div>
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<b><u>Making</u></b> -- Kane has been super into drawing lately and loves <a href="https://picklebums.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/comic-book-templates.jpg">these printable comic book template pages from the Picklebums</a>! </div>
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<b><u>Wanting </u></b>-- I'm loving these <a href="https://www.southmoonunder.com/necklaces/">Tai Capricorn Pendants ... I need a Gemini</a>! </div>
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<b><u>Playing</u></b> -- now that Cam is more proficient at counting money, the kids have had more frequent and intense games of <a href="http://amzn.to/2o3NDWA">Monopoly</a>. This week it seems that someone always ends up crying, but I guess they're still getting math in? </div>
Not-So-SAHMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01449442571749036593noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7050866223284067912.post-60194401275940811982018-02-02T09:02:00.002-05:002018-02-02T09:02:35.474-05:00The Friday Five!! It's been so long since I've done a Friday Five that I almost forgot what to share! We are also smack in the middle of wrestling season, and with both kids wrestling this year, I feel like almost all of our non-school time has been spent in a gym. So we haven't had a lot of creative time lately, which has been driving us all nuts! Nevertheless, here's what we've been up to this week ....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6mvfFSrOBM4O3qRvPEgc5acaOYKyQUQAy70gzzn4Mr3BjPZb1jaL1KmEKqPMi1KHvS5vbDhhuXD1wjLhsEoHHVYcQZ2NUeZtpvKu7qPd7qJUNqxuJcSWrId7MWrVmdJo0i82CiNFhmTKW/s1600/2.2-FF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="791" data-original-width="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6mvfFSrOBM4O3qRvPEgc5acaOYKyQUQAy70gzzn4Mr3BjPZb1jaL1KmEKqPMi1KHvS5vbDhhuXD1wjLhsEoHHVYcQZ2NUeZtpvKu7qPd7qJUNqxuJcSWrId7MWrVmdJo0i82CiNFhmTKW/s1600/2.2-FF.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><u>Making</u></b><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> -- the kids are PUMPED for the Eagles in the Super Bowl this weekend and have been busy making signs to hang all over the house with <a href="http://amzn.to/2DVxhVZ">oil pastels</a> and decorating all our windows with <a href="http://amzn.to/2Expsqq">these amazing gel crayons</a> (they wipe right off, promise!!). </span></span></span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><b style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><u>Playing</u></b><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> -- I've finally succeeded in getting the kids to play their math homework games together! We are always looking for dice, <a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51aH87kL9yL.jpg">so this set of math dice</a> has really come in handy! </span></span></span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><b style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><u>Cooking</u></b><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> -- we successfully wrapped up our first Whole30 of 2018 and I decided to extend it to a Whole60 -- I'm just not ready yet! <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2017/03/fennel-crusted-pork-chops-with-potatoes.html">These pork chops with potatoes</a> are a huge family fave and I always wish I had an enormous cast iron skillet so I could cook double the recipe at once! </span></span></span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><b style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><u>Wanting</u></b><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> -- not to become that super annoying clean-eating friend, but I tried out Vital Proteins collagen in my coffee this last Whole30 round and kind of love it. Maybe I'm just imaging it, but I do feel like my skin and hair have been better. I always get a bad case of dermatitis in the winter, so I'm willing to try anything! I'd like to kill two birds with one stone and <a href="http://amzn.to/2GFC13G">try the Collagen Creamer</a>, but I need to wait until I finish up my canister of regular collagen. </span></span></span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><b style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><u>Reading</u></b><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> -- Kane is obsessed with the </span><a href="http://amzn.to/2BOPylS" style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Adventures of Tin Tin</a><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> and has a volume with him at all times. I love that he is digging into