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Last summer was the first summer we really spent full days at the beach. We packed snacks, drinks, and lunch but dinner was usually eaten at home. Just like during the school year, I found that planning ahead for our dinners made our beach days much less stressful. This recipe, from Real Simple, is a perfect meal to put in your slow cooker in the morning before you leave for the day in the sun.

Father's Day is coming in less than a week and you want to give him something special. But, really, the usual options are just not so inspiring. Does anyone wear ties anymore? Power tools? A beer mug? Instead of giving him something from the big box stores, or to add something extra special, try one of our creative uses of Lunchbox Love. After all, what dad wouldn't love to hear words of love from his kids?

Summertime in our house means the oven gets a vacation. Of course, we can't order in every night so the grill becomes our cooking tool of choice. Pizza is one of my family's favorite things to eat and this grilled version lets each person create their own edible masterpiece. The key is to make sure you have all of your toppings ready to go because, once you get going, the pizza cooks fast.

Grilled Pizza

(recipe and photo courtesy of The Kitchn)

Summer is here in full force and the last thing we really want to do is turn on the oven. Dinner needs to be light but satisfying and this recipe really fits the bill. Judi made this for Mother's Day last year and there was leftover sauce that she used for a vege dip during the week. I would highly recommend doubling the satay recipe--it's that good!

All American Barbecue Chicken

This sauce is a perfect combination of sweet and tangy--it's so good that I often triple the recipe when I make it so that I have plenty on hand for an impromptu midweek meal during the summer. Be sure to use a ketchup made with sugar, not high fructose corn syrup.

(image and recipe courtesy of Key Ingredient)

When people hear the word 'risotto' they often imagine standing at the stove for hours, stirring the pot. It's actually a lot easier than you think and the result is a delicious and comforting dinner. This recipe, from the New York Times, is perfect for Spring, using in-season, fresh  asparagus but can easily be changed to use a different vegetable.

In my book, every good brunch starts with a mimosa--a bit of healthy OJ combined with fun & bubbly champagne. You can mix it up and change the juices (blood orange, grapefruit, etc), but this recipe from Spirited Entertaining is a classic.

Traditional Mimosa

White Chicken Enchiladas

Tomorrow is Cinco de Mayo and we love celebrating with our own Mexican feast of chicken enchiladas. You can find a lot of enchilada recipes out there and you can probably even find some that are a little easier. However, you will not find one that is more delicious than this recipe from The Pioneer Woman. Taking the time to make your own cheesy sauce will have you and your guests reaching for seconds.

Although my kids are pretty picky when it comes to certain things, they both like bold flavors and different spices. Indian food is a popular choice in my house and cooking this Curried Chicken with the veges makes it an easy & delicious Sunday supper. 

Curried-Chicken and Vegetable Pan Roast

(recipe and photo from FoodAndWine.com)

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