Fast Food

by Mark R. Vogel

A trend in America that is picking up speed is an increased interest on meals that can be made in a short amount of time. For us cooking buffs, that's shortening our time immersed in an activity we enjoy.

We like being in the kitchen. We find it relaxing. For us it is not just the end result, but the process as well. I love spending a Saturday or Sunday planning a menu, doing the food shopping, and preparing the meal. Ok, doing the dishes is the pits but I enjoy everything else.

For many people, cooking is just a means to an end. That's a shame because I believe there is something to be gained by the endeavor. The indulgence of our creativity, coupled with the moans of satisfaction from its recipients is personally gratifying.

But, cooking is not everyone's cup of tea. Moreover, even many cooking lovers don't have the time or the energy to prepare an elaborate meal by the end of the workday. Thus, the following recipes are for those of you who would rather starve than cook, or whose schedule is unyielding.

Turn on your broiler. Take a steak, pork or lamb chops, boneless chicken breasts, or your favorite piece of fish. Brush it with olive oil and then sprinkle both sides with your favorite jarred spices, salt and pepper.

Wrap your broiler pan with aluminum foil, (so you don't have to clean it afterwards), and place the meat in the center. Add a jar of mushrooms or cut up an onion or a potato and spread it around the meat.

The potato must be cut into small pieces to be done the same time as the meat but if you don't mind the skin you can save time by not peeling it. When the broiler is fully heated add the pan.

Flip the meat as soon as the first side is seared. If it is not too thick, it should take four or less minutes a side, especially for the fish, so keep an eye on it. While your main item is broiling, open up that bag of pre-made salad you bought.

You even have time to make a homemade vinaigrette. Simply take extra virgin olive oil and vinegar in a 3-1 ratio, add a minced shallot, dried herbs like oregano, basil, or parsley, and salt and pepper. Whisk it up and pour it over the salad. Voila! A healthy balanced meal in less than a half hour.