Memorial Day Eats

How I wish I could tell you that I spent the long weekend sleeping under the stars or laying on a beach. Instead I stayed at home nursing two sick kiddos back to health. We hunkered down watching movies, reading books and playing Legos. Neither of them had much of an appetite so other than making pasta on Saturday night, I did little no cooking. In between snuggles, I decided to tackle my house and do a long overdue deep cleaning. In two days of sorting and purging, I managed to throw out 9 bags of trash, 2 bags of recycling and I can’t even tell you how many boxes and bags of stuff I have to donate. Now as I walk from room to room and see uncluttered spaces, I feel a sense of peace and calm. (I can’t believe I waited this long…) I’m actually glad we stayed home and I got the opportunity to clean things out. I feel accomplished and my house seems so much more relaxed. To celebrate, I’m taking the rest of today off and hoping to sneak in a hike. My plan is to fire up the grill tonight and cook a nice dinner that we can enjoy outdoors. Hope wherever you are, the weather is nice and you’re getting to enjoy the day off! Here are some of my favorite summertime eats. The only problem will be deciding what to make!

Teriyaki Marinade for Grilled Chicken and Vegetable Kabobs
I’m not sure what I’m going to make tonight but you can bet it’s going to include the grill. The weather is gorgeous here today and any chance to get outside I’m going to jump all over it! A simple Teriyaki on chicken and vegetables is my go to for easy grilling.

Caprese Grilled Portabello Mushroom Burgers
The tomatoes aren’t ripe yet but it’s not stopping me from craving my favorite summer sandwich. I have a ton of basil on my counter so I just might have to these portabello sandwiches anyway.

BBQ Cheddar Burger with Caramelized Onions
I worked up a solid appetite this weekend with all the moving and cleaning I did so maybe I’ll splurge and go for a bbq cheddar burger. I like to eat my burgers on toasted english muffins. What about you?

Chopped Summer Salad with Garbanzo Beans
I haven’t made this salad in ages and it’s one that keeps well in the fridge so it’s perfect for having leftovers throughout the week. Plus it’s a great one to make ahead if you want to take it to a Potluck.

Chocolate Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Ice Cream
I haven’t busted out my ice cream maker yet for the season. I think it’s time, don’t you? You can’t go wrong with chocolate so maybe I’ll have to make some of this Reese’s studded ice cream for dessert!

Enjoy your last of the holiday weekend and here’s to a four day work week! Wa-hoo!!