something himself, but it's impossible to get him to put it down to do anything -- like walk down the street. My mom brought me some of my favorite childhood books on a recent trip and we've all been enthralled with <a href="http://amzn.to/2EbylIz">Black Beauty</a> this week. I love the Illustrated Junior Classics version and we are finding all sorts of neat tidbits about the value of treating animals (AND PEOPLE!!) with kindness and respect. Love </span></span></span>Not-So-SAHMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01449442571749036593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7050866223284067912.post-78218709169091501632018-01-31T05:00:00.000-05:002018-01-31T05:00:23.648-05:00Sheet Pan Teriyaki Salmon and Vegetables + 30 Days of Dinner!! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLHufAfYa_-Ww9UgEqY5R_KuiTtgoP-g2siz9KMruohqZuqO4Oh-_CBbfLQjo0w0iu6C_TNPVaVSx2l7FYr-IEi4p5xblzxnj7Sspl7hYlIufYy99R-IbJEQvrhGFIKi_FxPZSCEwLPfjL/s1600/Salmon_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLHufAfYa_-Ww9UgEqY5R_KuiTtgoP-g2siz9KMruohqZuqO4Oh-_CBbfLQjo0w0iu6C_TNPVaVSx2l7FYr-IEi4p5xblzxnj7Sspl7hYlIufYy99R-IbJEQvrhGFIKi_FxPZSCEwLPfjL/s1600/Salmon_.jpg" /></a></div>
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We just finished our first successful Whole30 in a looooong time and I feel great! And, as I've done in the past, I've decided to just keep going for another 30 days. It's become routine by now and so much easier for me to continue on at this point. So all the meals this 30 days are Whole30 compliant. I tried a lot of new dishes, but have plenty of standbys sprinkled in. And we only dined out three times this entire month, which is a pretty amazing feat for our family.<br />
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I am not a big fan of cooking fish at home, but this Sheet Pan Teriyaki Salmon and Vegetables was so easy and so tasty that I picked it to share. Great for a weeknight meal!<br />
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<b><u>Sheet Pan Teriyaki Salmon + Vegetables </u></b></div>
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(<a href="http://www.justjessieb.com/2018/01/sheet-pan-teriyaki-salmon-vegetables.html">from Just Jessie B</a>)</div>
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<b><u>Ingredients</u></b><br />
- 1 to 1 1/2 lb salmon filet<br />
- 1 white onion, sliced<br />
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced (you can really use whatever veg you want -- I used up some cherry tomatoes I had in place of the pepper)<br />
- 2 to 3 cups brocoli florets<br />
- 2 to 3 cups green beans<br />
- avocado oil, for drizzling (olive oil works too)<br />
- salt and pepper<br />
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<b><u>Directions</u></b><br />
1. Preheat the oven to 425 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.<br />
2. Add the vegetables to the lined baking sheet. Drizzle with oil, season with salt + pepper, and lightly toss to coat the veggies. Arrange them flat on the baking sheet and transfer to oven.<br />
3. Roast the vegetables for 10 minutes.<br />
4. While the veggies roast, combine the sauce ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a simmer. Continue to cook, stirring often, allowing the sauce to reduce and thicken. Turn the heat off once it reaches a consistency you prefer.<br />
5. When the vegetables finish, move them to the sides of the pan to make room for the salmon. Drizzle the salmon with oil and a sprinkle of salt + pepper.<br />
6. Place the baking sheet back in the oven, and roast for 15 minutes longer or until salmon is cooked through. Once finished, drizzle the entire dish with teriyaki sauce.<br />
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<br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><b style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Day 1 (M)</b><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> - Dijon Chicken Skillet (</span><a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2016/11/easy-honey-dijon-skillet-chicken-30.html" style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">basically followed this recipe, but left out honey</a><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> and sherry); cauliflower rice; salad </span></span></span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 2 (T)</b> - <a href="https://www.halfbakedharvest.com/crockpot-beef-chili/">Crockpot Beef Chili</a> (leave out maple syrup); green beans</span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 3 (W)</b> - <a href="https://www.thechunkychef.com/one-pan-pork-chops-apples-onions/">One Pan Pork Chops with