The house is eerily quiet, aside from a question-asking almost three year old, and i’m sitting down to my second cup of coffee. Ahhhh. School has begun. Looking forward to spending more time here, hopefully, and penning out some of the posts that have been swirling around in my head…. but first, here’s what we ate last week!

MONDAY //

Grilled Jerk Chicken w/ Mango Nectarine Salsa
notes: I failed and did not have jerk seasoning, so ended up using TJ’s everyday seasoning, which I’m sure made for a completely different taste, but delicious nonetheless. Omitted the jalapeno from the fruit salsa and skipped making the chile butter. Flavor party in your mouth. This was great.

On the Side : Trader Joe’s Salad Kit, Coconut Rice

TUESDAY //

 

Lasagna Stuffed Peppers w/ Hearty Tomato Sauce
notes: Fall oddly came in August this year. We had a cold rainy Tuesday and I was so glad I had checked the weather and planned this meal for that night. So cozy and hearty and satisfying. Even the kids love this. (And for those who don’t, I reserve the leftover meat sauce and serve it over pasta or just on its’ own with paremesan sprinkled on top). I like to use a dollop of creme freche instead of ricotta)

On the Side : Kale & Brussel Sprouts Salad
notes: This will remain one of my all time favorite kale/brussel salads. I like to use the pre-cooked bacon from TJ’s just to make it really easy. The honey roasted sliced almonds from TJ’s are also a favorite.

WEDNESDAY //

DATE NIGHT : Kids had Mozzarella Cheese Sticks w/ Marinara, Carrot Sticks and Grapes

THURSDAY //

 

Chicken Enchiladas (made up recipe. Baked chicken w/ spices. Shredded and added to a homemade white sauce w/ shredded monterey jack cheese. Topped with leftover cheese). Baked at 375 for 20-25 minutes.

On the Side : Brown Rice, Pineapple Cucumber Salad

FRIDAY //

Peach Burgers
notes: I will be so sad when summer is over and I can’t make these burgers anymore! I have been having a problem the past couple times I made this with the burgers falling apart on the grill. Next time, I’m going to add an egg to help bind together.

On the Side : Summer Corn & Tomato Salad
notes: TJ’s sweet white frozen corn has always been a favorite, and it shines in this recipe. Totally tastes like fresh corn. This was super easy to throw together. I added some diced avocado as well.

SATURDAY //

Chicken Noodle Soup (made up my own recipe)

On the Side : Cheese + Crackers, Beer Bread
notes: I do believe this is my favorite beer bread recipe I’ve made. And you just can’t beat the ease!

SUNDAY //

Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Hoagies
notes: this was a great, throw in the crock pot before church and come home to lunch recipe. I used one can of the fire roasted diced tomatoes and one can of regular. Forgot to buy crushed tomatoes, so I added a 1/2 c water instead. Melted Havarti over top with the red peppers and these were a hit.

On the Side : Diced Watermelon, TJ’s Garlic Fries