Life is Complex, Make Dinner Simple

By Marilyn Hunter

At the end of a busy day, the last thing I need is more work. And let’s face it, dinner often feels like work. When I’m feeling uninspired and on the verge of ordering takeout, I make a sandwich. But not just any sandwich, a special dinner-worthy sandwich of ham and Swiss dipped in egg wash and grilled.

If you can manage making grilled cheese, even when you’re tired, you can handle the French version with a fancy name… Croque Monsieur. It’s adored by everyone in my family. We eat the Croque with a simple salad for a delicious bistro-style meal.

Easy Croque Monsieur

2 slices crusty artisan bread
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
2 slices Swiss, Gruyère, or any other cheese you have on hand
2 slices deli ham
1 egg
1 tablespoon milk
Salt and pepper to taste
2 teaspoons butter

Spread a little bit of Dijon mustard on each slice of bread. Assemble sandwich in this order: layer one slice of bread mustard side up, top with a slice of cheese, the two slices of deli ham and one more slice of cheese and top with the remaining slice of bread, mustard side down.

Whisk together egg, milk, salt and pepper in a shallow bowl and set aside.

Heat a sauté pan over medium heat. Melt the butter in the pan. While the butter is melting, carefully dip each side of the sandwich in the egg mixture and place in the warm sauté pan.
Cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until golden brown. Flip the sandwiches and grill for another 2 to 3 minutes. Cut sandwich in half and serve immediately.  Makes 1 serving.

Keep dinner simple because when the day is done, enjoying your time together around the table or taking a walk, sharing stories from the day is all that really matters.

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