Menu Plan 12/09 - 12/15

B is no longer cooking.  I think he has convinced himself that by cooking he is depriving me of my love for it.  Yeah, right.

Sunday
Dinner:  Chicken Salad Sandwiches with Homemade Cole Slaw

Monday
Dinner:  Black Bean Patties on Greens

Tuesday
Dinner:  Chili and Corn Chowder

Wednesday
Dinner:  Curried Lentils

Thursday
Dinner:  Salad

Friday
Dinner:  Cauliflower Soup

Saturday
Dinner:  Curried Rice with Chicken

Money Overview

We are approaching the end of the year.  For the past couple of months, I watched my budget swirl down into a dark oblivion.  I'm afraid this month is no different. The crap of it is that I had a budget for the holidays.  I tore through that and then some.  After all is said and done, I'd say I overspent by a couple of hundred dollars.  Not bad, but I also overspent on eating out and even grocery shopping this month.   I haven't finished working the numbers yet, but it looks like I will not be putting anything into savings from today's paycheck.  I'm okay with it.  I was hoping to have $15K by the end of March, after transferring $5K into my IRA.  I'll be able to max out my IRA, but not sure if I'll be left with $15K.  I'm okay with that.  I'll have to be. 

B is going out today and I plan on crunching the numbers today in peace.  The damage may not be as bad I think it is, but either way I'm prepared for it and grateful that I am able to take this small bump in savings in stride.  After all, I still have $$ to pay all my bills and feed (stuff) myself and B.  All of my needs are taken care of and to be honest, quite a few of my wants.  I really shouldn't complain.

Menu Plan 11/11 -- 11/17

Sunday
Dinner:  Ribollita

Monday
Dinner:  Burrito Bowls

Tuesday
Dinner:  B's Day

Wednesday
Dinner:  Turkey sandwiches with jalapeno aioli and cole slaw

Thursday
Dinner:  B's Day

Friday
Dinner:  Baked chicken with stuffing

Saturday
Dinner:  B's Day

Menu Plan -- 11/04 -- 11/10

B has been cooking!! 

Sunday
Dinner:  Leftover Pasta

Monday
Dinner: Vegetable Fried Rice with potstickers

Tuesday
Dinner:  B's Day

Wednesday
Dinner:  Pasta Marinara

Thursday
Dinner: B's Day

Friday
Dinner: Turkey Chili with Cornbread

Saturday
Dinner: B's Day

Menu Plan 10/28 -- 11/03

B is on a cooking kick lately.  He has decided he will cook half the meals from no on.  We'll see how long this lasts for.  We're starting this week and tomorrow is his first day.  He has no idea what he's going to be making.  I hope he is able to utilize what's on sale and what's in the pantry.  Beggars shouldn't be choosers.

Sunday
Dinner:  Salad

Monday
Dinner:  Black Bean Burgers with chips and homemade pico de gallo

Tuesday
Dinner:  B's Day

Wednesday
Dinner:  Salad

Thursday
Dinner:  B's Day

Friday
Dinner:  Asparagus Risotto

Saturday
Dinner:  B's Day

Creamy Polenta

This is not a diet food.  That being said, it is absolutely delicious!

2 C water
2 C half and half or milk
1 1/2 C cornmeal
5 Tbsp butter
Salt and Pepper to taste

Bring water and half and half (or milk) to a boil.  Gradually whisk in cornmeal a little at a time.  The mixture will be thick, but should be able to stir.  If it is too thick, add a little bit more water or milk.  Bring heat to low and simmer for approximately 6 minutes.  Taste and if it is "crunchy" cook a little longer.  If it looks a little dry, add more liquid.  Take off of heat and stir in butter and cheese and season.  Serve immediately.

I've had a rough couple of weeks and a large bowl of this creamy polenta really hit the spot.  You can eat it just as is, or add a little browned sausage or roasted veggies. 

The Universe is Playing Tricks on Me

Remember how I said that I would not eat out in the month of October?  Remember how I posted a few times how I f'ed that up and we're starting fresh?  Well, let's scratch this altogether now.

This challenge was chosen for a month that was absolutely crazy.  My job is kicking my butt right now.  All I want to do is go home and eat large amounts of comfort food (NOT always made at home.  Yesterday's large pizza speaks for itself) and shop online.  Yes, shop.  As in, spend money. 

I have placed several items in my online shopping carts waiting for me to hit "checkout".  I've refrained from doing that for now, but I don't know how long I can keep that up.

I've said it a million times.  I save a large percentage of my paycheck every month.  I live on a tight budget on purpose.  For the past several months, I have NOT been hitting my monthly savings goal.  Some of  the reasons were purchases out of necessity, some were wants, and others were just  being reckless.  I still pay off my credit cards in full each month and I will still max out my IRA by the end of this year.

