Happy almost new year to one and all!  January 1 signifies a fresh start to many, although I do think we have many opportunities to wipe the slate and start anew, including every morning!  But if you have made any resolutions and they involve improving your health, then I will assume more cooking at home is in store for you.

I have been posting these dinner planners for the last 2 years, and so many of my students and readers have attested to the fact that planning and organization is the KEY to eating healthfully.  I have been making a weekly dinner plan on Sundays for over 20 years and it is the only way dinner gets made, given my schedule.  Knowing on Sunday what you are cooking for the week will also allow you to go throughout your day without the “dinner cloud” over your head.  You know the one that is always nagging,  “what are you going to make for dinner tonight?” “Should you start defrosting that chicken?” “Hurry and run to the market before after school pick-up!”

You can also follow me on Instagram where I post my weeknight dinners, as well as breakfasts and anything else that’s inspiring me at the moment.  Happy cooking and here’s to your health!

Here’s your dinner planner for the week:Continue reading

We had a lovely week in Park City despite the lack of snow!  Thank you to FOX 13 for inviting me on the show to make the Banana Walnut French Toast Casserole from my book. And thank you to Dolly’s Bookstore for hosting me for a lovely book signing!  We arrived safely in NY and there are dozens of boxes in my bedroom which need wrapping for Christmas Eve and Christmas day.  Plus lots to cook for the holidays!  I hope you and your loved ones have a joyous Christmas together.

Here’s your dinner planner for the week:Continue reading

Meatless Monday: kale and white bean minestrone

Tuesday: slow roasted salmon and butternut squash salad with pomegranates and toasted pumpkin seeds

Wednesday: spicy poblano, black bean and quinoa enchiladas – I will use my homemade enchiladas rojas sauce from this recipe

Thursday: one-pot farro with cauliflower and golden raisins, chicken apple sausages

Friday: hashbrown casserole, green salad with everyday salad dressing #2

Saturday: homemade wood fired pizza night at my parents house, Italian white bean and tuna salad with capers from my cookbook, I will use divina slow roasted jarred tomatoes instead of fresh here.

Christmas Eve: We always have dozens of fish dishes, including linguine with clam sauce, baccala, stuffed clams, eel, octopus and more.  Here’s a recipe for whole roasted branzino if you’re in the mood for an easy and elegant fish dish.

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