Monday Meal Plan — October 20, 2013: Weekly Recipes & Grocery List

It’s a short school week because of parent/teacher conferences, and after accomplishing zero house projects over the weekend, I’m hoping the extra day and a half at home will finally let me chip away at the never-ending to-do list. Fingers crossed!

Here’s what we’ll be eating this week:

Black Bean Tostadas | Melanie Makes

Meatless Monday: Black Bean Tostadas with Corn Relish. The forecasted high for today is around 60 degrees, so I’m treating this bright, summery recipe as a farewell to warmer weather—especially since the forecast hinted at a snowflake later in the week. I’ve made Monday our meatless night because it’s easier on the grocery budget and a small way to eat more sustainably. My husband, who prefers meat and potatoes, usually goes along with it—partly because I tempt him with a special dessert alongside his meatless dinner. It’s a negotiating tactic that works.

Tuesday: Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps. This is a new recipe I’m trying this week, and I’m already excited. Buffalo chicken with a lighter twist, prepared in the slow cooker—flavorful and simple. It’s a great weeknight option when you want bold flavors without a lot of fuss.

Wednesday: Three-Cheese Skillet Lasagna. This one-pan dish is perfect for my carb-loving kids and for nights when I want something cozy but straightforward. It comes together quickly, heats through nicely, and is almost always eaten up right away—rarely any leftovers.

Thai Chicken and Coconut Soup | @melaniebauer at Melanie Makes

Thursday: Thai Chicken and Coconut Soup. A comforting, aromatic soup that changes up the usual slow-cooker routine. It’s warm, bright, and a lovely way to bring some Southeast Asian flavors to the week—especially welcome on chillier evenings.

Perfect Pizza Crust | @melaniebauer at Melanie Makes

Friday: Pizza. Friday pizza night is a classic. We use our go-to Perfect Pizza Crust for a reliable, delicious base. Even if pizza doesn’t make it onto the table Friday night, I like keeping the dough and toppings on hand for an easy, customizable meal any night of the week.

Weekly plan recap:

  • Monday — Black Bean Tostadas with Corn Relish (meatless)
  • Tuesday — Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps
  • Wednesday — Three-Cheese Skillet Lasagna
  • Thursday — Thai Chicken and Coconut Soup
  • Friday — Pizza with Perfect Pizza Crust

If you’re looking for more meal inspiration, I keep a collection of past menu plans and recipes to help when you need ideas or want to build a weekly menu that’s easy to shop for and simple to prepare.

Happy cooking—and here’s hoping the extra time at home helps me finally tackle a few of those house projects!