My liquid savings currently stands at a little over $16,000.  My IRAs total up to something like $22.6K.  I have to pay my registration to the tune of $200 next week.  I will get my carpets cleaned for which I have budgeted $200.  So even with all of that, I will still hopefully  just hit $18K by the end of this year.  I've already have put approximately $550 aside for holiday shopping, so that is taken care of.

I go these periods every now and then.  I'll save like crazy only to lose complete control and wonder how I was ever able to live on such a budget for so long.  I've decided just to live and put my ass in gear next month.  Of course, I've been saying this for months now, but I really mean it now.  I'll track my spending very closely in November and see how well I do.

Wish me luck!!

Menu Plan 10/21 - 10/27

Again, this menu is a compilation of a bunch of items that I did not make the previous week or two.  Hopefully, this will cut down on my grocery bill this week.

Sunday
Dinner: Baked Potatoes

Monday
Dinner:  Salad

Tuesday
Dinner:  Corn Cakes 

Wednesday
Dinner:  Rice and Gravy with Grilled Polenta Cakes

Thursday
Dinner: Veggie Potstickers with Steamed Rice


Friday
Dinner:  Creamy Polenta

Saturday
Dinner:  Veggie Chili with Cornbread

Menu Plan 10/14 -- 10/20

I did not cook a couple of items from the previous menu plan, so I just bumped them to this week.

Sunday
Dinner:  Corn Cakes

Monday
Dinner:  Pasta with Pink Sauce

Tuesday
Dinner: Black Bean Burgers

Wednesday
Dinner:  Salad

Thursday
Dinner:  Vegetable Thai Curry

Friday
Dinner:  Spinach Calzones

Saturday
Dinner:  Burrito Bowls

October Spending Update

Well, the no eating out idea is not going well.  From the first of the month to right now, we've eaten out a total of 6 times.  Starting Monday, October 15, we're starting fresh for the second part of the month. 

California Gas Prices

Gas prices in California are completely insane!!  I guess there is a shortage of gas in the state which is causing all the stations to buy gas at high prices which then pass on the increase to us.  Yesterday, my local gas station the price for regular unleaded was $4.65.  I'm afraid to look to see what it is today.   I'm ready to put less in my savings until gas prices start to decrease.  According to the news, it won't be happening in the immediate future and we'll see an consistent increase before a decrease.  Great, can't wait!

October Strike 1!

Last night I had food ready to prepare, but B suggested we split a burger and fries.  It was getting late and I was engrossed in my book so I relented.  We ended up spending a total of $12.26 for the both of us.  That puts us a little over our $5 per person budget.  I could beat myself up, but I won't.  We'll do better next time.

Menu Plan 10/07 --- 10/13

B is going to be a vegetarian again.

Sunday
Dinner:  Penne Pesto

Monday
Dinner:  Garden Chopped Salad

Tuesday
Dinner:  Corn Cakes with Ranch Dressing

Wednesday
Dinner:  Falafel

Thursday
Dinner: Veggie Potstickers with Vegetable Rice

Friday
Dinner:  Spinach Calzones

Saturday
Dinner:  Veggie Chili with Cornbread

Menu Plan 09/30 -- 10/06

It's been a while since I've posted one of these!

Sunday
Dinner:  Tacos

Monday
Dinner:  Spaghetti and Meatballs

Tuesday
Dinner:  Sausage and Rice

Wednesday
Dinner:  Curried Cabbage

Thursday
Dinner:  Thai Vegetable Curry with Rice

Friday
Dinner:  Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad

Saturday
Dinner:  Roast Chicken with Mashed Potatoes

October Spending Strike

In California the past couple of months, the temperatures were ridiculous.  I cannot remember it being so hot for so long.  Needless to say, cooking in a hot kitchen was not tempting.  We ate out.  We ate out a lot.  A. Lot. 

Now that the temperatures seem to have stabilized.  Well, at least yesterday we didn't have to turn the AC on for the first time since mid-August, I've imposed a eating out strike.  B and I have agreed (mostly me) that we will not eat out for the month of October.  Does that sound doable?  Sure.  Will it happen?  No.  That's why, I altered it.  We will not spend more than $5 on eating out on any given day.  The $5 will not rollover (nice try, B).  So if you HAVE to have that burger (B) or HAVE to have the slice of chocolate cake (me), it's fine as long as it is not more than $5.

So far, so good.  Four days in and we have not spent money on eating out.  I'll keep you guys posted.

Of course, this strike is to save a bit of money, but the gas prices in California are insane.  Gas went up 50 cents in two days.  I'm hoping that will start decreasing soon otherwise all the savings will be eaten up gassing up the cars!

Menu Plan 08/19 - 08/25

Sunday
Dinner:    Meatballs with Rice and Gravy (never made them)

Monday
Dinner:  Chicken Salad Sandwiches

Tuesday
Dinner:    Ground Turkey Tacos

Wednesday
Dinner:    Gyros

Thursday
Dinner:  Salad

Friday
Dinner:    Watermelon Feta Salad

Saturday
Dinner:  Naan Pizza

Menu Plan 08/12 -- 08/18

Sunday
Dinner:   Went out, it was too hot to cook!

