I will not be receiving a tax refund this year.  In fact, I owe the IRS a good deal of money.  So as much as I'd love to splurge on a fancy feast or gather ingredients to cook up a delicious recipe for tax day; I will instead be dining an array of canned and pre-packaged foods to revel in what should be a continuing tradition of frugality.

There are  three courses on this  April 15th's menu of culinary indulgence and they all come courtesy of my mother.  You see, when she comes to visit she enjoys stocking me up with the finest in bulk Costco offerings.  She was last here two months ago and I'm just now running out of provisions.  Luckily, I have enough still to keep my belly full and my mind at peace, although my wallet continually screams for help despite the tight velcro seal that exists to keep such outbursts to a minimum.  

The following is a menu of the three courses I will be enjoying this thursday for dinner.  For those who feel like joining me in a similar meal, I've provided the ingredients and instructions.

First Course

Chicken Noodle Soup (serves one)

Ingredients: one can Health Choice Chicken Noodle Soup

Instructions: open can into appropriate-sized pan. Heat contents of pan until both soup and chicken are warm.  Pour into bowl. Season to taste.

 Second Course

Penne a la tomato sauce

Ingredients: Ronzoni whole wheat penne 8oz., Classico Tomato & Basil pasta sauce, government cheese.

Instructions: Pour water into pan and bring to a boil.  Pour in Ronzoni whole wheat penne 8oz..  Let pasta cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain water from pan with strainer. Pour Classico Tomato & Basil pasta sauce into pan on low heat and add pasta, stirring until the sauce and pasta have mixed thoroughly.  Place on dish for serving (serves one or two).

Third Course

Diced Pineapple Chunks

Ingredients: One can of Dole Diced Pineapple Chunks (in its own juice).

Instructions: Use can opener to open can and pour into serving bowl.  If so desired you can stick toothpicks into individual  pieces of pineapple or you can use a fork. If you have friends over you can do the former, but if you're just eating this alone, what's the point?

I hope everyone has an excellent tax day dinner.  I know I will.  Buon appetito!