INKLING: Free Printable Menu Planner

I’ve been using a menu planner / grocery list system for years. Long before I started this blog, I created a little half sheet so I could plan out the family meals for the week and jot down my groceries. I decided to update my planner and share my new version with all of you.

WEEKEND INSPIRATION: Hexagons, Pasta and More

Happy Friday everyone. Here in the U.S. we have a three day weekend! Hooray! With the extra time, here are a few projects that I’m thinking about this weekend.

GOOD TASTE: Jazzed Up Instant Ramen Noodles

You know those instant ramen noodles – the ones that come in a compact rectangle with a little powdery season pack? Ya, those. I always keep packages of those in my cupboard. If I do make them with the season pack, I only use about 1/3 of the packet. But I rarely use the seasoning that it comes with. Instead, they’re a great base for leftovers. Beef, pork, chicken, shrimp… just about anything goes with those noodles. Here’s an example of what you can make.

THE DIRT: Preserving your bumper crop of basil

Did you plant basil this year? I love it. It’s so fun to just snip a bit off and instantly add flavor to your dish. But the basil grows so fast and there’s no way I can use it that quickly. I did a little research and wanted to try a way to preserve my fresh basil. There are loads of options. You can make basil oil, you can freeze small amounts of basil in oil or butter, you can blanch it or you can make basil salt. I was intrigued!

BE MY GUEST: Memorable Weekend Tips by Army Wife to Suburban Life

Hello ladies of Carolyn's Homework. I'm Jessica from Army Wife to Suburban Life, and I'm here to share a few ways to ensure an easy and memorable weekend.

Start your morning with this easy weekend brunch recipe, celery scented cream pots with poached eggs.

Good Taste: acorn squash & wild rice casserole

When we think about casseroles, we, or at least I, usually remember the wonderful casseroles that my mom used to make. One-dish wonders that were creamy and oh-so good. Cooking styles have evolved and so have casseroles. Oh, don’t get my wrong, I still love an old-fashioned comfort food casserole. But there are so many new ingredients and ideas for casseroles these days.