My friend’s version of cooking is taking two random ingredients and combining them. For example, canned green beans get paired with frozen meatballs and corn gets tossed in with sauteed chicken sausage. I always tease her about it, but I gotta say- it’s not bad!
Most of the time, I love whipping up fresh, unique dishes, like spiced chickpea tomato soup or marinated caprese salad. But on the days I don’t have the time, energy, or motivation to make a Tuscan chicken casserole, I should take inspiration from my friend- being satisfied with simple, easy combinations. Maybe it’s no colorful wheatberry salad, but hey, it’s also not McDonalds!
So I’m giving myself permission to buy a packet of Old El Paso Taco Seasoning instead of making the seasoning from scratch. Or even easier, buy Amy’s Southwestern Burritos. Stock up on Green Giant’s Just for One Broccoli & Cheese Sauce. Toss a few Bird’s Eye Voila! meals-like Garlic Chicken or Pasta Primavera with Chicken- into my cart. Sip Trader Joe’s Organic Roasted Red Pepper & Tomato Soup.
Just not all the time….because seriously? Why is the first ingredient in taco seasoning maltodextrin?
Scintillating Simplicity 
That soup looks to die for. I’ve been trying to think of something creative and different to do with my chickpeas. I’ll have to try it! The spice combination sounds so yummy.
Thanks for the comment! It is amazing and so easy to make. This is really good too. Gotta love Martha Stewart and her recipes 🙂