Even though vacation is intended to be a time to relax and do absolutely nothing, cooking in at the hotel proved to be extremely relaxing. After coming in from the beach, pool or lazy river, we could all shower, munch on simple h’ors d’oeuvres, and then together help to prepare a simple meal. By buying a veggie tray, cocktail shrimp, chips, salsa, cheese, and crackers at the beginning of our stay, we had enough appetizers to last the entire trip. There was no separate driving to a restaurant, getting dressed up, or reapplying make-up involved. I’ll even admit to eating dinner in my pajamas most nights. Sara and I are generally of the opinion that eating and cooking in has the potential to be more relaxing than eating out for families with kids old enough to help prepare, cook, clean up, etc. Aulani has likely taken note of this as well, if their in-room prix fixe dinner menu for families is any indication. Below are just a few of the things that we made in our room over the course of the trip.
Romaine salad with beets, mushrooms, soft-boiled eggs, sunflower seeds, craisins, and balsamic vinaigrette.
Gemelli pasta with grilled garlic herb butter tiger shrimp, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.
Fried egg over smoked salmon, avocado, and 10 grain toast (At home we like to top it with a drizzle of Sriracha)
Grilled Ono freshly caught by our friends the Ma’s
Garlic baby bok choy and broccoli
Chicken tortilla soup garnished with cherry tomatoes, sliced avocado, crushed tortilla chips, and shredded cheese