Monday
Dinner:    Veggie Sandwiches on Onion Bagel

Tuesday
Dinner:    Salad

Wednesday
Dinner:   BBQ Chicken with Potato Salad

Thursday
Dinner:  Salad

Friday
Dinner:   Loco Moco

Saturday
Dinner:  Bangers and Mash

Menu Plan 07/29 - 08/4

Sunday
Dinner:  Ground Turkey Tacos

Monday
Dinner:  Caesar Salad

Tuesday
Dinner:  Turkey Burgers

Wednesday
Dinner:  Salad in a Pita


Thursday
Dinner:  Greek Salad


Friday
Dinner:  Pasta with Zucchini, Garlic, and Tomatoes


Saturday
Dinner:   Baked Chicken with Stuffing and Macaroni and Cheese  (B is going to cook this!).

Menu Plan -- 07/22 -- 07/28

Sunday
Dinner:  Watermelon Feta Salad

Monday
Dinner:  Rice and Beans

Tuesday
Dinner:  Turkey Gyros

Wednesday
Dinner:  Greek Salad

Thursday
Dinner:  Green Salad with Grilled Chicken

Friday
Dinner:  Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese

Saturday
Dinner:  Pasta Marinara Bake

Watermelon Feta Salad

My new obsession is the watermelon feta salad.  I've been seeing it on more and more menus lately.  I finally decided to give it a try at a local cafe and I loved it!!  Of course, I tried to duplicate it at home and although it is not exactly like the one served at the cafe, I could happily eat this several times a week!

All measurements are to taste.

Salad:
2 Cups of chopped fresh watermelon
1 small brick of feta cheese -- cubed
6 leaves of fresh mint -- chopped fine
Greens -- I used a mix of baby greens and arugula
1/4 C of pickled onions *

Vinaigrette:
3 Tablespoons of honey
2 Tablespoons of white wine vinegar (red wine vinegar would work too)
4 Tablespoons of olive oil

Combine all the ingredients until well mixed.


Pickled Onions:
About 1/4 of a large red onion, sliced very thin
Red or White wine vinegar
2 Tablespoon of sugar

Dissolve sugar in the vinegar.  Add sliced onions.  Onions should be mostly covered by the vinegar.  Add more if necessary.  Let sit in the fridge for about an hour.  Drain vinegar and add onions to salad.

Assemble the salad:
Mix the watermelon, feta, pickled onions, and mint in bowl.  Add greens and toss until combined.  Drizzle vinaigrette.  Enjoy!!

Weight Loss

I've posted before how my weight has been a lifelong struggle.  I wholeheartedly admit I have issues with food and my body.  Sadly, this may be something that will plague me the rest of my life. 

The good news is that a couple of months ago, my weight started to steadily decline.  In about one month, I lost about 12 pounds.  Now, one month later, I've more or less maintained that weight loss.  Yay!!  I still have major issues with food and I still have a long way to go, but I'm happy that my life is starting to get back on track.

This past month, I've been eating more salads and taking advantage of all the summer fruits and vegetables.  Breakfast during the week usually consists of some melon while dinner is usually a salad with a homemade dressing or vinaigrette.  Since I also serve last night's dinner leftovers for lunch the following day, I eat about 6 main dish salads a week.  Of course, this could be better, but it is a start. 

Like I said, I'm happy I've lost 12 pounds, but I still have a long way to go...

Long Time No Blog

Wow!  I can't believe it's been so long since I've blogged.  I was out of the country for a few weeks late last month and am still kind of getting into the swing of things. My posts on food, money, and me bitching about B will soon start up again. 

Creamy Bean Burritos

I have my standard easy way of making bean burritos.  It was good and tasty, but this is different!!  This also comes together quickly so it is perfect for those weekday meals.  I made them twice in a row and B has even eaten them for breakfast!

6 Burrito Size Tortillas
1 can refried beans (I used vegetarian refried black beans)
1 jalapeno -- seeded and minced
1 small onion -- chopped
1/2 bell pepper -- chopped
1/3 of a block of cream cheese
Salsa to taste

Sautee onions, jalapeno, and peppers until somewhat soft.  Add the refried beans and stir until the mixture comes together.  Add cream cheese and stir until it warms up and the cheese melts.  At times, I've added a tablespoon of water or so.  Add salsa.  Heat through.

Place 1/6 of the mixture in each warmed tortilla and wrap up.  Eat up!

I've also added some leftover rice and chicken and it is delicious!

Menu Plan 05/20 - 05/26

I'm still making soup every Friday and incorporating salad as a main dish twice a week.  Having said that, I still have not made the pureed vegetable soup!  I've had all the ingredients in my fridge for weeks and still no soup.  I was afraid the vegetables would start to go bad so I would throw them in the salads as we went and would then buy fresh vegetables only for the cycle to continue.

