It does not really matter the season -- we are always on the go. Sometimes it is because life is busy... other times, it is because my husband does not sit still very well. I personally can go through spells and sit at home for days on end. Not him. Off to work, to the gym, to trivia with friends. He does not sit still very well. Because of this we eat out more than we should, which is still probably less than most Americans really...
As I mention last week, January is a month for "investing" for us. Investing in ourselves financially, health, food, and other things. In a season when it is cold and damp, like it is in the midwest, getting out to eat is a tempting thing to do, but these eight quick dinners are dinners that we have been making at home to help us "invest" in our health and save money, regarding how much running around we have to do.
- veggie + garlic + salt + balsamic vinegar (seriously :: roasted cauliflower, roasted brussels sprouts, roasted broccoli, anything :: like this one)
- zucchini noodles with basil balsamic marinated tomatoes (minus the pine nuts)
- mustard glazed salmon
- loaded sweet potatoes (but we poke fork holes in them and microwave for about 5 minutes)
- cucumbers + tomatoes + onion salad (sometimes with balsamic and feta instead of recipe)
- mini meatloafs
- tortilla-less oven-baked fajitas
- canned corn + canned tomatoes + canned black beans (kind of like this mexican corn salad but not as fancy)
:: Please note, that we mainly eat grilled chicken or grilled pork steaks regardless of the season. Yes, it's cold, but my husband loves the taste of grilled anything over baked anything. And he is willing to grill despite the chilly temperatures. If it is a side item, assume that we pair this with chicken or pork steaks -- depending on the sale of the week at the grocery store. :: enjoy!
photo credit :: the joyful foodie