Dinner on the Run

I read this quick "fix-it" article, and found it a great resource. Meredith and I have just started the journey of children, but we ALWAYS have trouble planning for meals, and then, it just takes too long. Maybe this will help....I hope will help you, too.

(Yahoo.com)
Having kids means that you are not only constantly on the run but also that you want to provide the healthiest meals you possibly can. I know exactly what you are thinking — how can I make great home-cooked meals when life is so hectic? Let's go over some tips to help you prepare nutritious meals more quickly.

Kids can eat what adults eat. Don't plan to be a short-order cook each night. Instead of making two different meals, save time by serving your kids what you are eating. And if the kids declare that they won't eat what you're serving, then don't worry about it. Young kids won't starve themselves, and they may eventually learn to eat something new.

Create "planned-overs" (not leftovers). Always keep future meals in mind so that, when you have the time, you can cook a double or triple batch. For example, cook enough chicken for two meals and have baked chicken and mashed potatoes one night, and chicken and pasta salad another night that week.

Cook on the weekends. This will save you time during the week. Meals can be frozen and then thawed (in the refrigerator) on the day you are going to eat them.

Buy prepared foods. So many foods now come ready-to-eat and these foods save loads of time. Choose pre-cut fruits and vegetables, prewashed salads, frozen vegetables, cut or shredded cheeses, skinless, boneless, trimmed meats, or precooked meats.

Keep your pantry stocked with quick-to-fix foods. These include pasta, rice, canned or frozen fruits and vegetables, canned tuna or chicken, and seasonings and condiments that will add more flavor. Keeping such foods on hand will save you time and trips to the grocery store.

And last, have your kids get involved in the kitchen. This can become a time saver for you and also help your kids learn about cooking.

Bon Appetite!
CH