I've always believed you make time for what's important. Lately, I think I've been making too much time for a lot of things that aren't important on a general scale. I also hate missing out on fun! So, my default answer when someone asks me to do something is yes. However, sometimes everyone just needs a little time to relax and not have any plans! At least, I do. I have a secret introvert side to me, and especially because my job requires a LOT of interaction (which I mostly really enjoy), I need that alone time to read, watch a movie, or experiment in the kitchen.

So, my new goal is to pick one. For example, today we're having a bbq with a few friends at our house. Instead of trying to get up super early to get the meat, make the rub, clean my house, cook a few things, do laundry, go to the gym, go for an afternoon shopping trip, and then have a party at my home -- I cut half of that out and am focused on the party and working on picking up around the house. 

On that same line, one of the things I love most about Blue Apron is how simple it is to make homemade healthy meals. Below is one of my recent favorites and definitely something I plan to make again! It was one where Jason and I both cleaned our plates and looked at the other person to see if there was any more left even though realistically, we were plenty full :)

Ginger Basil Chicken and Rice (by: Blue Apron)

• 10 Ounces Chopped Chicken Thighs
• ½ Cup Jasmine Rice
• 3 Cloves Garlic
• 2 Scallions
• 1 Japanese Eggplant 
• ¼ Pound Tinkerbell Peppers
• 1 Large Bunch Thai Basil
• 2 Tablespoons Ponzu Sauce
• 1 1-Inch Piece Ginger
• ¼ Cup Coconut Milk Powder
• ¼ Cup Sweet Chili Sauce

1. Wash and dry the fresh produce. Peel and mince the garlic and ginger. Cut off and discard the root ends of the scallions; thinly slice the scallions, separating the white bottoms and green tops. Cut off and discard the stem end of the eggplant; cut the eggplant into 1-inch-thick rounds on an angle. Cut out and discard the stems, ribs and seeds of the tinkerbell peppers; cut into ¼-inch-thick rings. Pick the Thai basil leaves off the stems; discard the stems. In a bowl, whisk together the coconut milk powder and ¼ cup of water.

2. In a small pot, combine the rice, coconut milk mixture, a big pinch of salt and¾ cup of water. Heat to boiling on high. Once boiling, cover and reduce the heat to low. Simmer 11 to 13 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove from heat and fluff the coconut rice with a fork. Set aside in a warm place.

3. While the rice cooks, in a large pan, heat 2 teaspoons of oil on medium-high until hot. Add the eggplant in a single, even layer; season with salt and pepper. Cook, flipping occasionally, 4 to 6 minutes, or until softened and browned. Transfer to a plate.

4. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels; season with salt and pepper. In the pan used to cook the eggplant, heat 2 teaspoons of oil on medium-high until hot. Add the seasoned chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, 5 to 7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Add the garlic, ginger, white bottoms of the scallions and tinkerbell peppers; season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, 1 to 2 minutes, or until fragrant.

5. To the pan of chicken and vegetables, add the cooked eggplant, sweet chili sauce, ponzu sauce, 1 tablespoon of water, half the Thai basil (tearing the leaves just before adding) and half the green tops of the scallions. Cook, stirring occasionally, 1 to 2 minutes, or until thoroughly combined and the liquid is slightly reduced in volume; remove from heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Divide the coconut rice and finished stir-fry between 2 dishes. Garnish with theremaining Thai basil and green tops of the scallions. Enjoy!