Cooking with Kelly: First DC meal

Before my Segway Tour yesterday, I wanted to whip up something in my new apartment that would keep me full for the tour. The tour itself was amazing and completely worth the money and time. You can check out my photos and odd DC facts here.

Anyhow, I make up these stuffed-filled turkey cutlets and lemon butter green beans in my modest kitchen last night. It may not be much to look at, but considering the circumstances, I was mighty pleased.

For the green beans:

1 pound trimmed green beans

1/2 tablespoon butter

Juice from half of one lemon

Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all the ingredients in a microwavable steaming bag (there are several brands now, including Glad SimplyCooking and Ziploc Zip'n Steam). The bag is not necessary, I just found that I get even cooking and easy clean up. Microwave as directed on the bag, or for about two minutes. Don't let it set too long or the beans will overcook and discolor. Top with freshly ground pepper, sea salt and a fresh lemon wedge.

For the turkey:

2 turkey breast cutlets

1/2 cup prepared stuffing, divided (I used a hearty herb mix)

1/2 tablespoon butter

2 tablespoons water

Combine 1/4 stuffing and the butter and water. Place cutlets in a plastic bag or in plastic wrap and pound to 1/4 inch thickness using a mallet or heavy soup can. Place a spoon full of the filling in the middle and wrap the cutlet around it. Roll the cutlet in remaining stuffing mixture. Place in electric skillet, skillet on a hot plate or in Xpress 101 and cook for three minutes per side or until cooked through.

I found my electric skillet utterly useless and transferred over to the Xpress 101. I liked this recipe because I could use minimal ingredients and end up with turkey that had a nice outer crust and moist stuffing inside. The steam bag allowed my beans to turn out tasty and not overcooked, while infusing them with the lemon butter flavor.

I'm going to work with what I have, but this is a start.