Trying New Things

As opposed to dogs, human beings are able to learn new tricks, even as they age. (by the way, so can dogs, but, like humans, it's harder) Having just come from a week in Mexico, where all I did was try new things, I'm inspired to have more new recipes on the menu this week than I usually do. Not mexican dishes, mind you--I need a break--but new nonetheless.

Here's to a week of trying new things! Leave a comment and let me know what new things YOU'RE trying this week!

Sunday: Pork Tenderloin with Cherry-Black Pepper Sauce, steamed broccoli, brown rice pilaf (boxed, such as Near East)

Pork Tenderloin with Cherry-Black Pepper Sauce

oven to 425.

Sprinkle pork with 3/4 t. salt and 1/2 t. black pepper. Melt 1 t. butter in large skillet over med-high heat. Add 2lb pork tenderloin; cook 2 min. on each side or until browned. Transfer pork to jelly roll pan coated with cooking spray. Bake at 425 for 25 min or until done. Remove pork from oven; let stand 10 min.
Return skillet to med. heat. Add 1/4 c. sliced shallots; cook 3 min or until shallots are translucent, stirring occasionally. Add 1 t. black pepper, 1/4 t. salt, 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar, and 1/2 cup cherry preserves. Bring to a boil, scraping pan to loosen browned bits. Reduce heat to low and simmer 6 min or until sauce slightly thickens. Stir in 2 T. butter.
Serve sauce with pork.

Monday: breakfast for dinner: Garlicky Spinach-Sausage Gratin, fresh fruit

Tuesday: meal swap meal (pull something from the freezer)

Wednesday: meal swap meal (Jill cooks)...serve leftovers if you're not swapping

Thursday: meal swap meal (I cook): grilled fish, Spicy Parmesan Green Beans and Kale, steamed red potatoes

Friday: Oven Fried Chicken, Smashed Potatoes, steamed sugar snap peapods

Saturday: pizza