Leftovers
Happy Thursday ladies. I am moved and humbled beyond belief by your outpouring of support and prayers on Tuesday’s post. It is taking a concerted effort to keep my spirits up, but I knew I needed to share because I know I’m not the only one in this position. We are all waiting for life to return to normal so we can get on with things and many of you are struggling with health issues as well.
I’ll be continuing to respond to your comments, but quite frankly, I’m often brought to tears by your kind words so it’ll take a little time:) xx
As I reached for this old white shirt yesterday, I paused when I saw that it was not a no-iron fabric. In fact, I had ironed it. Did I want to “waste” an ironed shirt to just stay at home? You bet. I don’t get dressed for others, I dress for me. I skipped a necklace and added my fun pearl earrings from J. Crew Factory which are marked down to $8.50. The sweater is old and the jeans are here.
Let’s move on to food because I don’t know about you, but it feels like I’m always in the kitchen these days. I’m cooking and eating more than ever because it’s a tangible way that I can nurture my family. I’ve also discovered it’s saving us money because I’m making sure we use all leftovers. This, in turn, is helping to stretch our food dollars.
Today I’m sharing a recipe I frequently make for lunch the day after we have fish for dinner. I’ve made this with salmon, cod, even mahi-mahi, so it’ll work with just about any fish. I’ve even made this is with a can of tuna.
This time I used a leftover Halibut fillet.
Gluten-Free Fish Cakes
Ingredients
1 leftover fillet of cooked fish
3 green onions, minced
1 egg
2 tbsp Dijon Mustard
1 tbsp horseradish
several dashes of Worchester sauce
1/3 cup mayo
2 slices gluten-free bread, coarsely grated
1 tbsp Old Bay Seasoning
salt and pepper
Directions
Flake the fish in a small bowl. Add scallions and gluten-free bread crumbs.
In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, Dijon, Worchester sauce, horseradish, mayo. Blend into fish mixture and mash together.
Form into patties and fry on medium-high heat until crispy.
Serve with lemon and/or cocktail sauce.
I will never win any awards for food photography because I can’t remember to take them before I start eating:)
We had it with leftover Acorn squash and brussels sprouts.
I suspect we’re all getting bored with our menus these days, so I thought it might be fun to swap some recipes. I’d love you to share one of your quick and easy recipes in the comment section so we can all get some new ideas.
I can’t help but notice how many stores are running huge sales with deep discounts. Retailers, large and small are all struggling so they’ve marked everything down. I am shopping a few of these sales but I’m not buying anything just because it’s discounted.
Talbots is having their great spring sale with up to 50% off plus free shipping in USA and Canada on orders over $75.
Ann Taylor is also giving 50% off your entire purchase, plus an extra 10% with the code TAKECARE.
J. Crew is offering 50% off with the code REFRESH
I ordered this dress in the navy in a small because all the reviews say it runs large. I’m seriously considering this watermelon stripe top to wear under my denim jacket because it’s just fun and I need things that are fun right now.
Are you cooking more than ever too?
If you like the sound of this recipe, please pin it to your Pinterest board.
Thanks for reading and remember to wear what makes you feel confident.
Hi there
Another gorgeous sunny day on the west coast of Canada. The cherry blossoms are falling to the ground like snow – beautiful to watch.
My husband at times makes crab cakes = delicious and we have done salmon cakes.
No online clothes shopping for me but I did order CHOCOLATES! One of our local chocolatiers was taking orders/delivering. So fortunate as my ex neighbour told me she had none left – so I ordered a box for her upcoming 90th birthday and some for us.
Love your posts. Thank you for sharing difficult topics. All my best to you.
I am placing grocery orders online for pickup. I have started calling these my “fantasy grocery lists”, because only 40 percent of what I order is actually available. So it looks like we’ll be going vegetarian, since no meat or poultry is available now, and dairy and eggs are sporadic. No flour is available. This is not in my cooking lexicon. Quiche, while the milk, eggs and flour last?
I too just made fish cakes for dinner tonight similar to yours! I serve them with Ina Garten’s easy tartar sauce which elevates this basic dinner staple. Your’s looked scrumptious!
I love Ina’s recipes. I’ll have to try that with them.
