What shall I cook for dinner?

Honey, what’s for dinner?

My friend Ms S is on her best way to set up her own homestead in a city. Over the years, she’s been exploring new ways to become self-sufficient, even having chicken in her backyard at some stage. During the lockdown, she made some amazing cakes and sweets. Little Martha Steward, you know. Yet, I was surprised when she confessed the other day: “I’ve no idea what to cook for dinner anymore!”

The struggle is real

It’s not the first time I’ve heard this comment. While restaurants are open and delivery services are a time-saver for many, there’s also a financial element. With many organisations having introduced temporary salary reductions, not everyone wants to spend the money and eat out. Being able to cook and to cook some tasty meals has become a fundamental skill this year.

What’s your go to recipe?

Now, if you are like me, you’ll have some go to recipes. A creation of an Asian stir fry with aubergine, courgette or marrows, corn, carrots and whatever other vegetables I could find is probably mine. Since lockdown, I’ve moved to my version of a frittata. Throw in some potatoes, tomatoes, cheese and mix it all together with cheese. Add some chillies to spice it up.

Start a recipe exchange with your friends

As much as we like these recipes, we need something, something different. Ask them what they are cooking for dinner. Most of us are tired of those chain emails inviting your friends to participate. Yet, by asking your friends, you’re more likely to get a yummy recipe. Sure, there may be the occasion “Oh, I don’t know what to cook either” reply. Still, I bet you asking 5 friends, you’ll get 4 recipes. If you get these 4 new recipes that you know are tried and tested, would you give them a go and cook them yourself?

Try something new for dinner

Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

Budget Bytes is a website for those controlling their food expenses. While the costs are listed for the US, it gives you a general idea how much the recipe would cost. Their Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is a delicious and easy to make dish that will keep you filled and wanting more.

Dinner

https://www.budgetbytes.com/cajun-sausage-and-rice-skillet/

Tourlon Tourlon

Want to bring back your Mediterranean summer holidays? Yes, those days that seem light years away? Try this dish from The Greek Vegan. Kiki throws mixed fresh vegetables into her pan, making the slicing and cutting the longest part of your actual work.

http://thegreekvegan.com/tourlou-tourlou-briam/

Kadai Paneer

Curry nights are a standing dinner option in a lot of homes. This one is full of flavour and you can make it quite creamy, too. If you can’t make all of it from scratch, grab the store bought kadai masala powder. Dig in with some naan bread or paratha.

https://www.indianhealthyrecipes.com/kadai-paneer-gravy-recipe/

https://www.indianhealthyrecipes.com/kadai-paneer-gravy-recipe/

Spaghetti Salad

Looking to combine spaghetti with something healthy? Give this spaghetti salad a go. It’s a quick dish, perfect for dinner after a long day. The different colours make it so appealing and you’ll eat it with your heart and eyes.

Spaghetti salad dinner

https://theviewfromgreatisland.com/spaghetti-salad-recipe/

Muhammara Dip

During lockdown, the Minimalist Baker’s Muhammara Dip was one of the favourite TV snacks. First time, I’ve added a little bit, well a lot more, chili flakes, thinking the suggested amount was way too small. You may want to try and experiment yourself. Grab some crackers or some fresh baguette and enjoy!

Yummy

https://minimalistbaker.com/easy-muhammara-dip/

Chocolate Souffle

On one webinar, we were talking about souffles (you can clearly deviate from the business agenda on Zoom too) and my colleague suggested this super light souffle. Her 12-year-old son had previously made it and it bestowed me with the confidence to try – and succeed – with this souffle.

A final word, we’ve no affiliations with these websites, I just like their recipes. If you like good food, too, tell me: Which one of these recipes are you going to try this week? Share your pictures with us.

Until next time,
Agni

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