What's for Dinner this Week? 01.26.15

Ashley's book report from a couple of weeks ago has caused the travel bug to bite. Since I sometimes feel having a theme for the week can help me come up with interesting new recipes to try, I've focused on recipes from around the world this week. Their variation in flavors should keep any picky palates well satisfied.

Monday: Grilled Bread with Avocado and Bruschetta

We have the perfect crusty bread to pair with some classic mediterranean toppings for dinner.

Tuesday: Slow Cooker Chicken Fajita Soup by The Recipe Critic

I love the spicy flavors south of the border. This delicious up is the perfect way to warm up in the winter.

Wednesday: Chicken Paella - Recipe coming to the blog soon!
One of my favorite recipes, native to Spain, is as full of color as it is flavor.

Thursday: Spicy Vietnamese Noodle Soup by I am a Food Blog
You can't live in Seattle without knowing what Pho is (and how to say it.) My husband is a big fan so I'm going to give it a try myself this week.

Friday: Orecchiette Bolognese by Tasty Kitchen
Italian is some of my favorite cuisine. Classic bolognese is something even my kids love!

Saturday: Japanese Steakhouse Salad by Spicy Southern Kitchen

I'll add some strip steak to this salad dressing to make the perfect light meal before Sunday's big game.

An Easier Way to Chop Herbs

I learned this easy technique for chopping herbs years ago from a family friend. Simply toss your herbs in a mug, then hold your kitchen scissors straight down into the mug, and snip until the herbs are the size you want. Voila! Finely chopped flecks of flavor in no time.

I love this, especially for dinner party prep. Here's why: herbs are usually the finishing touch on a dish, the very last thing you add before serving. When you chop them this way, you can snip your parsley/cilantro/mint/basil/tarragon well in advance and keep the mug in the fridge, eliminating both the last minute stress of preparing a garnish and one more dirty cutting board.