Sunday: 
Dinner:  Cauliflower Soup

Monday:
Dinner:  Vegetable Fried Rice

Tuesday:
Dinner:  Turkey Wraps

Wednesday:
Dinner:  Salad

Thursday:
Dinner:  Hummus and Vegetable Wrap

Friday:
Dinner:  Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Saturday:
Dinner:  Spaghetti and Meatballs

Menu Plan 05/14 - 05/19

Monday:
Dinner:  Chicken Curry with Naan and Rice

Tuesday:
Dinner:  Salad

Wednesday:
Dinner:  Black Bean Burritos

Thursday:
Dinner:  Hummus Pizza

Friday:
Dinner:  Cauliflower Soup  (Never made it last week)

Saturday:
Dinner:  Swedish Meatballs with Egg Noodles

Menu Plan 05/07 - 05/13

Monday:
Dinner:  Curried Cabbage with rice

Tuesday:
Dinner:  Bean and Pepper Burritos

Wednesday:
Dinner:  Salad

Thursday:
Dinner:  Chicken Tikka with Naan

Friday:
Dinner:  Pureed Vegetable Soup

Saturday:
Dinner:  Tandoori Chicken with Rice

Sunday:
Dinner:  Cauliflower Soup

Hurt Feelings

Not to jinx anything, but since our last major blow up in March, B and I have been doing really well.  I'm trying not to let the little things bother me and I think he's doing the same.

I have a temper.  It's pretty much under control now, but I know it is there and I know the power of hurtful words.  I try to keep both those hurtful words and my temper in check.  B doesn't seem to do the same.

 I am very sensitive about my weight.  He knows that.  I've gained and lost many many pounds over the years and my thoughts never seem to veer far from calories and fat grams.  Over the weekend, I made a batch of oatmeal raisin cookies.  B is in love with those cookies.  Last night, he was in the kitchen and I asked him to bring me a cookie.  He did, but jokingly said that he couldn't because he only "had a few left".  I knew he was joking and it made me feel good that he enjoyed the cookies so much.  Later in the evening, I got up to put dinner away.  As I headed toward the kitchen, he asked where I was going.  I jokingly said, "I'm going to go eat another one of your cookies".  He started talking about how if I keep that up I'll get to be "as big as a house" and how I've gained weight recently.  He even corrected himself and said "gained a lot of weight".  Um, huh????  In fact, I've dropped about 4 pounds in about a week.  I ate one cookie while he has polishes off up to half a dozen a day and to top it off, I was joking!! I had no intention of eating another frickin' cookie!!

I was hurt and without another word, I changed into my pajamas and went to bed.  I woke up today still very hurt over his words.  He has no idea what his words did to me. He has no idea the kind of effect they have on someone who obsesses about weight 24/7.

I was thinking about it this morning and I realized I'm not hurt that he said those words to me, I'm hurt that he said them in anger.  If he had sat me down and told me that he is notices that I've gained weight and wants to help me, I'd be grateful.  But the fact, that he threw those words at me because he thought I was going to eat one of his precious cookies was just horrible.

To top it off, I've lost weight in recent weeks.  The amount is not a lot, but the fact there has not bee any huge weight gain, but in fact a small weight loss, makes his words seem that much more shitty.

I want to talk to him about it, but in true B fashion I'm afraid he'll get defensive and start with the whole "I'll never mention it again" and all that BS.  With the exception of this hiccup, things have been really good with us and I'm not sure if I should just suck his comments up or if I should bring it up and risk ripples in my pond.

ETA:  I spoke to him about it.  He apologized and gave me a kiss.  This man NEVER apologizes.  HUGE step!!

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

I don't bake as often as I used to.  But lately, B has been into his favorite oatmeal raisin cookies.  In my effort to stop eating processed foods, I decided to bake a batch of his favorite cookies.  This is by no means healthy, but it is delicious.

2 C flour
1 C sugar
1 C brown sugar
2 Sticks butter -- softened
3 C oats
1 1/2 C raisins
2 tsp vanilla
1 tsp salt
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
2 eggs

Mix all the dry ingredients (not the oats or raisins) together in one bowl.  In another large bowl cream the butter with both sugars and vanilla.  Mix until smooth and creamy.  Add one egg at a time mixing between each egg.  Add the dry ingredients along with the butter mixture.  Mix until all incorporated.  Stir in oats and raisins and mix well.

Drop the cookie dough a couple tablespoons at at time on a greased cookie sheet.  Bake approximately 14 minutes (it took 19 minutes in my oven). 