Apples and Onions</a>; <a href="https://nomnompaleo.com/post/1670459416/roasted-brussels-sprouts-and-bacon">Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Bacon</a>; roasted potatoes </span></span></span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 4 (Th)</b> -<a href="http://simply-delicious-food.com/beef-ragu-parmesan-gnocchi/"> Beef Ragu</a> (no gnocchi); baked potatoes; green beans </span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 5 (F)</b> - <a href="https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/slow-cooker-crispy-chicken-carnitas/">Slow Cooker Crispy Chicken Carnitas</a> (no tortillas); sweet potato fries </span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 6 (Sat)</b> - dinner out (steak, baked potato, brussels sprouts -- all plain)</span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 7 (Sun)</b> - Dijon Chicken Skillet (same as above); baked potato; green beans </span><br />
<br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 8 (M)</b> - <a href="http://soletshangout.com/totally-easy-slow-cooker-kalua-pork/">Slow-Cooker Kalua Pig</a>; cabbage and kale mix; roasted sweet potatoes </span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 9 (T)</b> - brinner (poached eggs, bacon, breakfast potatoes, salad)</span></span></span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 10 (W)</b> - <a href="http://www.wholesomelicious.com/beef-enchilada-bake-cilantro-avocado-cream-sauce-paleo-whole30/">Beef Enchilada Bake</a>; cauliflower rice </span></span></span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 11 (Th)</b> - <a href="https://kalynskitchen.com/crockpot-beef-stew-recipe-with-olives/">Garlic Lover Stew with Olives, Capers + Tomatoes</a>; cauliflower rice; salad </span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 12 (F)</b> - grilled burgers; sweet potato fries; salad</span></span></span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 13 (Sat)</b> - Pan-Seared Steaks with Chimichurri Brussels Sprouts (from Whole30 Fast & Easy Cookbook <a href="https://www.marthastewart.com/314173/pan-seared-steaks-with-chimichurri-sauce">but see similar here</a> -- use ghee or oil instead of butter); baked potato; salad </span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 14 (Sun)</b> - <a href="https://www.skinnytaste.com/slow-cooker-paleo-jalapeno-popper/">Jalapeño Popper Chicken Chili</a>; green beans </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 15 (M)</b> - Trader Joe's frozen burgers (no one liked these, but they did the trick in a pinch); roasted carrots; potatoes </span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><b style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Day 16 (T)</b><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> - </span><a href="http://www.wholesomelicious.com/creamy-smoky-chipotle-pork-chops/" style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Creamy + Smoky Chipotle Pork Chops</a><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> (I didn't have time to make the sauce and the chops needed it); leftover potatoes; salad</span></span></span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Day 17 (W)</b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> - <a href="https://www.jaysbakingmecrazy.com/2016/11/06/paleo-beef-barbacoa-chipotle-copycat/">Paleo Beef Barbacoa</a>; cauliflower rice; sautéed shaved brussels sprouts </span></span></span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 18 (Th)</b> - dinner out at CAVA (<a href="https://www.washingtonian.com/2018/01/17/whole-30-friendly-places-to-eat-in-dc/">got all totally Whole30-compliant din</a>, but my stomach still didn't feel exactly right after)</span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Day 19 (F)</b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> - <a href="http://www.thesophisticatedcaveman.com/beef-plantain-skillet-with-lemon-basil-aioli/">Beef and Plantain Skillet</a> (a runner-up for the featured recipe!); sweet potato fries </span></span></span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Day 20 (Sat)</b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> - grilled steak; </span><a href="https://www.paleorunningmomma.com/twice-baked-sweet-potatoes-paleo/" style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Twice Baked Potatoes</a><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">; <a href="http://nomnompaleo.com/post/4207413012/cauliflower-carrot-puree">Cauliflower + Carrot Puree</a> </span></span></span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 21 (Sun)</b> - leftovers </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /></span><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Day 