I cook a lot. I enjoy it (usually), and I know I will eat better, healthier and less expensive (often) by cooking at home. But it is not always easy, and I will admit, there are times when I am not motivated. (Too busy! Tired! Don’t feel like it!) But by preparing two meals at once, it is easy to cook for today, and tomorrow, all at the same time. The best part? You’re not stuck with leftovers.
Last week my mom broke her leg, and is not moving around too easily. So, I went to their house last night and cooked dinner. I also prepared dinner for tonight at the same time. It is easy, time-saving and efficient. Last night I made flounder topped with a mixed nut and butter sauce, with salad, broccoli and asparagus. While I was cooking, I prepped some yellowtail snapper to go in the oven. It is in a pan, seasoned, and ready for a squeeze of lemon and 15 minutes in the oven. Leftover vegetables are in a pan ready to heat. The entire dinner will take 16 minutes – one minute to put the finishing touches on, and 15 minutes to cook. Done.
Later this week, I plan on making chicken for dinner, likely sautéed with lemon, garlic and white wine. While I am cooking, and we are eating, I will get a pot roast in the oven for the next day. Easy enough. Vegetables and side dishes will be done at the same time.
This whole concept of two meals/one prep session is appealing on a number of levels. I know there are plenty of experts that will tell you to make a shopping list and plan out your meals for the week. I am here to tell you, that is a charming concept, but often life gets in the way (impromptu dinner with friends, working late, random other life happenings) and then you are stuck with groceries for meals that have gone uncooked. That is simply a waste.
I cannot believe it has taken me this long to figure out, but I can assure you, this is something that will be put into action immediately. Plus, if you do go with the experts and plan your meals for the week, it is easy enough to plan two that can be prepared at the same time. Sometimes my genius strikes at odd moments, and this is one of them. Looking forward to many nights of dining at home with very little preparation that day. Have you tried to do something similar? I’d love to hear about it.
