Introducing Mel’s Simple Weeknight Menus eCookbook!
Wow. It’s an exciting week, and I think it’s only going to get better (but don’t worry, I can only handle so much excitement, so next week, we’ll return to our regularly scheduled programming of delicious recipes – this week and this week only is dedicated to Mentors and giving back!).
First of all, you and your generosity completely blew me (and Mentors) away yesterday as you gave above and beyond my donation goal to benefit the beautiful people of Ghana! You can read more about it here; honestly, I just found myself in tears all day yesterday as I kept reading your comments and emails and seeing that number rise. I met these women. I saw the changes that had come in their lives – going from living on 75 cents a day to now being successful businesswomen, providing for their families, and being able to send their children and grandchildren to school. It’s hard to explain my emotions; I am so humbled that you helped be part of this movement. Good things will happen! I can’t wait to hear how your donations changed a life (many lives!). The latest total on 8/30 was $30,230, more than TRIPLING the initial goal! You. Are. Awesome. I really don’t even know what to say (actually, I do: thank you!).
Secondly, let’s talk about today! This project has been years in the making and I’m so excited to finally introduce my Simple Weeknight Menus eCookbook. A long, long time ago, I decided I wanted to write an eCookbook. So…
I started an eCookbook.
I got busy.
I started again.
I got lazy (another word for busy? maybe, maybe not).
I started again and actually began to make a little headway.
And then I went to Ghana.
And a fire was lit in my soul. I knew right then, walking in a tiny village in Ghana, that I was going to finish this eCookbook and sell it to benefit Mentors. And I’m not going to lie, I’m more than just a little bit happy that you get something pretty stellar out of the deal.
100% of the profits for this eCookbook will go to Mentors to benefit Ghana!
This eCookbook, Simple Weeknight Dinner Menus, has been such a labor of love. I have worked hours and hours and hours (when I really didn’t have extra hours and hours and hours) to make sure this eCookbook is flawless and helpful and perfect and yummy.
These aren’t just ok recipes. Not decent recipes. They are amazing recipes. They’ve been triple tested (and sometimes tested upwards of 8 or 9 times) in order to make sure they are foolproof. Plus, 100% of these recipes are brand, spankin’ new, which means, they aren’t recipes I’ve pulled out of my blog archives or recipes I’ve already posted.
This book is filled with premium recipes you won’t find anywhere else!
And you guys, I don’t want to brag, but these recipes are hands down some of the best recipes I have ever made. I’m so excited to share them with you!
Quite, simply this eCookbook was tailored to make your life simple! Each of the easy but delectable main dish meals are paired with the perfect side dish. No thinking required. They are even located right next to each other in the cookbook so you can make the One Pot Tomato Basil Pasta and already know that those Skillet Lemon Green Beans with Garlic are going to appear (magically, ha!) right alongside.
You know I know that I talk about menu planning all the time and so it’s no surprise that this first eCookbook has a menu planning vibe to it. The book is filled with over 30 recipes for main dish and side dish recipes plus a bonus dessert section that cannot be missed!
Black and White Printable Download
{because I love my mom and honor all her requests, I’ve included this printable version for those that would rather have a hard copy at their fingertips and in their recipe binders!}
ePub Download
{for viewing in iBooks or other apps}
PDF Download
{for viewing in a browser; works on all tablets, desktops, smart phones, etc – this is the best and most versatile version, IMO}
*Please note that after you purchase the book, you’ll have the option to “read” or “download” any or all of the above formats. I highly encourage you to use the “download” option in order to view the book correctly; this will also allow the book to be easily accessible on your device or computer later.*
I can’t say it enough, but thank you for being here. If I didn’t have The Best Readers in the Whole Wide World, I wouldn’t still be blogging. Your support and confidence in me has given me more strength than I can describe, especially your response to yesterday’s post and to other personal situations I’ve posted about before. I have a deep desire to give back for all the blessings I’ve received through blogging. This eCookbook, benefitting Mentors International, is yet another way I can do that while still being true, because at the end of the day, what I want most is to continue providing you with the best recipes on the internet.
