Does this sound appetizing to you?

[LeftofObama]

I'm having a few people (family) over tomorrow and I wasn't sure what to make for dinner. I'm not in a mood to cook from scratch so I thought I would mix some shredded beef with onions, peppers, and garlic and mix it with a marinara sauce and serve it over pasta with cheddar biscuits.

[Warpy]

1. Garlic bread would be better

Just add a green salad and you're all set.

[LeftofObama]

2. So you don't think the shredded beef, veggies, and marinara

will look like I was just being lazy and slapped something together and served it over pasta?

I'm usually a pretty good cook and I love to do it. I even get a compliment every now and then. I've just been feeling kind of down lately and I really don't feel like toiling for hours in the kitchen.

Garlic bread and a salad are an excellent idea. Thanks!

[Warpy]

4. If it's good, it's good

Besides, people come to dinner for the company, not the food. If it were about the food, they'd have turned down the invitation and gone to a restaurant.

Shredded beef is fine in a meat sauce. I had an Italian roomie in Boston who always did it that way. If you really want to gussy it up, you can buy some Italian sausage but honestly, it will be good as is.

[cbayer]

3. Sounds good to me.

Is the beef already cooked?

[LeftofObama]

5. Yes, it's already cooked.

That's why I figured I could just saute some onions and peppers and throw it all in a marinara. Heck, I could have dinner ready in about 20 minutes.

[cbayer]

6. Easy! The only thing I would reconsider is the cornbread.

I tend to do one starch at a time, but that's because I'm watching my better half's waistline.

Salad fixings? I would like salad with this with either a bottled dressing or just some good oil and vinegar on the table.

Enjoy!!

[LeftofObama]

7. Thank you.

I won't feel so bad now that I've gotten advice from the C&B experts. You guys (and ladies) have saved my butt a few times. I really value your advice!

[cbayer]

8. Sorry you are going through a rough patch, LO.

I hope spending some time around the table with your family brings you some peace.