Just Another Manic Monday

     I don't have much for you today. It is monday, so I actually have been quite proactive in terms of home, food, kids etc. I had dinner planned this morning, and even braved Costco with all three this afternoon even after I had run my youngest two ragged between my typical monday cleaning mania and all other errands, including the bank.  I guess that is my lot for now. We have spent days, weeks even going over and re-hashing out what is to become of our little crew after Feb 25th, since my hubby graduates military language training that day, we sign out of our house, and better have some sort of plan in order as it is currently proposed (not set, just proposed) that the movers should actually be here a few days before the 25th. The wheels are in motion, somehow we just seem to have missed the bus. Oh well, it looked a little crowded anyway. We'll wait for the next one. On that adventurous note, here is a perfectly delightful sort of caribbean jerk style Better Homes and Gardens inspired marinated salmon that was designed (and I am quite sure of this) to melt all the Monday doldrums and craziness away (try saying that 3 times fast!) You can use it on any type of meat, but then, it wouldn't be quite as adventurous would it?!

     Herbed Adobo Salmon Fillets 


2 Tbsp packed brown sugar
2 Tbsp olive oil
2 Tbsp orange juice
2 Tbsp snipped FRESH cilantro (dried works, but fresh is best!)
1 Tbsp red wine or cider vinegar
2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried, crushed oregano
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper
1/2 tsp cinnamon
3 cloves fresh minced garlic
4-6 salmon fillets (depending on size, try 4-6oz each and this should be plenty for 6)


Mix all above ingredients in a gallon ziploc bag or a fairly large shallow dish. Add salmon fillets, make sure they are good and covered. Marinate for at least 1 hour (can be done the night before though, turning occasionally) These cook the best on a grill for about 3-4 min per side, til the salmon flakes with a fork. If no grill, try the oven for 8-10 or so (may need longer with more fillets!) at 375^. Also works pan sauteed (that is my next choice if there is no BBQ option). Heat about 1 Tbsp olive oil in a large pan til hot, place salmon in. Do not crowd, cook for about 3-4 min per side til fish flakes (more minutes if fish is over 1/2 inch thick). Serve with baked sweet potatoes or wild rice, salad and a yummy steamed veggie favorite.