I am really enjoying this "cooler" weather; we have had days below 70 degrees and more are forecasted for this next week. I so enjoy being able to actually cook again instead of trying to plan meals that don't take much work and do not require the stove. As I mentioned last week, I planned quite a few new recipes and just about all of them were a success so look for the upcoming Food Friday posts (one went up yesterday!) This week I have a mix of new and old which should be fun! I'm also trying to use my crock-pot more for no other reason than it really is so nice to fix-it-and-forget it. To be honest, I never liked using it that much when I worked full time - I found most recipes were over cooked after 9 hours . .. but now that I'm home, it becomes my best friend for both main dishes and side dishes :-)
Saturday: I have a concert and Darryl can actually attend! The kids will have mac and cheese before the babysitter comes for the evening; Darryl and I plan to go out to dinner after the concert so we'll each have a snack on our own before leaving (I have to leave several hours before he does!)
Sunday: As is normal, I plan two meals for Sunday (verses just a regular lunch and then dinner). After church we are going to try Orange Chicken in the Crock pot (I've been looking for recipes with shorter cooking times so they work for Sundays) with Rice and Baked Wontons. In the evening, we'll have Corn Dog Muffins and Pool Side Dip and Chips
Monday: Chicken Fried Chicken, Mashed Potatoes with gravy and corn. This is a new recipe that I wanted to try all summer but the thought of frying something in the heat was not worth it . . .this is one of those "comfort foods" that we all love!
Tuesday: Honey Garlic Pork Chops, Summer Veggie Tian, and Garlic Bread
Wednesday: I am planning to take the boys either bowling or to a movie and then we are going to meet Darryl for Dinner. Should be a fun day!
Thursday: Cabbage Rolls in the Crock Pot (it doesn't look like I've shared this one before - I will have to do that soon!), squashed potatoes, green beens and corn bread
Friday: Crispy Orange Beef, Broccoli and Rice
I plan on baking a Chocolate Cola Cake and trying out Lemon Puppy Chow. Oh, and I plan on making my favorite Chicken Pasta Salad for my lunch this week. YUM!!
