Dressed Up Mac & Cheese

This is really a very short story that repeats itself almost every week.

We are about to run out of everything in the fridge and pantry. Kids are hungry and running around the kitchen looking for snacks. Meal planning didn't go so well during these constant rainy days and improvisation is needed.

Here's an emergency exit to avoid a visit to the drive-through. It was an instant success for the kids — with second helpings and nothing left in the bowls.

Mac and Cheese with Black Forest Ham and Zucchini

This time it was zucchini, but sometimes I use other greens to add nutrition to mac and cheese, like tiny bits of broccoli florets. Smoked turkey ham is also a great option.

2 individual packets Organic Microwave Mac'n Cheese (Trader Joe's or Annie's) prepared as instructed (or, if you're inspired and have time, go for a traditional recipe of mac and cheese) plus 1/4 cup of water
3 teaspoons olive oil
4 slices Black Forest ham, cut in squares
1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan style cheese

Stir-fry ham and zucchini in olive oil. Mix with prepared mac and cheese and stir well. Add grated cheese and wait to melt. Let it stand for 5 minutes and serve.