Is it tough to come up with dynamic gifts for the ones you love?

Trying to figure out what to get that special lady this year?

As a female myself I KNOW I would love these gifts for her:

1. Filet Mignon (with bacon, please)

2. Beef Wellington (I’m in charge of cooking for my family and I can just pop these in the oven and they’re done!)

3. Anything that’s Heat & Serve (ham? yes! sides like twice-baked potatoes? double yes!)

The way to a woman’s heart is definitely through her stomach. And in my case, steaks are a direct route.

Surprise her with something that says “I know you!” this year and she’ll always be grateful.

The weather has taken a turn and it’s comfort food time! Can you believe it?

Here’s my personal list of Top 10 Comfort Foods…

1. Roast. The aroma while it’s cooking is absolutely heavenly.

2. Anything with cheese. Homestyle mac and cheese, cheesy creamed spinach and on and on!

3. Beef Wellington. This is one of those bake in the oven and devour by the fire meals.

4. Brisket. It’s great any time of year, but is so satisfying in cooler months.

5. A full turkey dinner. Total comfort food.

6. While we’re at it. Let’s add ham. Oh yum.

7. Stuffed pork chops. So warm and filling!

8. Twice baked potatoes. Again with the cheesy stuff. I can’t help it!

9. Wine! Okay, maybe it’s not technically “food,” but it sure is comforting!

10. We can’t forget dessert. Molten chocolate cake? Yes, please!

Make your own list and see how it compares to mine. I’ll bet we’ll have some duplicates!

Photo courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.

The kids are back in school and the schedules and time crunch is back!

We need meals that are nourishing and delicious, but also hassle-free. That’s why I LOVE these easy back-to-school night meals. You literally heat, then serve them!

Here are 5 easy ways to make weeknight dinnertime a wonderful experience:

1. Brisket with twice-baked potatoes. The meat is already sliced and sauced. Put it in the oven (the potatoes, too) and voila!
2. Hickory-smoked ham and mashed potatoes with porcini mushrooms. Delicious and different. This meal is a hit!
3. Chicken Spiedini. A new twist on a mealtime favorite – chicken! This Italian dish is so savory your family will devour it. Serve with your favorite noodles.
4. Cold Water Lobster Tails. Did they ace the test? Break out this seafood favorite! You can grill, bake or boil them. Whichever way you choose, it’s simple! Try with creamed spinach.
5. Beef Wellington. Put it in the oven and you have a gourmet meal that is rich and flavorful. Green beans in a mushroom cream sauce are an excellent accompaniment!

May all your school nights be stress free – or at least the ones when you take it easy on yourself and serve these meals!

Photo courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.