Table for One (or Two): A Cozy Homecooked Meal

Starter: Herbed Goat Cheese and Tomato Galette

Start your meal with this flaky, savory galette that feels fancy without the fuss. It’s the perfect way to whet your appetite.

Ingredients (Serves 1–2):

🛞 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade)

🛞 1/2 cup goat cheese

🛞 1 tbsp fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped

🛞 1 small tomato, thinly sliced

🛞 1 tsp olive oil

🛞 Salt and pepper

🛞 1 egg (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pie crust on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

2. Mix goat cheese with herbs and spread it onto the center of the crust, leaving a 1.5-inch border.

3. Layer the tomato slices on top, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.

4. Fold the crust edges over the filling, pleating as you go. Brush with an egg wash.

5. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and bubbly. Serve warm as a delightful appetizer.

 

Main Course: Lemon Butter Orzo with Crispy Chickpeas

Comforting yet adventurous, this creamy orzo dish with crispy chickpeas delivers big flavor in every bite.

Ingredients (Serves 1–2):

🛞 1/2 cup orzo pasta

🛞 1 tbsp unsalted butter

🛞 Zest and juice of 1 lemon

🛞 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

🛞 1/2 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained

🛞 1 tbsp olive oil

🛞 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

🛞 Salt and pepper to taste

🛞 Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss chickpeas with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, then roast for 20 minutes until crispy

2. Cook orzo in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

3. In the same pot, melt butter and stir in lemon zest and juice. Add orzo back to the pot and toss to coat. Stir in Parmesan, season with salt and pepper, and serve topped with crispy chickpeas and fresh parsley.

 

Dessert: Honey-Roasted Pears with Mascarpone

A simple yet sophisticated dessert that’s light, flavorful, and perfect for winding down your evening.

Ingredients (Serves 1–2):

🛞 2 ripe pears, halved and cored

🛞 2 tbsp honey

🛞 1 tbsp butter, melted

🛞 1/2 tsp cinnamon

🛞 1/4 cup mascarpone cheese

🛞 1 tsp vanilla extract

🛞 Chopped walnuts or pistachios (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange pear halves cut-side up in a baking dish.

2. Drizzle the pears with melted butter and honey, then sprinkle with cinnamon.

3. Roast for 20–25 minutes, until soft and caramelized.

4. While the pears roast, mix the mascarpone cheese with vanilla extract.

5. Serve the warm pears with a dollop of mascarpone and a sprinkle of nuts for added crunch.

                                                          

This three-course dinner isn’t just a meal, it’s an experience. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing the love with someone special, these recipes are brimming with comfort, creativity, and just the right touch of indulgence.

Bon appétit,
The Grocery Club