22 (M)</b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> - <a href="http://www.southbeachprimal.com/spicy-beanless-chili/">Spicy Beanless Chili</a> (I wasn't a fan of this -- the heat was overpowering); salad</span></span></span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Day 23 (T)</b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> - <a href="http://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/257004/zucchini-noodles-with-avocado-pesto-shrimp/">Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Pesto and Shrimp</a> (I usually don't like zoodles, but the pesto made this dish delicious!); salad</span></span></span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Day 24 (W)</b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> - grilled flank steak (<a href="http://realsimplegood.com/paleo-steak-marinade-paleo-gf-sugar-free/">with this marinade - SO good</a>); omelets; and sweet potato fries </span></span></span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Day 25 (Th)</b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> - <a href="https://www.thekitchn.com/recipe-slow-cooker-brisket-and-onions-recipes-from-the-kitchn-45437">Slow Cooker Brisket and Onions</a> (I prefer this slow cooked in the oven); brussels sprouts; potatoes </span></span></span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 26 (F)</b> - leftovers </span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"><b>Day 27 (Sat)</b> - Sheet Pan Teriyaki Salmon + Vegetables </span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Day 28 (Sun)</b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> - dinner out (steak, carrots, and potatoes -- all plain)</span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /></span><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Day 29 (M)</b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> - sautéed chicken; sweet potato hash; avocado </span></span></span><br style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 15.399999618530273px;">Day 30 (T)</b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.399999618530273px;"> - <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2017/03/fennel-crusted-pork-chops-with-potatoes.html">Fennel Crusted Pork Chops with Potatoes + Shallots</a>; roasted green beans + broccoli </span></span></span><br />
<br />Not-So-SAHMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01449442571749036593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7050866223284067912.post-76394820469508108332018-01-29T08:38:00.000-05:002018-01-29T09:19:57.345-05:00California Days 5 and 6: Yosemite <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi58kgHQztlkUc4qTvPWliDpvwMBbwKqGkS_IfawefRjg4huAvVgh58FZWQi-ePG6p-n00p6_KIiMHBy7fWr_BaR2TLvq7AgYvKajrCQr7mI_a82sgT3hFaJQvBpycSmwyepmFxSLOT72j4/s1600/Yosemite+26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi58kgHQztlkUc4qTvPWliDpvwMBbwKqGkS_IfawefRjg4huAvVgh58FZWQi-ePG6p-n00p6_KIiMHBy7fWr_BaR2TLvq7AgYvKajrCQr7mI_a82sgT3hFaJQvBpycSmwyepmFxSLOT72j4/s1600/Yosemite+26.jpg" /></a></div>
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Oh holy hell! I started this blog post back in October and then who knows what happened. Part of it is that I had just gotten a new camera, this trip was the first time I was using it, and I'm not really happy with the photos. Part of it is just that I've been busy doing all kinds of random things and haven't had as much time to blog. In any event, I haven't been able to get back to editing photos until now! I'm determined to get through them though because I love having a catalog of our experiences and I so rarely print out any photos that I take, so at least I have them here! So, back to our 2017 summer vacation ....<br />
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I think that the best worst part of planning any vacation is trying to parcel out where and how to spend each day. We allotted four days for our excursion to <a href="https://www.nps.gov/yose/index.htm">Yosemite</a> and we could have just as easily spent an entire week there -- especially since it's a bit of a trek from San Francisco and we spent the better part of two days traveling there and back. <br />
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Joel had a bunch of work to do in the a.m. before we hit the road, so I took the kids to <a href="http://www.laboulangeriesf.com/locations-1/">La Boulangerie on Pine for breakfast</a>. By the time we got back, the car was packed and we ready to go (thanks to Joel's brother for letting us borrow his car for the Yosemite trip!). The kids were exhausted and slept a lot of the ride out but they woke up right as the twisty mountain ride started. We hadn't spent a lot of time planning on where to stop for lunch because we wanted to get as far as we could first. But the kids needed a break from the car and <a href="http://prieststation.com/">Priest Station Cafe</a> seemed like our best bet. It was fine -- nothing fancy. But the view is pretty.<br />
