Fresh finds

 There's something magical about fresh foods; something extra tasty about home and locally grown goods. One of my absolute favorite parts of Oregon summers are the amazing farmer's markets, berry/fruit farms near by, and the humble pots of tomato & basil plants behind our white & rugged picket fence. This week's market find was a gluten free lemon pepper fusilli dried pasta. The two women selling certainly won me over with their sweet southern accents. We paired the flavored pasta with a simple blend of our home grown tomatoes and basil along with what seems to be our favorite ingredient of turkey bacon & voila! A delicious, fresh meal! 

We are looking forward to trying a new flavored pasta next week. 

(After frying the bacon, we used the same pan with extra virgin olive oil & garlic sauteed with the tomatoes)... try it!

 Clam shell pasta bowl c/o Beyond Jordan Studio.

You can find this pasta & more at Pappardelle's Pasta.

Trying something new

This month, we are trying something new for meal planning. Actually, I've really never done meal planning. This is a first! 12 days in, and we're doing pretty well at sticking to it. In order to eat out less, eat healthier (trying GF for the past 2 months- I feel so much better), and waste less money on un-eaten foods, we're giving it a go. 

The first step was printing off a calender and entering both of our schedules. It took me a while to realistically plan the placement of meals throughout the week due to the fact that our schedule is different each day. I also hoped that by creating a schedule and keeping it up on the fridge, Andrew could look ahead and see that a certain night was left-over night and help himself (I call him my little garbage disposal, he'll eat just about anything).  Not only are we trying new things, but it also makes grocery shopping a lot easier and more efficient!

This was a favorite meal from last week. And, gluten free!

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Brown Rice Pene Pasta

Pesto

Cottage cheese

Tomatoes

Roasted brussels sprouts 

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Dishes by Beyond Jordan Studio

http://beyondjordan.com/

 -Cook pasta per package instructions

-Roast halved brussels sprouts at 425 degrees for 18-20 minutes (seasoned with olive oil + garlic salt)

-Combine pasta, roasted brussels, sliced tomatoes, pesto, & cottage cheese

-Enjoy! 

((Add turkey bacon for some extra protein))