By the time Saturday rolls around, our fridge is pretty empty and it’s time for another Trader Joe’s run. I wanted to find something to make a yummy hot breakfast (since every work day I have fruit for breakfast lately) and the only thing I could find was some quick oats and some fruit. I could have roasted potatoes but I didn’t feel like waiting around for 45 minutes. I didn’t even feel like dirtying a pot, so I just microwaved my bowl for 4 minutes and it made a fast, healthy, and deliciously different breakfast since I added craisins and bananas.

Cinnamon Oatmeal with Bananas and Craisins

1 serving

1/2 cup quick oats

1/2 cup almond milk 1/2 cup water

1 splash of vanilla and dash of cinnamon

Microwave for 4 minutes and top with craisins and bananas.

We’re having my parents for dinner tomorrow night and I wanted to make something I knew they would like so I started meal planning yesterday afternoon. I’m so ready for the fall weather to arrive and wear comfy sweaters and cook bean chili while having football parties! For now, I’m about to go over to my parents to watch football in my jean shorts and tshirt and order dinner because it’s still summer weather. When will this end? Luckily it really doesn’t affect what I’m cooking very much, and I’m going to make some fun things this week. Some are new and some are classics but I’m going to be adding something to put a spin on them. Remember, if you try them out then you can post on Instagram with #thecharmingchickpea. Can’t wait to see what you make!

Baked Ziti and Salad- I’m going to make this veggie filled baked pasta dish swirled with tofu ricotta and a fresh salad on the side.

Roasted Cauliflower Topped Burrito Bowl- I’m going to season cauliflower with cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder and roast it until crispy, then add it on top of our usual burrito bowl with rice, black beans, cucumber, tomatoes, and guacamole. Plus salsa!

Wonton Soup– Because I never made it last week… oops!

Eggplant, Okra, and Mushroom over rice- I’m going to make up a tomato sauce based dish with eggplant, okra, and mushrooms mixed with spices and spread over brown rice.

Lentil Tacos- I’m going to cook and season lentils to make a hearty taco filling and fill with our favorites.

Baked Beans, Potatoes, and Broccoli- A simple, easy, and flavorful meal. I used the canned baked beans from Trader Joe’s and they’re delish. Some crispy potatoes and crunchy broccoli round out the meal.

Have a great week everyone!