Week 7 + it's the unofficial start of summer ☀️


Hi again Reader 👋

Happy Sunday! Welcome back to Dinner = Done, my weekly meal plan that I launched last month. Y'all are loving these newsletters because they've helped you accomplish exactly what I was hoping for — figuring out what to make for dinner at the beginning of the week so you don't need to make any last minute decisions at 5 pm.

Since I think most people consider Memorial Day weekend the unofficial start of summer, I wanted some of these recipes to reflect that. We're kicking things off with, what else, but an epic burger recipe that you'll cook on the grill. They're inspired by one of my favorite fast-casual burgers and I know y'all are going to love this copycat version. Later in the week, there are a few more casual bites like a chopped salad, one-skillet chicken, and pasta dish that still take advantage of so much summer produce (looking at you, cherry tomatoes!) and are super weeknight-friendly.

Scroll down to find all five recipes, plus a downloadable grocery list that you can take to the store. Let's have a great week!👇

Are you really celebrating Memorial Day if you aren't cooking burgers? Kidding, but seriously these spicy smash burgers need to be on your menu for the holiday! They're inspired by the classic Whataburger menu item and I'm so excited for you to try this homemade version.

If you're craving something a little bit lighter after the long weekend, this salad should do the trick! Packed with chickpeas, salami, and provolone cheese, there is plenty of protein to keep you satisfied but the colorful, crunchy veggies balance it all out. Save the leftovers for lunch the next day!

It's officially cherry tomato season and I'm cooking with them as much as possible! As they cook up, they become super jammy and create a make-shift sauce for this chicken. Serve it with feta cheese and lots of fresh dill for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

If you've been reading this newsletter for a few weeks now, then you know that Thursday night is my slow cooker night. It's the busiest day for my family so I love throwing everything together in the morning and coming home to a ready-to-eat meal at night. This pork preparation is super aromatic and flavorful, thanks to a combo of lemongrass, ginger, garlic, and lime.

Friday's dinner comes together in under 45 minutes and feels like an elevated version of your favorite Italian restaurant. Briny olives, salty capers, sweet balsamic, and lots of fresh herbs give you coastal Italian vibes from the comfort of your own kitchen 🇮🇹

Your Grocery List is Ready!

Everything you need for all 5 dinners — organized by store section to ensure that your shopping trip is easy and efficient.

Hope you have the most delicious week! As always, tag me @thedefineddish when you make these — I love seeing your creations. 🤍

The Defined Dish by Alex Snodgrass

The daily newsletter by recipe developer and New York Times best seller, Alex Snodgrass.

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