I would be extremely selfish and remiss if I didn’t give a huge, heartfelt, special thanks to my Aunt Marilyn, who triple-tested these recipes for me after I experimented, developed, and tested them myself – and also to Catherine P., a sweet friend who continues to amaze me with her graphic design talent and InDesign skillz. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
I love your guts and I hope you love this book! I can’t wait to hear what you think after you make the recipes.
I don’t comment much, but I use your recipes on a regular basis and when I’m looking for a recipe you are my go to girl. ๐ I am so excited to try out the recipes in your ebook! I always need quick recipes during soccer season. I loved reading about your trip to Ghana. I went to Ethiopia last year and it was eye opening, amazing, heart breaking, and wonderful. I was surprised how quickly I grew to love the people there. Mentors looks like an amazing program and I’m happy your little community here has been so generous to help them. Thanks for all you do! You are a rock star!
I’m so happy, too, Jen. Thanks for your comment!
You are amazing! I have loved your recipes for years and you are always the first place I go to when I need a good recipe. I just ordered your eCookbook and I can’t wait to try some of the recipes. Thank you for all the time you take in perfecting the perfect recipe. I loved reading about your organization and I am glad that I can donate but also get a wonderful cookbook. You are a great example!! Love from Oregon
Thank you, Colleen!
This is perfect Mel!! I was just thinking this week, “I wish I had a cookbook from Mels Kitchen cafรฉ..” Tah dah! I seriously would buy a book with all your recipes. I’ve made your chocolate zucchini cake twice this week already!!
I’m a huge fan of microloans and I’m so excited for you promoting them and raising money!!! I love all you are doing!! Thank you! Thank you!
I wish I had a pan of that chocolate zucchini cake right now! Thank you for letting me know you enjoy the recipes. ๐
Thank you so much, Mel! I have been reading your blog for 8 years now and I can say without hesitation that you have changed my life! I follow several cooking blogs which are all fantastic but yours is hands-down my very favorite. As cheesy as it sounds, I feel like you are a friend! I listened to your “Extraordinary Moms” podcast a couple of days ago and it made me love you even more! I admire you as a maker of kitchen rockstars, mother, and all-around kind-hearted person. Thanks for your shining example. Much love from a long time reader in Maine.
Well, that was the nicest comment! Thank you so much! I don’t think I’m quite as nice as you think in real life (just ask my kids!) but I’m glad I can keep that illusion alive via the internet. ๐
You are beyond amazing, my friend. I just bought an eCookbook for me and am buying one for my daughter right after this.
Mentors International seems to be such a great organization and I’ve been looking for a purpose in this area. So thanks for pointing me in the right direction.
I cannot wait to try these recipes. The pictures in the post have my mouth watering!
God bless you, Mel xo
Thank you, Sally! We’ll have to get together (finally!) one of these days and figure out how we can work together to help Mentors. I just love them.
Just wondering before I buy, how many days of menus are contained? All I see in the description is 30 recipes. What is the breakdown of main dishes, sides & desserts? Thanks!
Hi Patty – there are 14 main dishes, 14 side dishes and 6 bonus desserts (great question, I’ll update the post!).
Your cookbook is gorgeous, Mel!! I’m so excited to make the pulled pork in my instant pot tomorrow! You are a rockstar!!
Let me know what you think, Kelsey!
Made the pulled pork and LOVED it! So easy in the instant pot and the tangy BBQ sauce is amazing! I also made the coleslaw and loved that too. I’m with ya on piling it all on your sandwich with the meat!