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It wasn't too long after lunch that we arrived at our lodging location. If you talk to anyone about going to Yosemite, they'll tell you that you need to book everything far in advance. And they are right. And we didn't. I went to book an in-the-park stay a few months ahead of our trip and the annoying park system (it is SO annoying - you select something to book and then a person emails you back saying what they actually have available. And back and forth. And back and forth) basically laughed at me. But what was available turned out to be one of the best surprises of our trip. We booked a <a href="http://www.rushcreeklodge.com/">Hillside Villa at Rush Creek Lodge</a>. It was an incredibly family-friendly lodge that reminded me of what I think an upscale Wolf Creek Lodge would be like (I haven't been). The villa was roomy and nice, but still woodsy. We checked in and the kids booked it to the amazing pool before we had chance to do much else. As Joel and I settled in with drinks from the pool bar, Joel remarked that this was the kinds of "camping" he could get into. Ha!<br />
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When the kids tired of swimming, we checked out all of the games they lodge had to offer. There are a few different restaurants at the lodge, but the kids weren't in the mood to sit down and I was kind of sick of eating huge meals. So we chose to hit up the general store for sandwiches and chips and we picnicked outside. Btw, we hit up the general store HEAVY over our stay there. It had everything, but as you would expect, was expensive. Next time we'd definitely stop at a grocery store first to stock up. The villa had a fridge so we bought things for breakfast the next morning. After din we hit up the nightly s'mores station -- the kids were thrilled! They got back in the pool while Joel and I cozied up to a fire pit and hit up the bar again. The sunset was gorgeous!<br />
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We all slept HARD that night, which was a good because I woke everyone up super early to get into the park. I smelled what I thought was campfire and told the kids it must be the wood-burning furnaces that are in the villas (it gets cold at night!). But then we started our drive into the park (the entrance is only 1/2 mile from the park's 120 west entrance) and it got cloudier and cloudier. And our eyes burned a bit. I pulled up the park's website in the one spot the internet worked and BAM, forest fire mania in the park. It appeared that there were two pretty serious forest fires burning in Yosemite, but the park was still open. On our drive in, I read to the kids from a <a href="http://amzn.to/2DG9wRD">great guide to Yosemite for kids -- it helped me plan our trip there quite a bit too</a>. It happened to include some good info about the role of fire in the park and that helped lay a good foundation for our trip there.<br />
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We stopped at the typical vantage points on the way down to Yosemite Valley. My plan was to stop at the visitor center there and confirm the hike I wanted to do was going to work out.<br />
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We dressed in lots of layers knowing that it would be cool when we arrived down in the valley but as we hiked throughout the day, it would get warmer. I didn't want to waste much time at the visitor center -- I heard the trails get really crowded unless you get moving in the morning. I was a little worried about the air quality and hiking with the kids, but Joel and I figured we'd see how it went and we could always turn around. So we confirmed our hiking plan with a ranger and hit the trail!<br />
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Joel and I decided to try an ambitious hike: Vernal + Nevada Falls. A 5.4 mile, 5-6 hour hike round trip. You take the mist trail up to Vernal Fall and then keep climbing up to reach Nevada Falls. We did a loop and took the John Muir Trail back down and I was SO happy -- the way up was super slippery. I'm going to put this not-so-humble brag out there: our kids rocked it. This was a HARD hike (I had a harder time coming down than going up -- my knees!). It was hard for most adults. But our kids persisted without much whining. And it was an amazing thing to do together.<br />
