Weekly Roundup: Post-Super Bowl Freebies, Avocado Tip, Freezer Meals + Menu Plan

I went skiing yesterday for the first time since I was in college, so I'm aching all over today (but especially in the calves). At the same time, I'm so proud of myself for going outside of my comfort zone and doing something I wasn't sure I could do and that I was a little scared to do ... and I'm reminded of how important it is to keep pushing our comfort boundaries. And I was thinking that we ask our kids to do it all the time - at the start of each new school year, trying out for a sports team, and especially for my kids right now, going off to college. But as adults, we need to do it too! (I've marked affiliate/referral links with a *, which means I may make a little bit of money if you make a purchase or sign up using that link - thank you!)

Today at Starbucks, you can get a free tall hot or iced coffee if you're a Rewards member. Note that the offer might not be available at all stores, like those inside supermarkets.

Also today only at Carl's Jr., you can get a free Alix Earle Hangover Burger if you're a My Rewards member.

Too late for the Super Bowl, but if you're local, you can always get avocados so here's a Kitchn tip: use a potato masher to make your guacamole.

I consider myself reasonably well-educated when it comes to food allergy safety, but I was surprised (and horrified) to learn that at least in Italy, cross-contact due to pasta cooking water is possible if not common.

Last week, I made a triple batch of meatballs so I now have some meatballs in the freezer. But I realized that I haven't been stocking my freezer much, and I miss the ease of being able to easily produce a meal. So that'll be something I'll be looking to do more of in the next few weeks.

MENU PLAN - February 10, 2025

Monday -  Tofu and Green Beans with Chili Crisp (didn't get to this last week)

Tuesday - Salmon Chirashizushi

Wednesday - Stuffed Manicotti (using this RTE recipe as a guide, but I'm skipping the beef; I'll make two pans and freeze one)

Thursday-Sunday - Dinner out (we have plans for the long weekend!)

Please let me know if there's something you'd like to see in the roundup. And don't forget to sign up for my monthly periodic email newsletter!