GARLIC MASHED AND MEATLOAF

I should have really labelled this post in a way that highlighted the delicious side dish of broccoli and kale in a yummy tomato sauce.  My father was savouring the meatloaf, saving it for last, but for me the broccoli was the hit.  My favorite times when my parents visit is supper time.  I really love eating together as a family, sitting around the table sharing food.  I am also very lucky that my mother sometimes cooks for us when they're here and so the food tastes even better when someone else is making it!  Tonight though, I insisted on making supper for her because she rarely gets to enjoy other people cooking for her.

TOMATO SMOTHERED BROCCOLI AND KALE

1 head organic broccoli, stems peeled and cut into four pieces and floretted

3 large handfuls organic young kale

5 cloves organic garlic, peeled and smashed

1/2 can organic crushed tomatoes

e.v olive oil

sea salt and pepper

Method:  Heat a saucepan over medium hight heat, stir in a drizzle of olive oil, some sea salt and cook the tomatoes for about 15 minutes over medium low heat until they thicken.  Bring a pot of lightly salted water to boil.  When ready, toss in the broccoli and cook for a couple of minutes.  Remove with a slotted spoon and then drop the kale into the hot water.  Cook for about 1 minute then set aside with the broccoli.  Heat another 3 Tbsp of olive oil in a non stick skillet.  When hot add the smashed garlic and then fry the broccoli and kale for 3 minutes.  Dribble in the tomato sauce, 3 Tbsp of water, cover and reduce heat and cook for about 5-10 minutes.  Season to taste with salt and pepper.

MEATLOAF

2 pounds organic ground beef

3 organic green onions, sliced

2 organic eggs, lightly beaten

1/2 cup organic fresh whole wheat breadcrumbs

1/4 cup organic milk

5 cloves organic garlic, smashed and minced

2 Tbsp worcestershire sauce

dash of hot sauce

sea salt and pepper

Method:  In a large mixing bowl soak the breadcrumbs in the milk and let sit for 5 minutes.  Add the ground beef and the rest of the ingredients, stir gently to combine.  Preheat oven to 375*.  Shape the meat into a loaf in the centre of a cast iron skillet.  Bake in oven for about 30-45 minutes, or until it starts to brown and is not red in the middle.