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The falls were insanely beautiful and every turn revealed new mountains of rocks jutting up higher and higher. And when you turned around to see from where you climbed -- WOW. Everyone was into it and I was happy that I hadn't applied for a permit to hike to Half Dome because I think the kids would have pushed for it (it wouldn't have been a good idea) given the chance.<br />
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At the top of Vernal Fall we took a little break to have a snack and drink water (and snap a vacation tradition photo of Joel fielding work emails and phone calls mid-family-activity). We rounded our way up the side of Vernal Fall to continue hiking up to Nevada Fall and came across an awesome field of rock sculptures. The kids would've stayed building for a long time, but I was worried they'd hit a wall and we pushed on.<br />
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The hike up to Nevada Fall was steep and didn't have any of the same mist sprays onto the trail that Vernal Fall had. There was a little more complaining this length of the hike, but we eventually made it up! And we had lunch sitting basically on top of a waterfall (we'd packed bread, cheese, fruit, and some goodies from our lodge's general store and everyone ate with no complaints).<br />
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We had a long hike back down and I didn't get a ton of photos because I was trying to deal with my old knees. But we loved feeling the runoff spray coming off the mountains as we wound our way down. We returned to the Yosemite Valley visitor center with not much time left before closing. But the kids were dead set on getting their junior ranger pin so we picked up the packets and got to work. One of the tasks was to learn something new from a park ranger. With time dwindling, we headed over to the Indian Cultural Exhibit and Village at the Yosemite Museum. The kids beelined for a ranger demonstrating Indian instruments. We stood listening to an eagle bone flute and I had total deja vu. I knew this guy. HOW did I know this guy? Lightbulb. It was Park Ranger Shelton Johnson featured in our kids guide I mentioned above. He started out as a ranger in DC and then ended up in Yosemite -- fate!<br />
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The kids got his signature on their ranger packets and we hightailed it back to the visitor center to collect their badges. They were SO excited. And we were SO tired. We headed back to the lodge, ate at at the nightly poolside barbecue (I've never seen the kids eat so much barbecued fish), and crawled to bed!!<br />
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text-indent: 20px; top: 45156px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span>Not-So-SAHMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01449442571749036593noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7050866223284067912.post-62672374514661840152017-12-27T16:45:00.000-05:002017-12-27T19:37:54.761-05:0045 Days of Dinner!! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE42b8S1wb4KJKzaXFncMy60-9GaFy1M4mrInSB4KB-9dmQ7wmefCKZGXo87J0qF6Y-ly2MNox0Z4c3Oqu66NRzTXz4lAlbZixIBtahcX7itb4UwHJ7tnJkXI09jkOrrtSjwPya5aUSL8V/s1600/30+din_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE42b8S1wb4KJKzaXFncMy60-9GaFy1M4mrInSB4KB-9dmQ7wmefCKZGXo87J0qF6Y-ly2MNox0Z4c3Oqu66NRzTXz4lAlbZixIBtahcX7itb4UwHJ7tnJkXI09jkOrrtSjwPya5aUSL8V/s1600/30+din_.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
No, that's not a plate of homemade fancy sweets for dinner. That's a shot of the kids' experiencing augmented reality at the <a href="https://artechouse.com/">Artechouse</a> Nutcracker exhibit. Real life has been a little crazy lately and, as you might have noticed, I haven't had much time to post much less grab a good shot of a homecooked meal. And I'm actually so far behind on sharing our monthly meal post that I have a month and a half to share!<br />
<br />
I am feeling good about how 2018 is looking though. We've got a new round of Whole30 lined up (SO excited), lots of family celebrations, trips, and a new property in the works too! I'm going to spend the rest of the holiday break brainstorming a bit about what I'd like to do in this space in the upcoming year. I have lots of different ideas percolating, so stay tuned. In the meantime, here's what we ate for the last month and a half!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
* * *</div>
<br />
<b>Sunday</b> -- Chicken Avocado Burgers (Plated)<br />