I make them with a can of mackrael. they make pretty good sandwiches too on a hamburger bun.
I’m dressing in my looser clothes but not sloppy. I just have a few big shirts that I wear at home in mondal fabric. I think it is. No iron and very comfortable. Any pull on pants works for me right now. I look fine but just not dressed up to go anywhere. I’m scrubbing floors, cleaning closets, attending to pots in yard, so I defend myself that way.
I’m Praying for you and just want you to know how much you are appreciated.
Thank you so much, Eve. They would make a great sandwich:)
I learned to make fish cakes as a young girl from my Norwegian grandmother, so there’s nothing more comforting to me than that. I enjoy them with artichokes, and use the same aioli sauce for both: mayo, lots of lemon, garlic powder, pepper, a splash of olive oil and dried chives.
Aioli sauce is one of my favorites as are artichokes. Yum!
Hi Jennifer. Love. love, love your site and blog. I’m a bit slow in responding, but I am sending you prayers and positive vibes for great results on your health tests, etc. In the meantime, you look great, and I’m inspired to clean out my closets, reorganize, do some shopping, and cook (something I really don’t normally enjoy, sorry to say). Stay healthy and safe!
Thanks Nina! Stay well.
I used to do a salmon patty like that. I cook for six people every day, including two teenage boys. I have tried to do as much comfort food as possible because we all need some comfort here. Chicken noodle casserole, mac and cheese, pot roast. The boys like chili dog night. I have always been a “from scratch” kind of cook (as my daughter puts it) so we don’t have a lot of ready-made food. Who needs more sodium? However, one “easy” dish I have been making is sausages (Italian from the meat section) with potatoes, onions and bell peppers. Chop into largish chunks, toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning and bake for about an hour on a cookie sheet at 400 degrees. I find I’m remembering all kinds of dishes my grandmother used to make, so I’m trying to replicate some of those. It’s a lucky thing that I enjoy cooking!
You are busy!! This sounds wonderful.
Thanks for the recipe, looks great and I’ve never made fish cakes.
This is a link to a yummy recipes with chickpeas/garbanzos from Alexandra Stafford. I just would use a little less salt. I used canned beans and it freezes great if you have leftovers. She actually has a whole post about chickpeas…which I luckily seem to have a ton of!
https://alexandracooks.com/2016/01/28/leblebi-moroccan-chickpea-stew/
I have tons of chickpeas too so I need some new ideas for them. Thanks
Mmmm….looks good! I appreciate everything people have shared! I have little time to cook but while self-isolated I need to get three meals on the table. My husband helps but planning and organizing is my baby. I find myself dusting off old favourites that bring back good memories. They are easy and comforting and we all need that, right?
Thank you Jennifer for bringing all these wonderful ladies together. š
Thanks for being here Janet. Youāre one of the wonderful ladies.
HI Jennifer,
I missed posting yesterday. I’m so sorry you’re having to go through this, especially in this time where it’s hard to get appointments and scary to go out. I’m a 2 year lung cancer survivor and doing well, but had to miss my 6 mo CT because of Covid. It helps me to remember that I don’t know if the cancer has returned or not, so why not believe I’m doing great….it’s just as valid as the other way of thinking and I feel a lot better.
Radical Remission by Kelly Turner, is a wonderful book for anyone to read, but especially those who are dealing with cancer/the possibility. It’s a compilation of the 10 most common practices for hundreds of people who had a radical remission from their cancer…no surprise they are all things that any human should probably be doing. The book is quite inspirational though and an easy read.
One of my mantra’s when I’m trying to get through a tough patch…It’s a beautiful wonderful world ,I don’t want to miss one minute of it by worrying and looking ahead.
And this one, sorry I don’t know who wrote it āWorrying doesn’t empty tomorrow of its sorrow, it empties today of its strength. Worrying is carrying tomorrow’s load with today’s strength- carrying two days at once.
Keep breathing and doing all the wonderful things you already are. You have a huge community here who love you and are rooting for you. Hopefully you can feel us all hugging you. XO
Iām rooting for you too, Kate. You are so kind. Iām beyond thankful for your support. Iāll look for that book.
Might you consider a post on how you stopped smoking? It’s the hardest habit to break, and so many are unsuccessful. How did you do it? Thank you.
