Some meals don’t need measuring cups or timers—just a glance in the fridge, a little creativity, and a lot of flavor. This week’s dinners were all about using what we had on hand: from grilled sausage and veggies tossed onto bread, to skillet meals and build-your-own nights.
No recipe? No problem. (But if you’re looking for a little inspiration, I’ve got you.)
Griddle Potatoes with Sausage and Peppers
The perfect “throw-it-on-the-flat-top” kind of meal. Baby potatoes (tossed in olive oil and your favorite seasonings), sliced spicy Italian sausage, peppers, and onions, plus a little cheese melted over the potatoes for good measure.
This dish is crispy, smoky, and easy. You’ll have the perfect platter to serve for dinner in about 20 minutes.
Farmers Market French Bread Pizzas
Grilled sausage, charred veggies, homemade pan sauce, and microgreens on toasted Italian bread.
Need some inspiration? Check out my full post!
Chicken, Bacon, Ranch Smashburgers
Start with a pound of ground chicken, mix in some ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper, and form 3 to 4 meatballs.
They grill up in about 10 minutes and stay super juicy. Smash ’em flat, top with crispy bacon, cheese, and a drizzle of ranch, and serve on grilled ciabatta rolls.
(And trust me—smashing the patties is the chef’s kiss and a great stress release.)
Italian Chopped Salad
Iceberg lettuce, Roma tomatoes, pepperoncini, diced turkey, salami, provolone, and homemade croutons tossed in a tangy dressing (if you’re feeling fancy).
A full summer meal in a bowl that’s perfect for a meal on the deck. Bonus: you can use up all the produce you’ve overloaded on at your favorite market or farm stand (or so I hear, I’ve NEVER been guilty of that!)
Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies
Yes, there is a recipe But the real secret? Your favorite boxed brownie mix that makes you look like a kitchen hero.
This is one of the most-often requests I get for any summer gathering!
Not every dinner needs a step-by-step guide. Sometimes the best meals come from saying, “What can I make with what I’ve got?” Trust your instincts, play with flavors, and most of all: have fun.
What’s your go-to “I don’t need a recipe for dinner tonight”? Please share so we can give it a try!
Eat well friends!
Before you go—come join me at the table! Gather & Savor is my laid-back Substack where I share the recipes, stories, behind-the-scenes moments, and seasonal favorites that make life delicious. I’d love to have you there. Take a look and subscribe!
Michelle Cooks 
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