<br />
<b>Monday</b> -- <a href="http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/cheesy-chicken-fajitas">Cheesy Chicken Fajitas</a>; rice and beans<br />
<b>Tuesday</b> -- <a href="http://www.cookinglight.com/recipes/pork-medallions-scallions-magic-green-sauce">Pork Medallions with Scallions and Magic Green Sauce</a> -- everyone LOVED this<br />
<b>Wednesday</b> -- Shrimp and Roasted Carrot Tostadas (Plated)<br />
<b>Thursday</b> -- <a href="https://www.pipandebby.com/pip-ebby/the-best-slow-cooker-chicken-pot-pie#_a5y_p=6231950">Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie</a>; salad<br />
<b>Friday </b>-- Greek Lamb Meatballs (Plated)<br />
<b>Saturday</b> -- dinner out<br />
<b>Sunday</b> -- dinner out<br />
<br />
<b>Monday</b> -- dinner out<br />
<b>Tuesday</b> -- <a href="http://notsosahm.blogspot.com/2015/12/apple-cranberry-turkey-meatballs-30.html">Apple Cranberry Turkey Meatballs</a>; carrots; egg noodles<br />
<b>Wednesday</b> -- Soy Glazed Steak (Plated)<br />
<b>Thursday</b> -- <a href="http://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/pork-and-brisket-chili">Pork and Brisket Chili </a><br />
<b>Friday</b> -- Blackened Salmon Burgers (Plated)<br />
<b>Saturday</b> -- dinner out<br />
<b>Sunday</b> -- dinner out<br />
<br />
<b>Monday</b> -- <a href="http://www.cookinglight.com/recipes/20-minute-chicken-enchiladas">20-Minute Chicken Enchiladas</a><br />
<b>Tuesday</b> -- <a href="http://www.cookinglight.com/recipes/crab-cakes-spicy-remoulade">Crab Cakes with Spicy Rémoulade </a><br />
<b>Wednesday</b> -- dinner out<br />
<b>Thursday</b> -- Thanksgiving dinner! We had shrimp cocktail, charcuterie, <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/smoked-salmon-7-layer-dip">Smoked Salmon 7-Layer Dip</a>, and a <a href="http://www.cookinglight.com/recipes/balsamic-onion-thyme-tarte-tatin">Balsamic Onion and Thyme Tarte Tartin</a> for apps. For din I made <a href="https://steelehousekitchen.com/roasted-turkey-breast-with-maple-bourbon-glaze">Maple Bourbon Glazed Turkey Breast</a>, <a href="http://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/sourdough-stuffing-sausage-red-onion-and-kale">Sourdough Stuffing with Sausage, Red Onion and Kale</a>, <a href="https://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/caramelized-onion-bacon-gravy">Caramelized Onion and Bacon Gravy</a>, <a href="https://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/grapefruit-apricot-cranberry-relish-rosemary">Grapefruit-Apricot Cranberry Relish with Rosemary</a>, <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/ultra-creamy-mashed-potatoes">Ultra-Creamy Mashed Potatoes</a> (to DIE for!), and <a href="https://www.marthastewart.com/1522641/lemon-pepper-green-beans">Lemon Pepper Green Beans with Minty Yogurt Sauce</a>. Fam filled in the rest!<br />
<b>Friday</b> -- leftovers!<br />
<b>Saturday </b>-- dinner out<br />
<b>Sunday </b>-- dinner out<br />
<br />
<b>Monday</b> -- brinner<br />
<b>Tuesday</b> -- Shrimp and Roasted Carrot Tostadas (Plated)<br />
<b>Wednesday</b> -- leftovers<br />
<b>Thursday</b> -- Butter Basted Steak (Plated)<br />
<b>Friday</b> -- Peruvian Chicken Sandwiches (Plated)<br />
<b>Saturday</b> -- dinner out<br />
<b>Sunday</b> -- dinner out<br />
<br />
<b>Monday</b> -- <a href="https://www.thekitchn.com/recipe-one-pot-shrimp-scampi-238048">One Pot Shrimp Scampi</a>; salad<br />
<b>Tuesday</b> -- dinner out<br />
<b>Wednesday</b> -- Miso Salmon and Quinoa Bowls (Plated)<br />
<b>Thursday</b> -- Piri Piri Chicken (Plated)<br />
<b>Friday</b> -- <a href="https://pinchofyum.com/healthy-mexican-casserole-roasted-corn-peppers">Mexican Casserole with Roasted Corn and Peppers</a><br />
<b>Saturday</b> -- dinner out<br />
<b>Sunday</b> -- <a href="https://www.thekitchn.com/recipe-cauliflower-italian-sau-137481">Cauliflower and Chicken Sausage Casserole</a>; green beans<br />
<br />
<b>Monday</b> -- <a href="https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/simple-chicken-enchiladas">Simple Chicken Enchiladas </a><br />
<b>Tuesday</b> -- <a href="https://www.thekitchn.com/recipe-slow-cooker-brisket-and-onions-recipes-from-the-kitchn-45437">Slow Cooker Brisket and Onions</a>; latkes<br />
<b>Wednesday</b> -- Chicken Tinga Tostadas (Plated)<br />
<b>Thursday</b> -- dinner out<br />
<b>Friday </b>-- <a href="https://www.thekitchn.com/recipe-ground-beef-taco-casserole-249773">Ground Beef Taco Casserole</a><br />
<b>Saturday</b> -- dinner out<br />
<b>Sunday</b> -- dinner out<br />
<br />
<b>Monday</b> -- dinner out<br />
<b>Tuesday</b> -- Steak Gyros (Plated)<br />
<br />
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