An All American Romantic Dinner

Meatloaf made with Homemade Barbecue Sauce

They say the way to a person’s heart is through their stomach. After years of observation, I know it is true. When you think about it, it makes sense. What better way is there to get to know someone or enjoy someone’s company than over a leisurely and healthy meal? And then what better way is there to show someone how much you care about them than to fix a home cooked meal? Especially in this day and age when time is precious. To create a meal is a true gift.

Another truth is that sometimes simple is the best choice. There is something classic and comforting about a dinner made of meat and potatoes. And there is nothing to say it can't be healthy. Just choose your recipes wisely or use the links I have provided. Keeping it simple can evoke hums of joy and murmurs of delight. There is nothing sexier.

For your next romantic dinner consider an all American menu of meatloaf, mashed potatoes and green beans. For the appetizer deviled eggs are a fun choice and can have creative toppings like bacon, green onions or capers. For dessert there is nothing more American than apple pie. To make it easier, consider making it an apple crisp (and to make it gluten free use oat flour rather than all purpose flour). Voila! You have one delicious dinner to be savored and remembered.

For the meatloaf here is my recipe made with homemade barbecue sauce (a very American food)-

Homemade Barbecue Meatloaf

Ingredients~

For the sauce:

¼ cup ketchup (simple is best without added sugar or salt)

1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon worstershire sauce

1 tablespoon brown sugar

⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper

For the meatloaf:

1 pound 83% lean ground beef

Homemade barbecue sauce, divided in half

¼ cup onion, finely chopped

¼ cup whole wheat bread crumbs (Panko)

½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

¼ cup liquid egg whites

¼ teaspoon ground pepper

Olive oil cooking spray

Directions~

For the sauce:

1. Mix all ingredients together. Once mixed it is ready to use.

For the meatloaf:

1.Combine ½ of the homemade barbecue sauce with all other ingredients.

2. Place mixed ingredients into a loaf pan sprayed with olive oil cooking spray.

3. Top with remaining barbecue sauce.

4. Bake at 370 degrees for 30 minutes. Let stand for 10 minutes before slicing.

Cut into 8 slices. Serves 4: 2 slices each.

Enjoy! And Live Vibrant!