It was made clear to me when we got married that food is important. I mean we’ve all heard it said that “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” <insert eye roll> But honestly, when your husband is so homesick and he’s not able to go home (or even 1/2 an hour south to Tijuana for some legit tacos)*, you scramble for some feel-good recipes.

The first couple of years we were married, we were living in San Diego. We made some really dear friends while out there. One of those amigos para toda la vida, Lili, passed along this recipe. It was perfect – easy enough for a quick dinner solution, great for hot evenings when it’s unbearable to think about turning on the stove, and adaptable to most diets/budgets.

Above all, it was one of the first recipes I incorporated into our meal plans that felt like a true comfort food to both of us. I didn’t even need to ask the hubby if he wanted tortillas (or the occasional tostada) on the side (note: after nine years of marriage I’ve figured out the golden rule: unless it’s pasta, there better be tortillas AND  there better be hot sauce 100% of the time).

Ladies who are about to marry a man of Mexican descent: this is the most important rule of your marriage. Memorize it. Learn from my mistakes. I literally just saved you at least three unnecessary fights. You’re welcome 😉

Summer Lovin’ Chicken Tostadas

• 3 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded (on especially hot days – just buy a rotisserie chicken and shred it)
• 2 heads of romaine lettuce, chopped and washed/dried
• 2 cups of corn, cooked (I like to use fresh off the cob, but canned or dethawed frozen works, too)
• 2 Tbsp ranch dressing
• 1 cup mayonnaise (you can lighten it wish light or sour cream, but we like regular Hellmans/Best Foods)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tostadas (tortilla chips work, too!)
• Salsa Valentina (optional)

Mix first six ingredients in a huge bowl. Serve immediately on tostadas and top with Salsa Valentina if you want a little kick.

We’re not fancy over here!! We like simple and yummy.

What’s your favorite go-to meal as a couple? For those of you with spouses born outside the US, what recipes do they crave?

*While going through the immigration process, the applicant is not allowed to leave the country, drive or work until the necessary papers arrive. This was one of the most trying times of our lives – it was also the start of our marriage. We are grateful for ALL the help and prayers poured out upon us during that time. If you know of anyone going through the paperwork stage of immigration, please do not hesitate to ask them how you can support them during that time. You as well will be gifted with an amigo para toda la vida (and maybe some tamales at Christmastime 😉