As much as I love spending time in the kitchen, sometimes it just isn’t feasible. We all have the nights when spending an hour to make dinner is just not an option. One of my favorite “after soccer, before next activity meals”  growing up was tortellini with pesto. My Mom always makes batches of pesto when the basil is blooming and then freezes it to use throughout the year. I have very fond memories of those rushed, but always finding time to eat as a family, meals.

Unfortunately I don’t have any home-made pesto to toss with tortellini, but I have something that comes pretty close, with an ethnic twist. Jalfreezi Simmer Sauce makes dinner taste like it’s been simmering away for hours, instead of minutes. When served with some naan, brown rice and tofu, you can almost pretend that you are at your favorite Indian joint.

The sauce is delicious and the ingredient list is real. Does it get any better than that? I’ve had pre-made sauces in the past and was never thrilled, but this I can say will be making it to my pantry again.

The Makings of a fast, delicious Indian meal at home:

• Seeds of Change Jalfrezi Simmer Sauce
• tofu
• whole grain naan
• steamed broccoli and cauliflower

What is your go-to quick meal?

I’m convinced that I could eat asparagus every single day – I love it that much. Usually, a bit of olive oil, garlic and salt is all it needs, but I do appreciate pairing it with some salty cheese every now and then. This most recent side dish used feta and it went perfectly with some grilled salmon.

I’ve never quite understood how people can claim to not like vegetables, but I’m fairly certain it’s just because they haven’t had veggies prepared correctly…they don’t know what they are missing!

Grilled Asparagus with Feta - 2 servings

• 1 bunch asparagus, ends snapped off
• 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
• 2 oz feta cheese
• salt & pepper

Heat grill to medium. Season asparagus with olive oil, salt and pepper. Grill for about 10 minutes, depending on size. Cut into thirds and crumble feta cheese over top.