Preparation for Memorial Day is in full swing over here, and that means plenty of meal planning, deep-cleaning, and soaking up the sun. Whether you’re going out to party next weekend or staying home with family, this week of easy and satiating meals will keep you fueled for all the fun times ahead!
Creamy Monday: Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Olive Garden holds a special place in my heart because my husband Tim and I enjoyed so many date nights there in our early married years. The creamy gnocchi soup was always his favorite, and he was so happy when I created this homemade version!
Hot tips
- Learn how to make your own gnocchi here. It’s easier than you think!
- Round out the meal with a side of breadsticks and a Caesar salad (Olive Garden style!).
- I love making soups at the beginning of the week because they make amazing leftovers for lunch!
Taco Tuesday: Taco Salad
Our family is crazy about tacos, but sometimes I don’t have the time or energy to set up an entire taco bar. That’s when this salad recipe comes in clutch! Next time the craving hits, toss all your favorite taco ingredients together and call it a day.
Hot tips
- Get ahead with prep by chopping the veggies, cooking the meat, and mixing up the taco seasoning in advance.
- Serve the taco salad with homemade tortillas or air fryer tortilla chips.
Simple Wednesday: Air Fryer Salmon Bites
These crispy salmon bites are a seafood staple in our house. I love how lightning fast they are to make (10 minutes!), and they taste incredible with just about any side!
Hot tips
- Buy skinless salmon filets to make chopping easier.
- Whip up Alfredo pasta, rice, Parmesan panko roasted veggies, or a garden salad as a side.
30-Minute Thursday: Veggie Lo Mein
Do you have a forgotten head of broccoli or a few bell peppers waiting to be used up? This lo mein is one of my favorite vegetarian meals of all time — taste and see why!
Hot tips
- You can find dried lo mein noodles in the Asian aisle of most grocery stores, but it’s even better if you can get the fresh refrigerated ones.
- Don’t feel limited to the veggies in the recipe — throw in anything you have on hand! Make sure to sauté each different type of veggie separately to build flavor and ensure even cooking.
BBQ Friday: 30-Minute Instant Pot Ribs
When I think of Memorial Day weekend, I think of juicy meat and barbecue sauce. Skip the hours of slow-cooking in the oven (because who’s got time for that?), and try this Instant Pot shortcut for fall-off-the-bone ribs.
Hot tips
- Buy a rack of baby back pork ribs for the best results.
- If you have ketchup and a few pantry staples, you have everything you need to make the best homemade BBQ sauce.
- Enjoy corn on the cob, mac and cheese, and sweet and spicy pickles alongside the ribs. Save any leftovers for next Monday’s dinner!
Breakfast of the Week: Ham and Cheese Quiche
Ham & cheese is a beloved combo for a reason! Toss the two together with creamy scrambled eggs and a flaky pie crust, and you’ve got a mouthwatering breakfast or brunch.
Dessert of the Week: Eton Mess
This heavenly mixture of crunchy meringue, silky whipped cream, and fresh strawberries screams “summer.” It’s like a way easier version of pavlova!
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