Recipe: Stack-A-Meal

My husband, Brian, first made this dish for me when we were in college. I took one look at it and went, “What in the world is this?” It seemed like such an odd combination of ingredients.

And yet, it is sooooo good. It’s one of my favorite things to have for supper. Even just thinking about it makes my mouth water. Let me know if you’re ever brave enough to try it!

Stack-A-Meal

1-1/2 cups white rice + water for cooking

1/2 lb. ground beef (you can omit if you’re a vegetarian)

1 25.6-ounce jar spaghetti sauce

1 cup frozen peas + water for cooking

1/2 cup green olives, sliced

Shredded cheddar cheese (however much you like)

To prepare:

1.

Bring rice and 3 cups water to a boil in covered saucepan, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat and simmer for about 12 minutes, or until liquid is no longer visible. Remove from heat and fluff with fork. Keep covered until ready to serve.

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2.

Brown ground beef in skillet over medium heat. Drain grease. Add spaghetti sauce and bring to a simmer. (You may add extra herbs and spices, such as oregano, anise, or whatever you like.)

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3.

To cook the peas, put them in a saucepan with a little water. Cover and bring to a boil over high heat. Allow to boil for just a minute or two—you want them to stay bright green, not turn to mush.

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4.

Don’t forget to chop the olives!

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5.

Now make individual plates, layering the ingredients as follows: cooked rice, spaghetti sauce, peas, shredded cheddar, chopped olives.

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6.

Serve and enjoy!