No-Recipe Meal Ideas

Andy and I have added several dishes to our repertoire over the past couple years that really don't require a recipe, but are worth noting here since we make them so much. They are great ideas when planning the week's menu!

• Grilling: Andy is the grill-master, and I am always in charge of sides. Now that the weather is warmer again, we love to grill several times a week if we can. Rub steak or chicken (or the preferred meat) with a spice mix; we use a South African spice rub but you can use your favorite mix or make up your own. We love a variety of veggies on the side - corn on the cob, asparagus (sauteed in olive oil with Emeril's essence, oregano, salt and pepper), or green beans with thyme and almonds, maple-dill carrots, or brussel sprouts. We usually always have either steamed rice, cous cous, or risotto as well.
• Pita Pizzas: We got this idea from the restaurant, Lazeza, where I used to waitress and which we frequent for its incredible Middle Eastern fare and our good friends who own it. Their version is fancier, but at home we just take a piece of pita, top with pizza or tomato sauce, mozzarella and feta cheese, oregano and basil, and bake at about 350 for around 7-10 minutes.
• Tostadas: Lately we've been making tostadas, and they are yummy! Just brush corn tortillas (enough for each tostada to have 2 tortillas) with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and bake (turning once) at 450 for a few minutes, until crispy. Then layer with beans, your choice of meat, lettuce, sour cream, cheese, tomatoes, etc.

(I don't know if this is the Tostada's most flattering angle, but the baby in the back sure is cute!)