I was so excited to see this and bought my copy this morning! I am one that likes to have a printed version, but I cannot get the .PDF to print (either the black & white or color version). I have never had a problem printing .PDFs before – we’ve tried printing just single pages and always get an error on the printer (we have a fairly new laser printer and print a lot of PDFs). I might have to see if I can find a different printer to try, but I just wondered if you’d had anyone else with printing problems? Can’t wait to try the recipes!
Hi Gayle – sorry to hear that. Are you viewing the book from the “read” button or the “download” button? That will make a difference. Also, are you printing from a desktop or laptop or a mobile device? Let me know and I can help troubleshoot. It prints great from my end so I know we can get it to work!
We downloaded and saved the PDF and tried printing from two different desktops (our printer is on our home network). My husband was finally able to get it to print for me by converting the pages to .TIF files – still no idea why the PDF wouldn’t print but I’m glad to have a hard copy!
Glad it worked, Gayle – but I’m sorry you had to go to that much work! I wonder if it has something to do with the printer you are using? I just went to retest it on my computer and it printed perfectly but I’d love to help you troubleshoot if you still need it. ๐
We found the printer setting we needed to change! (Under Printer Settings, Advanced, Print Data Optimization change from “Auto” to “Optimize for Text and Vector”). Now I am able to print the .PDF — just putting this here in case anyone else has the same issue. ๐
Thanks for sharing your story and for sharing this opportunity to help AND for making it so easy for us readers to be help out in a small way! The ebook is beautiful and I can’t wait to try these recipes out! And thank your mom for wanting the black and white printable download, super convient to print and add to my binder! Again, thanks for your heart in doing all this and making it so easy for us to be a part of. And thanks for your amazing recipes – they are staples in our kitchen!
Thank you, Rachel!
What a labor of love! I can’t wait to make ALL the recipes (well, with the exception of the peas. . . just not a fan of them, never have been, probably never will be ). You truly inspire me Mel! You are so generous and have the biggest heart ever! Thank you for all your hard work and for continually sharing amazing recipes. Maybe (just maybe), one day my little blog can be amazing like yours. Thank you again, you truly rock girl!!
Your blog IS amazing, Jodi! I look up to you in so many ways. Thanks for your kindness! (And it’s ok that you don’t like peas, I still love ya!)
YAY…..I bought the book and love it – good job!
One tiny snafu – the recipe Simple Microwave Peas with Butter and Garlic makes no mention of garlic in the ingredients or instructions.
Yep, I caught that one early on today (sorry about that!). If you click the “download” button again in your email confirmation (that you received after you bought), the recipe is updated.
Mel, you are amazing – your food, your website, your ebook, and your heart! Thank you!! You’re on a first-name basis in our family. ๐ I bought and printed the book immediately, but I haven’t had a chance to read it because I’m working- but it’s the first thing I’ll do when I get home today!
Thanks Michelle – I hope you love it!
So just figuring out my meal planning for next week, and the Simple microwave peas with butter and garlic don’t actually have garlic in the recipe? I am guessing it is a typo.
Sorry about that, Amanda! I caught that early on today and have already updated the ebook. If you go to the email confirmation you received after you purchased and click the “download” button again, you’ll get the updated book with the garlic in the recipe (it’s just 1 clove garlic, finely minced).
I’m really excited for this book! I love your web site (though I don’t comment) you’re talented and make me look like an amazing cook thanks for having my back. Your recipes have never failed me!
Thank you, Brenda! I hope you love it!
First of all…I think you are the best! 2nd of all, I bought the ebook and would LOVE to donate more to Mentors but when I go to donate there isn’t that green security green lock in the web browser (do you know what I’m talking about) that shows that the website is safe. I totally believe it is a legit and awesome program…but I’m always hesitant to enter my credit card info without that security proof. If mentors changed that I’m all in!
Yep, I totally know what you mean. They are updating their site to reflect that but the way I always check to know if it is secure is if there is an httpS: at the beginning of the web address. If so, it’s a secure site. I don’t know if that gives you peace of mind but I thought I’d let you know. Thanks for your willingness!
