It’s that time again. Time for weeknight dinner planning. I love getting your feedback on how you’re using Weeknight Rescue, so please continue to share your comments and emails. And if you’re on Instagram, be sure to follow me and tag your photos #momskitchenhandbook so I know what you’re up to!

PORK CHOPS WITH GINGER RHUBARB COMPOTE

Rhubarb is on the horizon and it doesn’t last, so I thought I’d get going with a favorite spring dish: savory grilled chops with a tangy rhubarb compote. This roasted asparagus and potatoes done any way you like them make perfect sides. 

MINI MAC AND CHEESE WITH BROCCOLI

These will work for dinner or double for lunch. They’re full of protein, thanks to four eggs in the recipe, so have some staying power. It’s a good one to make ahead and keep on hand (freezes well, too).

ASPARAGUS AND SMOKED SALMON TART

I made this all last spring and it’s always a hit. You start with puff pastry, layer on smoked salmon and eggs whisked with goat cheese, and then finish with asparagus. It’s kind of a show stopper and works for brunch, lunch, or a light supper.

SO EASY COTTAGE CHEESE DIP

Cottage Cheese Dip

File this one under “least sexy recipe on the blog.” That said, it’s a keeper that I grew up eating. It makes a great snack or pre-dinner nibble with veggies or crackers

If you’re in the mood to bake something special (and enjoy the first strawberries of the season), this is good place to start. It’s also great on an Easter table if you are in planning mode.

SHOPPING LIST // WEEK 15 

Pork Chops with Ginger Rhubarb Compote

4 boneless pork chops that are about 6 ounces each
4 small fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil plus more for cooking the chops
1/2 small red onion
1 clove garlic
4 large stalks rhubarb
Juice of 1 large orange
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon honey

Mini Mac and Cheese with Broccoli

Olive oil cooking spray
2 cups elbow macaroni (8 ounces)
1 1/2 cups tiny broccoli florets
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup milk
2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 eggs

Asparagus and Smoked Salmon Tart

One 14-ounce sheet puff pastry 
All-purpose flour for rolling out the pastry
4 ounces thinly sliced smoked salmon
4 ounces chèvre (goat cheese)
3 large eggs
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives
1 tablespoon finely chopped dill
1 large bunch asparagus

So Easy Cottage Cheese Dip

One 16-ounce container low-fat cottage cheese
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
3 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
¼ cup finely chopped red onion 

Orange Almond Cake with Vanilla Mousse and Strawberries

1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), plus more for greasing cake pan
6 pasteurized eggs
1 cup + 3 Tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons orange juice
1 medium orange
1¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup raw almonds
1 cup whole-wheat pastry flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
¼ cup orange juice
½ teaspoon unsweetened gelatin
½ teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1 1/2 cups sliced strawberries or other favorite berries