FAST FOOD

I had a such a busy week last week! I had a few evenings where I was home late, and it was just me. I ended up cooking two of my all time favourite easy suppers. Just because you are eating alone doesn't mean you have to get take-away or resort to disgusting frozen pre-made dinners.

UGLY PASTA
Anyway- the first is super easy although not very pretty, so no pic!-Get some fresh ravioli- I keep a few packets in the freezer (not quite a frozen dinner but good for emergencies) Experiment a bit with the ravioli flavours- there are some great ones out there -depending on the supermarket or deli you buy from. I tend to go for a stronger flavour with this dish. Cook it as directed, drain and return it to the same pan, then toss in a big handful of rocket (1/2 a small packet), a knob of butter, some chopped herbs (i mostly have continental parsley lying around, but recently have been obsessed with thyme, which is also delicious) lots of parmesan cheese and cracked black pepper and sea salt. Put the pan back on the heat for a minute until the rocket wilts, and then eat! EASY PEASY- it takes all of 2 minutes more than it takes for water to boil.

CLASSIC SALAD NICOISE
The second is Salad Nicoise. I like to cook as much in one pot as possible when cooking for one somehow it seems like it is less of an effort. So, cook soome new potatoes and an egg in the same pot, and then whilst they are cooking, chop up some green beans (i had no beans the other day and used brocolli,which was also delicious), ready to toss in with the potatoes in the last 4 minutes of cooking.
Whilst that is cooking, chop some tomatoes, and dress some lettuce on the plate you will serve on. Then, mix a small tin of tuna with some good mayonnaise (i like Hellmans), and mash in some anchovies(not essential, but i love their fishy saltiness).
Take the potatoes, egg and beans off the stove, and drain, then cool by running cold water over. Slice the potatoes, and egg, and arrange all on the plate with the lettuce, tomato and tuna.
Eat with some baguette, and possibly a glass of chardonnay (my fave!)