I bought a copy and the recipes look amazing! I want to make them all tonight – it will be hard to choose which one to try first. Thanks for the recipes and the chance to help others!
I’m so happy you love the first glance through! Hopefully you’ll love the recipes even more!
Thank you so much Mel for giving all your readers/loyal fans an opportunity to help out and make a difference in the lives of others in such a simple way. God bless you.
Thank you, Lori!
Love this! I bought the cookbook and it was perfect timing! I was about to do my weekly meal planning and so many of these fit stuff that my family eats.. Great recipes and beautiful pictures
And really, really neat connection–Mark Petersen–who works with Mentor’s International (I saw him in one of your pictures) is my husband’s uncle. Small world! ๐
That IS a small world! How fun!
Just bought this for my sisters for their birthdays. SOOOOOO excited!!!!! I’m going to save it for myself as a special upcoming present for my husband to buy for me ๐
I love that idea!
Hi Mel, Here is my question. Very basic, but I have the most minimal of computer skills.
I want to buy your book. I will only be able to save it in my inbox of my IPad, which is my only device. I do not have a printer. That said; what are the buttons I need to click on to make that happen? Thanks, Mimi
Hi Mimi – so when you purchase the eCookbook, you’ll automatically receive an email to your inbox with the links to download the book. If you keep that email in your inbox, you can go to it at anytime and hit “download” for the file you want (sounds like you’ll want to use the PDF file). If you have other questions, let me know!
Can you give me a rough estimate on how many recipes have nuts in them? I have a kid with a big allergy and I don’t want to only be able to use a handful of the recipes. just curious…
Oh, good question, Sallie. One main dish has cashews and two desserts have peanut butter. Does that help?
I agree. When I saw cashews on the cover, my food hackles went up. Unfortunately cashew allergies are lethal ๐
Hey Katie, sorry to hear you deal with a cashew/nut allergy. I didn’t intend to upset anyone with the cover of my book – it’s the only main dish or side dish recipe using nuts, in case that helps ease your mind.
A “Mel’s” recipe has been served in our house at least weekly (or more!) for the past 6+ years, I knew I’d never question the opportunity to purchase a cookbook from you. Including it with a wonderful cause is just awesome! Thank you!
So happy you are loving the recipes, Ann – thank you!
I’m so excited for this! Love all your recipes, they never fail (a rarity in this pinterest world where things sound good but don’t turn out). Thanks for all your hard work!
Thank you!
So, so glad you offered the PDF version. Like your mom, I wanted to be able to print it. It’s beautiful and already in my kitchen and ready to use immediately! Thank you!
Love that! Just make a note that the simple microwave peas recipe is missing the 1 clove garlic, finely minced from the ingredients. Other than that, you should be good to go! ๐
Just bought it. I love your food, microloan programs, and that nativity, so $10 is basically the best deal ever. You’re awesome
Yay!
I just bought your e-cookbook… knew I’d love it and would have gotten it anyway but knowing that it benefits Mentors is icing on the cake! I’ve already spotted several recipes I want to try right away. Mel, your blog is a top favorite of mine and your recipes, advice, and recommendations are always right on. Thank you for all you do!!!
That means so much to me. Thank you, Beth!
Just downloaded cookbook and it is gorgeous and going to be delicious!! I can’t imagine how much work that took. I put together a little one page family contract and it took me days! Your recipes, heart, humility, love and service for others is really so moving and encouraging!
You are so nice, Leslie. I definitely haven’t been sleeping as much as I would like but I also had the help of my friend who is an amazing graphic designer. That helps! ๐
Just ordered this and it looks amazing, I have been waiting for a cookbook from you for the last eight years! (Definitely a longtime loyal reader!) You are amazing, and I love how heartfelt and sincere you are. What an awesome thing to be a part of, helping people through the Mentors program. Thanks for making a difference, for them AND for us.
