Lazy Bones

If you have been reading this blog for more than a week or two, you have no doubt figured out that I am a lazy cook. I like to eat well, and I love feeding My Beloved well, but I don't like to spend hours in the kitchen. I'd much rather be reading a book, walking the dog, or swimming. I do enjoy cooking once I get to the kitchen, and sometimes I'm downright inspired, but mostly I'm just happy to cook fresh food simply and quickly.

Last night's dinner, however, was a new high (or would you call it a low?) in my quest for easy meals. I figured out that if you stuff a whole Cornish hen with your favorite garlic croutons*, drizzle said fowl with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and throw it into a 350 degree F oven for close to an hour, it comes out quite delicious. The croutons inside the bird soften to form garlic-infused stuffing. The ones that hang out a little stay crisp and give extra texture. You can even sprinkle the crumbs from the bottom of the package over the skin for an artsy effect.

I'm not sure I'd serve this at a dinner party since I'd have to admit when the guests ask for the recipe just how ridiculously simple it was, but the flavors merit inclusion in a festive event and Cornish hens always seem a little special compared to full-size chickens.

If you have lazy bones, like I do, feel free to borrow this idea. People will think you worked hard.




*I used Semifreddi's garlic croutons - they add sesame, poppy, and fennel seeds for extra flavor, but any crouton made with good bread would work. Eschew the ones made from industrial bread.