Since we’re in the midst of the holidays we’re going to take it easy and revisit some of my favorites.

The linked recipes feed a family of 4 – 6 with leftovers that can be used for lunch and one additional meal during the week.  These meals do not have to be prepared in any particular order, simply arrange them as best fits your schedule. Once a week we enjoy C.O.R.N which is simply a lighthearted reference to Clean Out the Refrigerator Night. Nifty.

The shopping list does not include basic pantry items such as flour and sugar, but does include all the spices used for this week. Don’t be scared to substitute and remember many of the spices, dry goods, and cheeses will not have to be purchased every week.

The grocery list is after the jump. Simple cut and paste it into a new notepad document, delete the items you have on hand, add your weekly breakfast and lunch staples, and print. It’s nearly a life of leisure. If you are fairly new to cooking, your grocery bill will drop once your pantry is stocked with basic spices and dry goods.

Have a safe and happy New Year from all of us at Blissfully Domestic and Home Ec 101.

1. Beef shoulder roast, pan roasted cauliflower, baked potatoes
Never baked a potato? It’s simple, just scrub, rub with a little olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and prick with a fork. Place on a baking sheet or in an oven proof dish and bake for at least 1 hour at 400F, they’ll need just a little longer at 350F. When the roast is done crank the oven up and put in the vegetables, by the time the roast is cut and ready to serve they’ll be done.

2. Soft chicken tacos with all the fixings
Place 1 chicken breast for every two people with adult sized appetites in the crockpot with a 1/2 – 1 cup of salsa. Cook on low until the chicken is tender. Separate from the bones and shred with forks. Use this plus shredded lettuce, cheese, diced tomatoes, avocado etc in small flour tortillas for a simple dinner. Older kids may enjoy filling their own tacos.

3. Beef and cheddar melts on hoagie rolls, steamed broccoli (or serve raw with ranch for dipping)

If you have time, you can make your own rolls, otherwise just grab a pack from the bakery section. Cut hoagie rolls in half and toast under the broiler. Add thin slices of the leftover beef shoulder to each half of the hoagie roll, cover with cheese and place back under the broiler until melty, gooey, and delicious. Serve.

4. Chicken bog, cornbread, collards

Chicken bog is nothing more than a simple jambalaya type dish, don’t be intimidated and don’t forget to pass the hot sauce. Coincidentally some people eat collards on New Years Day to bring wealth into the New Year. It’s a fun tradition.

5. Oven fried fish and chips, green beans

6. Brinner Time
This week scrambled eggs, whole wheat toast, yogurt, and fresh fruit.

7. It’s once again time for C.O.R.N.  Yay!

Dairy Case and Products
Butter
Eggs
Shredded cheese for tacos (alternatively grate some of the cheddar for the hoagies)
Cheddar
Milk
Sour cream
Yogurt (your favorite flavor)

Dry Goods
Baking powder
Bread (for toast)
Bread crumbs
Cornmeal (yellow – just use yellow with the fish and chips)
Hoagie rolls
Flour tortillas
Rice

Freezer
Green beans

Meat
Beef Shoulder Roast
Split chicken breasts
Smoked sausage
Whole chicken or 3 – 5 lbs of chicken parts
Whiting or Cod Filets

Produce
Avocado (optional)
Broccoli
Cauliflower
Garlic
Lettuce
Onions
Potatoes
Tomatoes
Whatever fresh fruit strikes your fancy

Spices and Condiments
Bay leaves
Cayenne (optional)
Dill
Garlic powder
Lawry’s Seasoned Salt
Red pepper
Red Wine (can substitute beef broth / bouillon, if you don’t use alcohol)
Salsa
Worcestershire sauce