We had a free Starz preview this weekend from Directv and I finally watched “Julie and Julia”. I had NO idea that the movie was based on a real blogger’s project and how it related to Mrs. Child. The movie is cute and brought me back to the day I first watched Julia Child’s show The French Chef on TV. Not being familiar with the cooking icon, I totally thought it was a comedy cooking show. Recently, I came across Julia Child unique ‘culinary action’ again on The Cooking Channel. I enjoyed every minute of it.

I decided that this week I’ll come up with a Julia Child inspired menu. I had a great time researching a little bit about her life and recipes. I stole  some original recipes and made them – let’s just say – a little more practical.

This week’s picks:

I’m a HUGE fan of O.N.E. coconut water. The passion fruit flavored one is the kids favorite. Sprouts has all varieties for $1.00 each. I’m stocking up!

Italian Squash for 49c a lb. Ralph’s has lean stew meat for $3.99 lb and chicken breast for $2.49 lb.

Thursday: Julia’s Spice Blend grilled chicken breasts with Lundberg risoto

Friday: Gourmet (Not cooking)

Saturday: BBQ?

Sunday: La Tarte Tatin upside-down apple tart

Monday: Soup and cheese/veggie quiche (Meatless Monday)

Tuesday: Julia Child’s inspired Beef Bourguignon

Wednesday: Leftovers

Julia Child Spice Blend

1 teaspoon ground bay leaves

1 teaspoon cloves

1 teaspoon mace

1 teaspoon nutmeg

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon thyme

1/2 teaspoon allspice

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon savory

2 teaspoons freshly ground white pepper