New Obsession -- Burrata

A few weeks ago, I was watching an episode of Extra Virgin (love that show!).  Anyway, the couple were making a very decadent cheese for their Italian dinner guest.  Once this guest realized what kind of cheese they were making, it brought him to tears.  The cheese was burrata.  It is a solid mass of fresh mozzarella cheese that is stuffed with "shreds" of mozzarella and cream.  I was intrigued by this cheese.  I have been wanting to make fresh mozzarella cheese for some time now, but all of a sudden I wanted to do the more complex burrata!

Literally a few days after viewing that episode, I was in my friendly Trader Joe's store.  I saw the elusive burrata cheese there.  I wanted it.  I craved it.  But since I put myself on a strict grocery budget, I decided to plan for it.  The following week, it wasn't there.  Yesterday, I couldn't take it anymore and I traveled to three different Trader Joe's to find it.  I nearly trampled an old lady who got in my way of this cheese.  I bought it and refrained myself from eating it in the car.

This morning, I sliced three slices of olive bread.  I was going to spread it with hummus, but remembered the burrata.  I pulled a soft mozzarella ball out of the tub and sliced a small slice.  OMG.  Cream oozed from it.  I sprinkled it with a little salt and black pepper and spread the creamy cheese on my olive bread.  Delicious!!!

It is definitely luxurious and something I should not get in the habit of eating (see my previous post of losing a couple of pounds), but it is so awesome!!!

Menu Plan 04/30 - 05/05

I've dropped a couple of pounds.  It might be due to the fact we've been eating soup once or twice a week.  I've also incorporated a big salad as a meal twice a week as well.  I definitely have a long way to go, but I do see a little progress.  Baby steps, right?

Monday:
Dinner:  Black Bean Burgers

Tuesday:
Dinner:  Seasame Noodles

Wednesday:
Dinner:  Salad

Thursday:
Dinner:  Parmesan chicken

Friday:
Dinner: Pureed vegetable soup

Saturday:
Dinner:  Sheppard's Pie

Black Bean Brownies

I've heard of black bean brownies before, but was always a bit skeptical.  Would I be able to taste the black beans through the chocolate?  I made these a few weeks back and the answer to that question is nope! This is a super easy way to get your chocolate fix AND add get a serving or two of protein!

1 box of Brownie Mix (Duncan Hines, Betty Crocker, Pillsbury, ...)
1 14.5 oz. can of black beans

Drain, rinse black beans thoroughly.  Add beans back into the can and fill the can with water.  Puree black beans and water in a blender and blend until completely smooth.  Add to brownie mix only (do not add whatever the mix tells you to add.  Just use the dry mix).  Mix the brown mix and black bean puree until well combined.  Pour in a greased baking dish and bake according to package.  Your brownies are done once a toothpick comes out clean.

This brownie is a little denser and "fudgier", but still so good!

Menu Plan 04/22 - 04/28

My grocery budget is crazy since B has been tagging along while I shop. He throws anything in the cart and although he does look at the prices, he doesn't realize how quickly it adds up. I've started incorporating some of his stuff in my weekly budget. It's a little frustrating for him to throw a $7 package of cookies in the cart, while I've been staring at a particular cheese for weeks but refusing to buy it because it costs $6! If this keeps up, I'll have to increase my weekly budget.


 Sunday:  
Dinner: Enchiladas

 Monday:  
Dinner: Salad  

Tuesday:
 Dinner: Hummus Pizza  

Wednesday:  
Dinner: Bean Burritos (never made them last week)

Thursday:  
Dinner: Spaghetti and Meatballs

Friday:  
Dinner: Pureed vegetable soup (never made it last week)

Saturday:  
Dinner: Chicken Adobo (new recipe)

Menu Plan -- 04/16 - 04/22

Monday:
Dinner: Turkey Chili with cornbread

Tuesday:
Dinner: Creamy Bean Burritos (new recipe)

Wednesday:
Dinner: Salad

Thursday:
Dinner: Dirty Rice

Friday:
Dinner: Pureed Vegetable Soup

Saturday:
Dinner: Enchiladas

Sunday:
Dinner: Chicken Noodle Soup

Cauliflower Soup

I've made it clear I cannot stand cauliflower. I don't like the texture, the color, or the look of it. I never have. In my quest to eat more veggies, I decided to put aside my bias and give it another try. I realized as long as the soup is pureed, I didn't think twice about eating it. It is simply delicious!

1 Large head of cauliflower -- chopped
1 small onion -- diced
1 clove garlic -- minced
4 C water -- or the amount it takes to barely cover the cauliflower in the pot
1 tsp olive oil
2 green onions -- sliced
dash of crushed red pepper
salt and pepper to taste

In a large pot heat the olive oil and add the garlic and onions (not the green onions). Cook until onions are soft. Add chopped cauliflower. Cook for a couple of minutes. Add enough water to barely cover the cauliflower. I had some pieces still sticking out of the water. Add salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper. Bring to a boil. Then cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Simmer until the cauliflower is tender. Using an immersion blender blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings. Stir in sliced green onions. Serve!

