Cookin it up...

I know this may sound a little ridiculous, but I've been so proud of myself lately. Those of you who know me well, know that I'm not that interested in cooking. I've never really enjoyed cooking that much, I'm not very creative in the kitchen, and I usually don't have anything resembling the basic necessities of cooking. I tend to buy food items that don't require any actual cooking - you know, yogurt, cereal, salads, sandwiches, etc. I have been known to occasionally cook spaghetti or macaroni and cheese....things that you can't screw up too badly. (I'm the jerk that always bogarts bringin the salad or the chips and dip option for dinner parties because I dislike cooking so much) (or I bring a store-bought dessert)

I'm sure that having Bradley around all the time has helped in some way, but ultimately I'm not sure why I have a sudden interest in cooking food. Part of is has to do with food being so expensive here, and part of it has to do with my interest in saving money (see previous post), and the only real way to remedy that situation is to cook at home. Part of it also probably has to do with my being in a relationship - I didn't realize how much of my motivation to go out was fueled by the desire to meet someone special. Now that I have him....I really couldn't care less about going out (during the week). I'm so happy to come home, catch up on our days, cook some dinner, and snuggle up with a movie.

ANYWAY.....my point is.....(good lord I'm verbose sometimes).....after going to Costco on Sunday and spending a whole love of money and buying in bulk, I made a decision that I would not eat out for three weeks. The impetus being the desire to not spend anymore money when I have perfectly good food in the house. Normally I do that kind of thing, and then eventually the majority of that food just goes to waste. This time....no can do! I have cooked dinner every single night since Sunday, and like I said, I am goofily proud of myself. (yes, goofily is a word Elissa) (look it up) (it's right next to irregardless).

Wednesday night was an extra special night of cooking for me for two reasons: Number Uno, Bradley was bringing over some fish that he caught. Too cool to be able to catch your dinner. Some of you may be gasping at the thought of my eating fish. I was too, but I was determined to try it because Bradley caught it! Number Dos, I was going to make these portobella mushrooms that are uber delicioso that Tilla used to make when I lived with her in SJ. So we did it up right: A beautiful Ullua filet, some fish fried rice, broiled portobella mushrooms with feta and balsamic, and a gorgeous green salad with local avocados. Talk about a meal fit for a king - and even more exciting, I ate every bite of that fish, and asked for more. It was not fishy tasting at all, and I loved it.

Last night I made a chicken pasta with garlic, olive oil, and lemon. It was quite tasty. Tuesday night I made a sweet and spicy thai chicken. I can't say that I'm getting creative yet - I don't know if I will ever be in my mom's category, but I am pleased with a newfound enjoyment of cooking dinner. And also glad that I have someone who really loves to cook - Bradley is most definitely creative in the kitchen, and I'm taking notes.

I actually even went out and bought a little set of knives - one big one and one paring knife - nothing special, and certainly not CUTCO, but they cut so much better than the stuff that was at the house, and it makes a HUGE difference in the process.

Send recipes!!!


Bradley's fish.....mmmmm......




And Bradley.....mmmmm..... :)