Thanks, Aubrie! Maybe someday it will be an actual real, live cookbook but for now I’m pretty happy with this eCookbook (but I really want a nap). ๐
Mel! First, congratulations! I know how much work goes into book making, and I’m just beyond moved at your decision. Second, thank you for ALL you do. That is all.
You are so sweet, Ellen. Thank you!
Just bought it! Yay! Thank you!!! I just had the thought…. I seriously think you could sell an old worn out shoe… and we’ll all buy one because we love you, your blog, and all the hard work you do for your readers!! ๐
I LOVED the post about Ghana and Mentors!! I lived in Cape Verde, West Africa as a missionary. I’ve never met a more loving people!! They have nothing but are so loving and friendly!! A while ago I was grumbling to myself about doing laundry (moving clothes from the washing machine to the dryer! EASY!) when I remembered the 6 months I spent scrubbing my clothes in Africa on a washboard and hanging to dry.. and all the millions of people who do that all day, everyday, their entire lives. I VOWED to NEVER complain about the laundry again! ๐
Keep up the tremendous work you do! You’ve been given a platform and you are using it wonderfully!!!
Haha! Well, the worn out shoe would be a stretch. I hope you know I’d never ask that of you! ๐ Thank you for your comment…my perspective definitely shifted after traveling to Ghana; I can’t imagine how my life would be changed if I had lived in Africa like you did. Amazing!
I thought about my comment later yesterday, and realized that it might come across negative! I didn’t intend that at all! What I meant is that you have a very loyal readership who would support you in any endeavor because you help us all so much in our everyday lives in the kitchen!! ๐ I read through your cookbook and it is AWESOME!!! Thank you! Getting a cookbook and helping microloans is definitely a win-win!! You are very generous to donate all your time and earnings to help those in need!!
Oh goodness, Tanya – I didn’t catch any negativity at all! Please don’t worry! ๐
I bought a copy as well – and the recipes look amazing! I want to make all of them today. Thanks for this cookbook and the opportunity to help others.
Thank YOU, Karina!
Congratulations on the eCookbook! Just picked up my copy and can’t wait to try it out! That’s awesome what you are doing for the people of Ghana. Amazing will happen for them!
Thank you, Nathan!
WOW! GORGEOUS BOOK! I love it!!
No hesitation buying this cookbook at all. I have followed you for YEARS and have never made one of your dishes we didn’t like! My youngest brother served his mission in Ghana a handful of years ago and it was amazing…those people are choice. What a great experience you had! Thanks for all your hard work. I’m excited for the new recipes! ๐
Thank you, Marne! I have loved your comments and support over the years.
So excited for the book. I’ve been reading through quickly and salivating. One quick question – on the recipe of peas with garlic and butter, there is no garlic listed in the recipe. How much should I add? Thank you!
I just noticed this and I’m so sorry about that error! Even going over it with a fine-toothed comb, it was missed. I’m updating the file now so within the hour you should be able to download an updated copy (for free, of course), but until then, it’s just 1 clove of garlic, finely minced.
I was just about to donate on your other post when I saw this one and thought, hey why not get a super duper recipe book and donate :). My mother in law runs a program in Kenya called KUEF that my kids (and I) do a bake sale for every year. All the proceeds go towards getting clothing and food to children and providing sanitary pad to girls so they don’t have to drop out of school because they have their period (this specific program is called “educating girls every day, pwriod”). If you need another good cause to donate to (or make some cookies for) let us know ๐
I love this, Malinda! Someone else (Rachel) left a comment similar to this yesterday about her daughter doing a bake sale and raising money for a fundraiser in Kenya, I believe. That whole philosophy of supporting the women and girls who have to drop out of school because of their monthly periods is awesome. Simply awesome. I love that so much. We saw the Days for Girls charity in action when we were in Ghana and it is life-changing, too.