There is a tiny amount of fat in the entire pot and it is so hearty and tasty! I have about a bowl or two left in the fridge. I'm going to eat some when I get home. At like 50 calories a bowl, it's a delicious snack!

Menu Plan 04/09 - 04/15

Monday:
Dinner: Penne with pesto

Tuesday:
Dinner: Salad

Wednesday:
Dinner: Curried lentils over rice

Thursday:
Dinner: BBQ turkey sausage over mashed potatoes

Friday:
Dinner: Cauliflower Soup*

Saturday:
Dinner: Chicken, Broccoli, and Noodle casserole

Sunday:
Dinner: Chicken Noodle Soup

*Anyone who knows me knows I hate cauliflower. I avoid it like no tomorrow. In my attempt to eat more veggies, I'm trying the cruciferous vegetable in soup form. Wish me luck.

Zucchini Soup

I need to incorporate more vegetables in my diet. Don't get me wrong, I eat them, but I realized I'm a somewhat picky veggie eater. I'm trying to take the veggies I like and cook them up in a new way. I love zucchini, but I normally saute it with a little olive oil and garlic. Simple and delicious, but it's been done many many times. This soup is easy has two kids of squash in it and is so healthy!! It's really filling as well.

Serves 6

5 medium sized zucchini -- chopped
1 small/medium onion -- chopped
12 oz package butternut squash -- if frozen, defrost; if raw, then steam until tender
1 clove of garlic -- minced
5 C of water or stock (I used 1 C of stock and 4 C of water)
1 C milk (I used nonfat)
Crushed red pepper -- to taste
Salt and Pepper -- to taste

Spray large pot with nonstick cooking spray or use a little oil. Saute onions until soft. Add zucchini, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Cook for a few minutes until zucchini softens a bit. Add stock/water and the cooked butternut squash. Salt and pepper to taste. Once the zucchini is soft, blend the entire mixture until smooth. Add milk and taste. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Enjoy!

Menu Plan -- 04/02 - 04/08

I'm a little behind posting my menu plans. This is what I made this past week:

Monday:
Dinner: Curried Cabbage with naan

Tuesday:
Dinner: Salad

Wednesday:
Dinner: Gyros

Thursday:
Dinner: B went out, so I just ate some buttered noodles

Friday:
Dinner: Zucchini Soup

Saturday:
Dinner: Roast chicken with mashed potatoes and leftover zucchini soup

Sunday:
Dinner: Bean and cheese pupusas*

*It was my first time making pupusas. I got the flavor down, but the method of stuffing the filling in the masa needs work.

"Secret" to Grocery Shopping

There is none, but B seems to think so. B has started to come grocery shopping with me. I don't mind, but he always buys more than on the list. Whatever. We always play a game at checkout. I have made the list and priced the items. When we get the total at checkout, we see how close I was to the predicted amount. Not rocket science since I know the prices of most products. I am almost always within a dollar or so of the total. B has always been impressed.

The other day he said he figured out my "secret". What secret? He feels because I have the same recipes in rotation, the amount will always be the same since I'm used to buying the ingredients, therefore, I'll always "win" at the checkout. Huh??? He doesn't see the days I spend scouring my recipe books, and sale ads, and comparing that with what I already have in my freezer/pantry. On top of all that, I make foods B likes (he's extremely picky), easy to prepare, transport well, and reheat well the following day, AND stick to the $50 a week budget. It is so much more than making a list of stuff we want to eat and buying it.

I kind of got miffed, but since I'm trying to be more positive and yadda yadda yadda, I suggested he give me a menu and I'll try to buy the stuff for it under $50. He agreed. Of course, he is not the master of following things through and most likely will not do it.

Menu Plan -- 03/26 - 03/31

Monday:
Dinner: Salad

Tuesday:
Dinner: Hummus Pizza

Wednesday:
Dinner: Turkey Sandwiches

Thursday:
Dinner: B said he will make Chili

Friday:
Dinner: Spaghetti and Meatballs

Saturday:
Dinner: Spanish Chicken and Rice

Best Advice

The best piece of advice I can give anyone is: Check yourself before you wreck yourself.

It applies to EVERYTHING! Think about it, you can apply it to relationships, diet, money, ANYTHING.

Menu Plan 03/19 - 03/24

Well, B got sick off a Subway sandwich. He didn't actually get sick, but felt utterly crappy for a couple of days. He has now sworn off fast food. I don't think this will last in the long run, but I'm glad that we won't be eating out as much anymore.

Monday:
Dinner: Bean Taquitos with a salad

Tuesday:
Dinner: Burgers with potato salad

Wednesday:
Dinner: Chicken Salad Sandwiches

Thursday:
Dinner: Salad with homemade ranch dressing

Friday:
Dinner: Date night!

Saturday:
Dinner: Homemade pupusas (with sandwiches as a back up)

Better

Things are getting better on the home front.

