Growing up I loved Oreos. I do not use the word loved lightly either. My madre always kept them in a pink glass jar on the very top shelf in the cabinet. The jar was exactly large enough to hold an entire package of Oreos minus one, because obviously you must eat one while unpacking them. My mother’s attempt to hide my beloved Oreos only turned me into kitchen-climbing-ninja-monkey. I’m a total pro at scaling cabinets, pantries, the dairy case at the grocery store… You name it, my petite stature does not keep me away from my goodies!
Of course, that was until one day I sank about 12 Oreos in a glass of milk and ate myself sick. My sweet, crumbly, chocolatey cookies never quite had the same appeal. Eventually the longing for Oreos went away almost completely. Every now and then I like to enjoy a few crumbled Oreos on my coffee gelato, but that’s about as far as it goes.
It seems that in my life in general I have this same over indulgence issue. I get super excited about a new food or project, but then I burn out fast. I think it’s just my personality, to go all in. Then I wind up bored, restless and ready for the next big thing. As I get older, I find this happening less and less. I still get super excited, but I’m better at gauging my expectations and knowing what will ultimately leave me satisfied time and time again.
And what leaves me satisfied time and time again? Greek food. It’s true. It’s so good, healthy, filling and brings in some unique, fresh flavors. After a week hiatus , I was eager to get back in the kitchen, my happy place. And what better welcome back meal than a semi-homemade gyro.
Best thing about this recipe, it’s quick, healthy and a lot of the ingredients can be bought fresh, but already prepared. This is perfect for those of you wanting to try your hand at a simple weeknight meal.
For this recipe, you’ll need:
1 1/2 lbs thinly cut beef or lamb
Naan
Marinated kalamata olives and feta (in the fine cheese case)
Cucumber
Red onion
Hummus
1 teaspoon of each: kosher salt, ground mustard, cayenne, coriander
1/4 teaspoon all spice
Whisk dry spices together.
Massage the spices evenly into all sides of the meat.
Heat in a skillet over medium high heat.
Cook 2-3 minutes on each side. Since the meat is thin, it should cook quickly.
At an angle, thinly slice the meat into strips.
Load up the naan with your favorite hummus , then stack on the beef, cucumber, onions, olives and feta.
Now dig into your hearty Greek gyro that took you about 20 minutes start to finish to make!
Enjoy!
Natalie – I enjoy your humorous yet insightful self reflections!