Winter Weekly Menu Plan + Shopping List
The weather continues to make us want to get warm and cozy, so comfort foods become our go-to’s. We promptly pull out the soup, bread, and pasta favorites, and like clockwork, our weekly menus begin to reflect the changing seasons. This week, we’re leaning into all things comfort foods, and we’ve got some pretty incredible meals on the lineup. You’ll find twists on tradition like Vegan Pumpkin Mac & Cheese, slow cooker favorites like Red Wine Ragù, and elevated dessert ideas like Chai-Poached Pears for your next date night in.
WEEKNIGHT MENU FAVORITES
recipe & photo via Plays Well With Butter
Vegan Pumpkin Mac & Cheese
If you’ve been stuck in a Meatless Monday rut, consider this recipe from Plays Well With Butter your new house favorite. It’s got a seasonal twist thanks to the pumpkin puree, but it’s not overpowering in the least. Plus, not often does a creamy pasta fall into the dairy-free category, but this one does exactly that.
recipe & photo via Pinch Me Good
Stuffed Acorn Squash with Chickpeas
For anyone with limited experience cooking acorn squash, this is a perfect recipe for beginners. Allow a little extra time to prep and roast your squash (about 30 minutes), and simply add fillings in from there. While this meal is vegetarian, rest assured the rice, mushrooms, and chickpeas ensure it feels super hearty.
recipe & photo via Half Baked Harvest
Slow Cooker Red Wine Ragù Pasta
If you ask us, slow cookers and winter dinners go hand-and-hand. Just toss together the ingredients early in the day, and let your slow cooker do all the heavy lifting. Come dinnertime you’ll have a warm, filling pasta that’s the definition of cozy.
recipe & photo via Unsophisticook
Apple Ham & Brie Grilled Cheese
For a weeknight meal that’s a breeze to pull together, this cozy grilled cheese is just the ticket. Start by slicing your bread nice and thick, but don’t skimp on the thyme butter for the full flavor effect. Serve it up with oven-baked sweet potato fries or a fresh salad to keep things simple.
SNACK
recipe & photo via Get Inspired Everyday
Maple Cinnamon Granola Apple Slices
Apple slice snacks are nothing new but pair those apples with your favorite nut butter plus a maple cinnamon granola, and now we’re talking. To keep this recipe super easy, grab your favorite granola from the store, or make your own if you’ve got extra time to spare. Enjoy it with a warm cup of tea, and you’ve got the ultimate afternoon pick-me-up at your desk.
TO BAKE
Chai-Poached Pears with Spiced Hazelnut Oat Crumb
Cakes and cobblers all have their place, but sometimes you want a fall dessert that really steps outside the box. Thanks to Jojotastic, we’re whipping up these chai-poached pears, and believe us when we say they’re anything but basic. Serve them up at your next dinner gathering, and they’ll be the talk of the night.
TO SIP
recipe & photo via With Food + Love
Dirty Chai Martini
Give your weekend martini a mid-January twist, with a bit of chai, maple syrup, and espresso to shake things up. This recipe is made vegan with plant-based milk for creaminess, but feel free to use whichever dairy option you already have on hand!
BY: ANASTASIA CASEY
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