When I announced on the Red, Round, or Green Facebook page that I would be willing to extend the “Monday Menus” theme for a few more weeks to cover some quick weeknight dinners, I joked that I’d have to offer only ONE recipe per week (rather than the six I’d been posting each Monday for our Lunchbox Edition), or else go insane or end up with consumption or hysteria or some other equally arcane lady ailment.  My wonderful, supportive readers responded with understanding and calm…and a timid, “Couldn’t we talk you into two?”

Two it shall be!  Last week I was far too frazzled and frankly unprepared for this segment to offer two cohesive meals, though I’ll count myself as having offered two recipes as the Autumn Stir-Fry with Cheater Scallion “Pancakes” is, indeed, two entirely separate components.  (Just call me Madame Loophole.)  However, this week I’m ready for you, and I’ve got two meals that are basic variations on a simple dinner theme.  You could actually serve both in the same week without it seeming too boring, as the ingredients are similar, but the flavor profiles are slightly different — which would be an excellent solution if you’re trying to sort of keep your grocery list small.

Tonight’s meals are super-quick, low-cook takes on the old Sausage and Peppers flavor combination.  Sausages and hams — as long as they are uncured and nitrate-free — are excellent candidates for quick cooking, and tend to be pretty family-friendly.  Peppers are colorful and highly nutritious, not to mention sweet and versatile.  Using these two ingredients as a tried and true basis for almost any easy supper is almost a guaranteed home run.

On the Menu:

Grilled Sausages and Vegetables with Caprese Chopped Salad

Garlicky Whole-Wheat Pasta with Ham and Peppers

Grilled Sausages and Vegetables with Caprese Chopped Salad
Garlicky Whole-Wheat Pasta with Ham and Peppers