charlotteann

Hey gang. Times are tough and I know you’re sick of hearing about it. But there are relatively healthy solutions out there for those of us enjoying funemployment and/or trying to make it as an artist. Even if they aren’t very healthy you can at least feel comforted by them. Take for example the humble yet satisfying grilled cheese sandwich.

Grilled cheese sandwich with swiss and goat cheese

The grilled cheese is not only really easy to make, but you can also put whatever is in your fridge cheese-wise on it and it will all melt together in harmony. Some people like to put green things in their grilled cheese sandwiches (I did last May) but I am finding myself less inclined to do so. I think this is because I am actually using my salad spinner and eating actual salad! I hope my mom is reading this…

Just cheese

Then of course we have noodle soup. As much as I love it, instant ramen takes a toll on your system. I know I shouldn’t use the spice packet, but I do and love every salty, chemical-ridden bit of it. So as I as trying to pick out the least horrible of the instants today at the store, I noticed some fresh noodles in the refrigerated section.

Cheap noodles!

Thinking I would make my own ramen with the miso paste hanging out in my fridge (near the cheese, no doubt) I bought them. I asked the cashier how long I was supposed to cook them and he said 5 to 7 minutes, but they ended up boiling for about twice that time. After 7 minutes they were still very al dente and I just don’t like tough noodles. As the noodles cooked, I prepared my broth of miso and soy sauce with some mustard greens from Chinatown ($0.81) and leftover chicken from the previous post. I used only half of the noodles, and then ended up saving a good handful for later (I’m thinking leftover-tofu-and-noodle stir-fry tonight). I suppose cilantro-as-garnish ultimately isn’t a necessary purchase on a tight budget, but I like it. Besides, a huge bunch costs a dollar and if you put it on everything like I do it’s probably worth it.

A fine, filling lunch