More easy weeknight meals

Embarrassing how lame a blogger I’ve been. Just embarrassing! But alas, back on the blogging horse I go to offer up a couple of ideas for easy weeknight recipes, an obsession of mine. Here are two new arrows in your quiver, one for vegetarians, the other for carnivores.

Tortellini or ravioli with fresh grape tomatoes. Frozen bags of stuffed pasta cook up in no time, and some, like Whole Foods 365 brand, have no preservatives. A quick sauté of minced garlic and sliced (or even squeezed!) grape tomatoes makes for a terrific, simple sauce. Top with fresh basil and add a side salad for one fast dinner.

Rack of lamb. Yes, it’s pricey, but it’s so simple and can make a tiresome weeknight feel cozy and special. Slather the rack with your favorite mustard and spices, then cook at 500 degrees for 10 minutes. Reduce the heat to 400 degrees, sprinkle the outside with breadcrumbs and a little melted butter, then cook another 20 minutes for medium rare. Fast and easy sides include boiled, parsleyed new potatoes and baked asparagus with kosher salt (350 degrees for 20-25 minutes).

Happy eating!