Itās terribly hard to quit. My girlfriend got stage four lung cancer and had to have her lung removed. I stopped on the spot. It was hard.
Once I got past one day of not smoking, I refused to start back up because that meant Iād enduring the torture of not smoking the day before, for nothing.
I was just stubborn.
Iām cooking a ton…latest innovation is turnip fries! Yep, you heard it. My hubby slices them into neat little sticks. I mix with olive oil then dust with spices, garlic powder, cinnamon, Italian spices, basil….whatever.
We roast in the oven at 400 degrees for about 15-20 minutes…stirring a time or two! Amazing and healthy!
Love your fish cakes! I often do it with salmon!
Fun column today and we love you!
Praying for the best.
Sounds yummy! Iāll try them. Thank you so much Shari xx
Yes, I am cooking lots these days…but then I always do…yesterday I even found a recipe on line for a facial mask. I have been completely out. Truth be told, I have not used a mask in some time, but I do follow a strict regiment for my face, except I was in the process of looking for the perfect mask. I got on line yesterday and researched for a recipe for a mask for my skin type. It worked wonderful, afterwards my face was just glowing and so soft.
2 tablespoons orange juice
1/2 teaspoon honey
3 tablespoon oatmeal oats
I guess in these times, we are getting more creative.
Thank you for all your posts…
That does sound great. I have all those ingredients too
You are such an inspiration. I was having a feel sorry for me day yesterday since I live alone, Iām a widow, I finally reminded myself to stop the pity party. I am healthy and blessed in many ways. I wish you good health.
Thanks, Merry. This is hard on everyone but I think it’s hardest on those who are alone. Hang in there, we are all in this together.xx
Hi, Jennifer. You are such an inspiration to me and Iām sure for many others. I admire your courage, resilience and positive outlook. By the way, you always look wonderful! I have no easy recipes to share yet. My husband does most of the cooking and I like to bake. Iāve tried to make the effort to dress a little nicer and keep up with my hair and a little makeup ( youāre my role model here, and besides my husband deserves the effort!) Take care of yourself. Weāre all pulling for you.
Thanks Kathy. Your so lucky that your husband loves to cook.
Roasting a chicken today so I can make a batch of chicken soup for the freezer- just in case. Not to be pessimistic but just prepared, I also prepared the guest room, and put aside some Gatorade and Tylenol in case one of us comes down with it.
Keeping you n my prayers, Jennifer.
Stay healthy, ladies! Weāll get through this!
Youāre smart!! It so important to be prepared. Hang in there.
Your fish cakes look tasty even though fish isnāt my favorite. We are trying to add more proteins in our diet….came across a recipe from the Pioneer Woman for black bean burgers – totally meatless. Tried it the other night and it was pretty darn good. If there is ever a meat shortage in the stores again weāll always be able to have a tasty burger.
I enjoy being home but the walls are starting to close-in. I have never been so excited to go to the grocery store or run a quick (but necessary) errand.
Praying for everyoneās health and safety.
Itās starting to get to me too! Stay safe
We, too, are cooking more and made this dish last night. It was quick, e asy, and delicious with frozen (and thawed) scallops from Aldi. https://damndelicious.net/2015/03/14/lemon-butter-scallops/
Just want to say that I appreciate your posts and relate so much to you as we are close in age and stature and are both fond of more classic styles. Iām also keeping you in my prayers as you wait for test results. The waiting can be the hardest part. Stay positive!
I love scallops! Thanks so much, Barb, I am really grateful for your prayers.
I made similar with a packet of salmon and some leftover mashed potatoes. Easy cheap meal, for sure. Another easy meal is small casserole dish, spread spaghetti sauce on bottom (leftover is good or store bought) a layer of frozen ravioli (cheese or beef), another layer of sauce, lots of Italian cheeses over that, another layer of ravioli topped with more sauce and finished with lots and lots of cheese. 350* for @ 45 minutes…..poke a ravioli and check for warmth….
Easy pantry and freezer meal. Filling and comforting
That sounds awesome!!! I love it. Thanks for sharing.