I'll start posting my weekly menu plans again, but I feel like I've hit another rut. I'm researching new recipes which I will be trying out in the very near future. I'll post them as I make them!

Change

I am a "people pleaser" by nature. I need for everyone to be happy and to get along. In order for this to happen, I often apologize for things I haven't done just to stop the arguing. I often take blame for things I have no part in. Does everyone end up happy? Nope. Who is the most miserable? Yup, myself.

I've realized in the hopes of no drama, I've enabled a lot of people. Some people have gotten in the habit of saying they wanted with complete disregard to feelings because in the end I'll be the one apologizing. I've swallowed a lot of hateful hurtful words over the years. On the rare occasion, I decide to "fight back", then I'm told my "real colors are showing". Why is it okay for someone to be so negative towards me on occasion and the rare event when I speak up (often times true), I'm the one that has gone too far?

This was my scenario this morning. I left the house telling B to drive carefully and that I love him. I do and even in anger, I recognize that I do. He wanted no part of it and shooed me away without a second glance. I am in the right. I caught him in a lie and he won't admit to it. Instead he tries to manipulate me into making me think that I'm nosy and it is none of my business. He doesn't get the bigger picture. Even with all of that has happened between us and even though I know where I stand, I cannot help but want to reach out to him and tell him I'm sorry.

It's been about 4 hours and I will not cave.

A Little Note

Dear B,

Please do not tell me what I do and what I don't do. This is especially when all I see you do is sit on the couch, browse the Internet, and nap. The next time you want the third towel in a stack of six, please neatly take the towel you want and not rumple the others. When I politely ask you arrange them in a neat stack again, please do so knowing that they were all nice and even before you decided to rumple them. Please do not have attitude with me because of your laziness and the fact that I called you out on it. It does not matter if my sock drawer is a mess, I like my towels stacked neatly. After all, I am the one that regularly washes them and puts them away.

Cordially,
IrkedGirlfriend

Ranch Dressing

In my attempt to start eliminating processed foods from my diet, I made ranch dressing the other day. I will never buy ranch dressing again. I got home from work at 6:15 and by 6:20 it was finished!

3/4 C sour cream (I used light)
3/4 C mayonnaise (light, as well)
1 Tbsp olive oil
2 tsp lemon juice
1 clove of garlic -- minced
a bunch of chives -- chopped
2/3-1 C buttermilk (I used slightly less than 1 cup)
Salt and Pepper to taste

Dump everything in the blender except the buttermilk. Blend until smooth and stream in buttermilk until it has reached your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings. Unlike the store bought dressing this is slightly green, but tastes great!

Menu Plan 02/20 - 02/15

Monday:
Dinner: Aloo Matar with naan and rice

Tuesday:
Dinner: Chinese Chicken and Rice

Wednesday:
Dinner: Chole or Channa Masala

Thursday:
Dinner: Hummus Pizza

Friday:
Dinner: Salad with homemade ranch dressing

Saturday:
Dinner: Baked chicken with roasted brussel sprouts

Menu Plan 02/13 - 02/18

I need more options!!

Monday:
Dinner: Curried spinach and potatoes with naan

Tuesday:
Dinner: Vegetable fried rice with chicken potstickers

Wednesday:
Dinner: Hummus Pizza

Thursday:
Dinner: Meatloaf with mashed potatoes

Friday:
Dinner: B will be going out, so I'll probably eat "chick food".

Saturday:
Dinner: Baked Pasta

Menu Plan 02/05 -02/11

We're starting to eat out a lot again. I've just got to buckle down again...

Sunday:
Dinner: Buffalo chicken sandwiches

Monday:
Dinner: Flautas and rice

Tuesday:
Dinner: Curried Cabbage with naan

Wednesday:
Dinner: Black Bean Patties with arugula and tomato salad

Thursday:
Dinner: Turkey and Arugula sandwiches

Friday:
Dinner: Spinach and turkey sausage calzones

Saturday:
Dinner: Pasta bolognese.

Menu Plan 01/30 - 02/04

Monday:
Dinner: Chicken and Rice

Tuesday:
Dinner: Black Bean Patties

Wednesday:
Dinner: Bean and Cheese Burritos

Thursday:
Dinner: Kale and Potato Casserole

Friday:
Dinner: Angel Hair with Tomatoes, Garlic, and Goat Cheese

Saturday:
Dinner: Chicken Sausage

Meal Plan 01/23 - 01/28

Monday:
Dinner: Chicken Tikka with rice and Naan

Tuesday:
Dinner: Hummus Pizza

Wednesday:
Dinner: Vegetable Fried Rice

Thursday:
Dinner: Ecuadorian Bean Stew

Friday:
Dinner: Gyros

Saturday:
Dinner: Baked Pasta with Homemade Rolls

Wow

Today B realized that our grocery budget was $50 a week. He knew the number, but I guess he just realized that that equaled to $200 a month. He finds that number to be insanely high for two people. I think it's a little on the frugal side. Of course, that is only on grocery items, not including toiletries and other paper goods.

