What to Cook This Week

Project 365, Day 45

Happy Valentine’s Day if that’s something you care about. I’ve always loved Valentine’s Day but not all for romantic reasons. It’s just one of those days that to me, feels light and happy. When Charles and I lived on opposite sides of the state for years, February 14th was always spent with friends, doing little gestures for each other to make the other smile. Growing up, my mom always had sweet little surprises for us. Sometimes, it was a morning scavenger hunt (my favorite). Other times, it was a special breakfast if she had the time.

Charles and I don’t really go all out or anything. When we were in Florida, we accidentally started a tradition of heading to the beach no matter how chilly it was, sitting on a blanket, talking about life. Then we’d go back home and we’d cook something. Usually some fresh pasta and sauce. I loved it. We haven’t continued that tradition here because the beach is a bit further (and far more crowded), but we’ll see what happens!

Anyhow, I haven’t done a What to Cook This Week post in a few weeks, because honestly, after Whole 30, after cooking three meals a day for four weeks straight, I was cooked out. We ordered in A LOT. But I’m back at it after being a bit overindulgent. Of course, Wednesday we’ll do another Lillördag, which will involve some delivery likely, but here’s what I’ll be whipping up the rest of the week. What about you?

Marcella Hazan’s Bolognese Sauce (+ My Massaged Kale Salad)

What is it about pasta and “romance” huh? I didn’t actually mean to make pasta and sauce on Valentine’s Day, but I have some ground beef that I defrosted a few days ago I need to use. Romantic, huh? I love Marcella Hazan’s sauce because it’s a nice combo of tomato-y ragu and the dairy-based bolognese I grew to love in my travels around Italy!

Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili (Whole 30)

Just because Whole 30 is technically over doesn’t mean I don’t enjoy the recipes! This turns out pretty thick and stewy for me, but the Japanese sweet potato in here is always such a pleasant surprise. A little sweet, a lot savory, a touch creamy…great for a February evening.

Lightened Up Chicken & Rice

My best friend Alicia makes the most unbelievable arroz con pollo (chicken and rice). When she sounds the alarm that she’s making it, all the friends form a line outside her door to get a plate. Lucky for me, I always get the first helping. 🙂 This is not her recipe. I’ve never quite mastered hers, and maybe that’s for the best. But this one is very good for being “lightened up.” It comes together in just over an hour, which isn’t terrible. I typically use regular beer instead of light, and chicken drumsticks instead of thighs, but it would be good regardless. Oh, and ALWAYS serve with a side of maduros (fried sweet plantains).

Pan Seared Cod (w/ Fingerling Potatoes & Asparagus)

This is maybe the third or fourth time I’ve linked this recipe. I have a few frozen cod filets in the freezer I want to use up, and I know after Wednesday night take out, I’ll want something light and lean on Thursday. This recipe is so.freaking.good. It’s legit restaurant quality and comes together in, um, about 20 minutes?

Classic Cheeseburgers & Fries

Another photo I know I’ve used before. A solid burger recipe. BUT, if you want something really special, try this black garlic burger recipe. One of our favorites shows in this house is Bob’s Burgers (it’s our “put on to go to sleep” show), and I have the show’s cookbook. This is one of the standout recipes. The black garlic aioli is spectacular if you can get your hands on some black garlic, and the fresh mozzarella pairs perfectly with it. Mild, stretchy, delicious. The ideal Friday night treat.

Alright, that’s all I’ve got for you. Maybe this week, I’ll surprise you with a love story…I like to keep it fresh around here. A love story…on Valentine’s Day? How basic. 😉

OH, and Tuesday is going to be a VERY BIG DAY for me. BIG. HUGE. I’m so excited to finally be able to release the project I worked on last fall. I hope you’ll stick around until then and cheer me on.

See you tomorrow, friends.