Table for One
Most nights I cook dinner at home just for me. Rarely I will get takeout (sushi - yum) but generally I’m not a fan of restaurant meals unless it’s a special place.
Cooking for one can be a challenge, however. I look for dishes that are simple and healthy, yet full of flavour.
Fried rice is a favourite. You can add any vegetables you like but I aways first fry an omelette to be put aside, cut up and returned to the pan later. Leftover meats are perfect in fried rice, or I usually have shrimp in the freezer which defrosts in a flash and is a great source of lean protein. The sauce is important - I typically include garlic, ginger, sesame oil, soya sauce, rice vinegar etc.
Another easy but scrumptious item on my regular meal rotation is miso salmon baked in the oven and served with plain rice and a vegetable like broccoli or bok choy or carrots (or all of the above!)
My mother used to make us ground beef cutlets that are dipped in egg and bread crumbs then fried. I have continued this tradition and think of her whenever I do. So good with oven baked potatoes and a salad.
Though I’m known for cooking pasta in quantities to serve a horde of famished diners, it is possible to buy fresh ravioli and make a quick sauce of butter and parmigiana, or even faster, just use a jar of sundried tomato pesto. Very tasty.
I’m not ashamed to admit that once in a while dinner will just be a toasted bagel with peanut butter. When you live alone you’re allowed to be a bit naughty!