He then thought it was too high because I don't make "tradition foods". Um, what??? I do make a few Indian dishes, but the ingredients are found in the regular grocery store. On the other hand, I don't cook too much meat. The only meat I buy is chicken, ground turkey, and the occasional ground beef.

It's not a big thing, I just found it slightly amusing that B had absolutely no idea how much a month I spent at the grocery store.

Dork

I am a number cruncher. I always have a calculator out and am always crunching numbers, whether it be for the weekly grocery budget or how much I will put in my savings for the year. This weekend, my main calculator died out of nowhere. Then I pulled the one from my purse and that was dead too. I have a spare, so I got that out. Yup, a goner.

Although, I had no immediate need for a calculator and definitely can access one off my phone, I felt incomplete. I went out the nearest drugstore and bought three. I feel so much better! I bought a desk calculator and two pocket ones. Even B said I'll be having fun with the larger one. He's right!

Granola

I was never used to eating breakfast. Until very recently, the thought of food in the morning made me a little nauseous. I could stomach coffee or a little juice, but that is it. It's all changed now. Out of the blue, I've turned into a breakfast person. I do eat light in the mornings most days, but I do have to have something in my stomach now.

Anyway, the other day I decided I would make granola. I can eat yogurt in the morning and the thought of having granola on it made my mouth water. B liked the idea as well. This weekend, I bought all the ingredients for granola and baked up a batch. It's delicious.

Anyway, the recipe is very easy and you can add whatever nuts and dried fruit you'd like.

4 C of oats
3/4 C brown sugar
1/4 C water
1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp vanilla
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 C almonds -- coarsely chopped
1/2 C pecans -- coarsely chopped
1 1/2 C dried fruit (I used raisins, cherries, blueberries, and cranberries)

Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Mix all the oats and nuts together in a large bowl. In a smaller bowl, mix together brown sugar, water, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Microwave until all the sugar has dissolved. Mix well. Add sugar mixture to bowl of oats and nuts and toss until very well combined.

Pour mixture into a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread out in a thin even layer. You may need to use two baking sheets. Bake for 40 minutes. Halfway into baking, take out and stir around so the nuts do not burn.

Once the oats and nuts are golden brown a little crispy, take out of oven and let it cool completely. Once cool, add dried fruit and toss until well combined. Stir in an airtight container or resealable bags.

Fresher Cooking

I am going to start entering the bold somewhat new world of trying to make all my food from scratch. I don't use too many processed foods now, but I will try to cut just about everything from breads to cereals. I know, I most likely won't be able to cut out everything, but I'm willing to give it a try.

This is kind of exciting. This will give me a reason to invest in a stand mixer. I've wanted one for years, but totally lack the counter space in my small Los Angeles kitchen.

Menu Plan 01/16 - 01/21

My goal is to try new recipes and try to reignite my love of cooking. I don't hate it now, but I sometimes feel is has become a chore. I think once I start new dishes that will change. This meal plan is, of course, filled with old recipes.

Monday:
Dinner: Rigatoni with meat sauce

Tuesday:
Dinner: Vada Sambar

Wednesday:
Dinner: Fried Rice

Thursday:
Dinner: Turkey Sandwiches

Friday:
Dinner: Roast Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy

Saturday:
Dinner: Chicken Enchiladas

Menu Plan 01/09 - 01/14

With the holiday season over, I feel like I can finally get on with my "normal" life. I am a girl who likes a routine and although it may be fun to veer from it, it always feels best when I go back to a somewhat organized lifestyle.

Monday:
Dinner: Bean and Cheese Burritos

Tuesday:
Dinner: Utthapum (savory pancake)

Wednesday:
Dinner: Black Beans and Rice

Thursday:
Dinner: Tortilla Soup

Friday:
Dinner: Parmesan Chicken

Saturday:
Dinner: Spanikopita

False Alarm

Well, I went home last night ready to buy a new microwave. When I got home, I noticed the clock on the microwave was blinking. Once I set it, the microwave worked again. I guess, you cannot start the microwave without setting the clock first. B felt pretty silly :) In any case, I'm happy that I don't have to dish out $150 for a new microwave this month. I'll just budget it in for February!

Looking at the Positive

Happy New Year!!!

This year I'm going to have a more positive outlook on life. Let me start now: B has a birthday this week, so I already knew I'd be spending money on dinner and a gift. I was ready for that. Today, I was informed my microwave oven of 25 years (yes, 25 years)died. Of course, it lived a very long life and it was time to "retire" it. So, although I'll be shelling out approximately $150 in a month that was already spendy and I'm trying to make up for the ridiculous December month I had, I am grateful I HAVE the money to buy a new microwave. Yes, even if I do have to pay less into savings this month, I still have the dinero to buy an appliance that will heat my spaghetti and meatballs in record time! :)