On the Menu (10-14 to 10-20)

For the last several years I have challenged myself to focus on using from my pantry and shop less for a couple months each winter... a Pantry Challenge.  With the end of February and this year's pantry challenge complete, I found that I really liked having a basic menu plan to guide me.  I decided to continue making a month long menu, and to be intentional about using fresh garden produce and preserves.  We are still harvesting a few cold tolerant items and preserving a few things, but for the most part it is now time once again to enjoy what I was able to preserve this summer. :}

Overall, I have to say that intentional menu planning has been good for my family. :D  It only takes me 15-20 min to put together a new menu for the month unless I get stuck trying to think of something new to add.  If you are interested in joining me in intentional menu planning, check out my Pantry Challenge post to get an idea of how to get started.

Here is what is on our menu this week...

Garden fresh this week:
-carrots
-kohlrabi
-kale
-cabbage

Meals:
Pork Carnitas - homemade pepper sauce
Homemade Pizza - home canned pizza sauce
No Peek Chicken & frozen garden broccoli
Meatloaf and baked potatoes
Beef Enchilada - homemade tomato sauce

Snack:
-fresh apples
-fruit leathers
-banana bread

 Preserve:
-no plans this week;  still waiting for the rest of my green tomatoes to ripen in my kitchen

Is your garden done or are you harvesting and eating fresh yet this week?  Are you preserving any garden produce this week?  I'd love hear about your favorite recipes!

Happy Garden Eating! :)