The Proof Is in the Pudding

See? We still eat. A friend of mine recommended I buy Everyday Food's cookbook Great Food Fast. This has proven invaluable for the past few weeks with all the errands, sickness, and struggling to survive in general. Apparently, my cold was actually bronchitis and is still lingering, but it should clear up soon. I hope. Most of the recipes in this book can be prepped in under 30 minutes. I typically have the food prepped in under the prep time stated, which makes this book a definete winner to me. The recipes are simple, fast and require few ingredients which are easy to find at any supermarket. For whatever reason, I am not too fond of most Martha Stewart recipes I have seen, but this seems to be a winner.

Above is the Pork Tenderloin with Mustard Sauce. This came together quickly, required little attendance while cooking. This ended up being very moist and full of flavor. I'm typically not a fan of pork, however, I am quite fond of these little tenderloins. The mustard sauce was great as well, however, next time I think I would cut the recipe in half because I had quite a bit leftover.

This was served as suggested with a Mixed Green salad with Citrus Dressing. The dressing was very light tasting and just perfect. Over all a perfect meal when you want something not too heavy.



For dessert, I threw these together. I had bought some little tart shells at the grocery store, not knowing what would happen to them. I guess you could call these Coconut-Ginger Lime Macadamia Tarts. I had some french vanilla pudding, so I just whipped that up simply. If I had more time and milk, I probably would've made a pastry cream, however, this did well in a pinch. Mixed in a bit of toasted coconut and lime zest. Put some chopped candied ginger in the bottom of the tarts. Topped with the pudding mixture then some toasted macadamias, additional zest and a sliver of candied ginger. All together, these flavors worked perfect with little fuss. I should probably keep these tart shells on hand more often.

Do we even eat anymore?

I apologize for my extended absense. No, I am not starving my family. I have just been preoccupied, see my reason below. I've been up to my ears in insurance papers, talking on the phone, trying to buy a new car, etc. while still battling a cold. I am pleased to say we have found another car and things with the insurance are about to come to a close. This has turned into a blessing in disguise since we really needed a larger car with two children. Thankfully, things are now settling down and I have had time to actually be in the kitchen and cook more than quesadillas and salads. Pictures and recipes to come in time...