Next weekend's going to be, well, intense. Do yourself a favor and take it easy this weekend in light of all thenachos, sliders, and queso dipthat lie ahead.
FRIDAY DINNER: Pasta-Risotto and Greens
This recipe takes ditalini pasta, most commonly used as a filler in soups, and treats it like risotto by simmering the stuff in stock until it's cooked. The result is a fine base for just about any greens you have on hand—kale, mustard, or escarole all work great.
SATURDAY BREAKFAST: DETOX PHO
Soup for breakfast? Absolutely. The broth found in this detox pho is downright restorative thanks to the rich, slow-simmered beef broth at its core. You'll need to start this one the day before if you're planning on eating it anytime before noon.
SATURDAY DINNER: CUMIN CHICKEN THIGHS
It doesn't get much easier than dinner cooked on a single sheet pan. This one sees chicken thighs getting a mix of cumin, sugar, and cayenne pepper and getting roasted alongside squash, fennel, and grapes.
SUNDAY BRUNCH: BAKED OATMEAL
Okay, so baked oatmeal isn't thelightestdish of all time, but it sure beats a plate full of pancakes and bacon. Load it up with whatever frozen berries you've got lying around and top the thing with rolled oats, spices, and nuts. You'll walk away with a golden crusted oatmeal you only thought was possible in dreams.
SUNDAY COCKTAIL HOUR: SMOKY, BOOZY COMFORT
Because it's almost Monday and you've earned it. Meet a boozy whiskey cocktail that's equal parts mezcal smoke and festive sweetness, thanks to a warm, spice-infused maple syrup. They go down easy but are deceptively potent. Be careful, the weekend's almost over.
