With the exception of the burger, this week’s dinner menu ideas are one-pot meals that don’t really need a side dish.
In fact, many of them have a so-called “built-in” side dish such as carrots and dumplings, and various vegetables such as potatoes and green beans.
The beauty of one-pan dishes is less clean-up. You may need to cook different parts of the dish at different times because, say the chicken in the lemon chicken skillet requires more time than the potatoes and green beans.
I’d say the two recipes that require a side are the burger and the short ribs. The potato salad would be a perfect side for the burger and I usually serve mashed potatoes with the short ribs making it a pure comfort food meal.
Many of this week’s recipes use lots of fresh ingredients. That’s another key to menu planning. Using up fresh veggies you may have bought because they were on sale. Don’t let them go to waste.
Plus, fresh vegetables should always be a part of a delicious weekly meal plan.
For those that love gourmet coffee drinks you’ll love the birthday cake latte. Be sure to take a look. It will save you money in the long run.
Don’t forget to mix and match these easy dinner menu ideas with the previous week’s ideas. Find past posts here:
Easy Dinner Menu Ideas - Week 5
Chicken Fricasse is pure comfort food that's perfect for a chilly evening.
Wine braised short ribs are mouth-watering good. Use a bottle of wine you would enjoy drinking in this recipe.
This Jalapeno Cheddar Stuffed Burger was amazing! The jalapeno cheddar filling inside was spicy and cheesy and totally delicious.
This lemon chicken skillet recipe uses many ingredients found in your CSA box or at your local farmer’s market. It’s an easy recipe for any night that’s full of flavor.
Take pizza night to a whole new level with this braided pepperoni pizza bread. Serve with a salad to complete the meal.
Loaded Baked Potato Salad will be your new favorite potato salad recipe. It’s creamy, loaded with flavor, and completely irresistible.
A great crumb cake to enjoy with your morning coffee, it's made with whole wheat. The recipe makes 2 cakes, one to keep, one to share.
Many friends I know switch from hot coffee to iced coffee drinks in the warm summer months. This iced birthday cake latte brings the coffee shop home.
Irish Apple Cake is more quick bread than a cake, but it’s irresistible nonetheless. The apples floating in the slightly sweet cake are perfectly fall and perfectly comforting.
The childhood classic whoopie pie made from scratch. Perfect for Pi Day!