My thought are with you as I have had 34 surgeries so have sat on pins & needles frequently. We are strong stylish women and we will get thru whatever they throw our way! Actually making a roast turkey dinner as I had a turkey in the freezer, stale bread is pretty easy to come by these days in our house for stuffing. Mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus and homemade gravy. Will provide sandwiches, soup and casseroles.
Great idea for food ideas as we get in a rut.
Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers for peace and good news!
Bless you Deb. Thatās so stressful. Hang in there
That looks delicious. I will have to remember that if we have leftover fish.
Here is a great, easy recipe (you can use fresh shredded zucchini or frozen shredded zucchini). You can eat it hot, warm, cold.)
3 cups grated zucchini
4 beaten eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (I have used a mixture of whatever cheeses I have as well)
1 cup Bisquick (do they make GF Bisquick?)
1-2 chopped large onions (depends on how much you want)
Salt and Pepper
Mix all together and put in greased pie dish. (You can also make these in a muffin tin for individual servings). Bake 350 for an hour. Enjoy!
They do make GF Bisquick equivalent and this sounds amazing!!! Thanks
Oh yes, this is a recipe I can use, yours has an interesting mix of seasonings and herbs that I will try. Thank you! I too have been tempted by the sales, but the small flower shop where I worked had sadly closed, so I have to be more careful about buying. Been āshopping my closetā, still, I do need a dress?????
Jennifer, I love that striped dress you bought! I am so tempted to buy it too. I hope it meets your expectations and would love to see it on you.
Hereās one of my quick and easy recipes: take chicken breasts, place them in a baking dish, and slather with hummus (any type and flavor). Bake at 350 degrees until chicken is done. Serve with brown rice. The hummus adds a lot of flavor and creates a nice gravy too.
That sounds easy and delicious. Thanks Bea
Good morning Jennifer……I just ordered the pearl earrings! Once I saw the āaffordableā price (for me) I jumped right on and placed my order…..they are super cute!
We are cooking more these days too and yes it saves you money by eating at home.
Thank you and God Bless
I love mine. I hope you do too
Thank you Jennifer. Know that God has you in his hands he is always watching and protecting you so hang in there. We are praying for you.
Our daughter-in-law’s father is in the hospital. He had a stint put in for his leg, he’s diabetic. But, in doing this procedure he is now going in for a biopsy today for a couple of spots on his lung. So, please pray for Jim he needs prayers. It’s tough everywhere.
Your food looks great. I am going to eat more seafood, I love crab! Your squash looks great. I bought a couple of them to cook too. Its just my husband and I so we are eating our leftovers to. We are blessed to have a cupboard of food …. trying to get out and walk more! Eating too much! But, always getting dressed and using make up, following your plan.
Be safe!
Sending prayers for Jim! I hope he gets a good diagnosis. Hang in there
Jennifer, Iāve walked in your shoes when it comes to mammogram reports. My prayers are with you. God is in control and Heās got this too!
We love fish cakes at our house. Iām going to try your recipe.
Blessings to you and your family this Holy Season.
Thank you so much Priscilla.
Hi Jennifer, Isn’t it nice to know so many “blog strangers” are here for you – and such a fashionable group!! We are cooking and eating better than usual too. Instead of daily “what’s for dinner?” we are planning and shopping as little as possible and the meals have been really good. We need to stick to this once we get back to “normal”. Happy Thursday.
It is so amazing!! Thank you MP
One of our family favs i s a canned mix that I usually take when we got o the mountains,check in late afternoon and don’t want to go out to eat as we have jut arrived. Mix one can Rotel,Original, corn beef(any brand )a can mexicorn. Heat til desired temp. put over rice or toast, season with Parm ,if desired. I always keep ingredients on hand, great for hurricane weather if power goes out(can fix on grill if need be). Keep up the good posts, I am running out of ideas!
Thanks Susan! Hang in there
Good morning Jennifer….praying for you. Although I’m only dressing with a plan on my grocery store runs, I do try to apply a little makeup and sun screen on days I head out walking. I’m starting to look a bit more pulled together now. Thanks to your advice……
I will be preparing your fish cakes with leftovers, but using my gluten free bread crumbs. Actually more like cracker crumbs as they are not finely ground. Mmmmmm. Thank you!
I have made these with GF Panko crumbs and they work just as well
Looks like a great meal they I can try since I too, am gluten free! Thank you!