I just bought this because you are amazing and I am excited to make every single recipe in this. I skimmed through the whole thing and they look amazing. I came back here to comment and noticed your giveaway–wow!! That is so beautiful. Thanks for all you do for us!
I’m glad you came back to the post, Bonnie – I spaced putting the giveaway part on there this morning and I’m glad you saw it!
Well this was a no-brainer! A Mel cookbook with new recipes that benefits Mentors International? Yes please! Thank you just doesn’t seem adequate. Thank you for all of the amazing recipes that have truly blessed my life, for your incredible example and for your inspiring and selfless work with Mentors International. You bless countless lives Mel!
Oh, thanks, Aubrey! You are so sweet. I hope this can make a difference (and plus, the recipes are super rad – like seriously the best).
What a treasure! Thanks, Mel! My family (and extended family) and I love your stuff! I never have to fear making a brand new recipe for company if it’s one of yours. Your recipes are clear and easy to follow and I love the non-fussy ingredient element. It’s real food but it’s really easy. And soooo delicious! You are amazing. The end.
Haha, thank you, Kim!
Hi, Mel! U look so happy in the photo w u & your husband surrounded by the seven lovely ladies. I just bought the e-cookbook. It was very easy…I was able to download it, & access it very easily, by way of acrobat reader. (using my limited computer skills on my very old laptop.) I cried yesterday seeing your beautiful post. Thank you for bringing us all together to give to people who need it most.
I’m so happy that it was easy to download and view, Lauren! I’ve been anxious all day because I want the whole process to be easy and seamless for everyone. Thanks for taking the time to let me know!
Well, you are officially my hero! I am so excited about Mentors International and the changes it is making in so many lives! I just bought my copy and shared your whole story on facebook. You are inspiring!
Thank you, Katie! I hope you love the book!
Yes!! I have been waiting for this day. It is lovely. Making dreams come true this week! Thanks, Mel!
Haha, thanks, Angela! I feel like my dreams are coming true, too…never thought I’d actually get this eCookbook out in front of anyone.
This is amazing! So, excited to finally have a Mel cookbook, as I love your blog and all your recipes! But to be able to help such a life changing cause at the same time is so great! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!
Thank you, Lisa!
I just have so much h to say about this. You are a blessing to those women and thank you for letting us help too. I don’t know how you manage it all but you’re an inspiration! And I’m not just saying that so you’ll come visit Julianne and Ryan already so we can be bffs. Lol excited to get these and can I download and have them printed for gifts too? Xo ps props to Marilyn for being awesome. I have an aweskme aunt Jennie too who always has my back.
I WILL come visit someday if it’s the last thing I do (and it very well may be…I hope you live there a long time).
YAY!! Congratulations Mel and thank you for the opportunity to spread love and joy to the people of Ghana thru Mentors. You are truly amazing!
Thank you, Debbie!
I have my copy and it is BEAUTIFUL – had to shout that – truly. I love the Notes graphic and content on that graphic – so easy to see and take note of ๐
I downloaded the PDF and all works wonderfully well: easy to navigate.
I keep my recipes on a cloud server so I can find them on my phone/tablet/laptop and this works very well for that. Super-duper Mel – so glad you went this way
That makes me so happy that you love the look and feel of the book, Liz. Thank you!
Liz
How do you get your recipes on the cloud?
Got it! Very nice to be able to support your work, as I’ve been following your blog for a long time
I don’t comment often, but I’m always around…. ๐
Thank you, Sally!
Every recipe you’ve ever posted has been fantastic, so this was a no-brainer. I’m happy to play a small part in supporting all that you do. Thanks for all of your hard work!
Thanks, Julie – I hope you love all the recipes!
Just bought it. As an FYI, when you finish entering payment info, it first asks if you want to “read” or “view”. I chose “read”, and then it brought me to the page where I could “download”, or “read”, or whatever (so I chose download).
So excited to check it out, Mel! Congrats on adding “author” to your growing resume!
Thank you, Alicia!