Life can get hectic, and on those busy nights when time is scarce, preparing a wholesome dinner may seem like an insurmountable task. However, with a little
planning and some clever strategies, you can get a delicious and nutritious meal on the table in 20 minutes or less, making busy nights a breeze.
1. Stock up on Staples: A well-stocked pantry is a lifesaver when you're short on time. Have a variety of canned goods like beans,
tomatoes, and broth, and grains like brown rice, quinoa and pasta on hand. This way, you'll always have the basics to whip up a speedy meal.
2. Make a Pick List: A good part of the delay when cooking is not know what to make. This is why I highly recommend something I call a Pick
List.
It's comprised of my own personal list of tried-and-true main dishes and side dishes. So, while I'll choose a new recipe now and then (usually only on a weekend day), most of the time
I choose from my Pick List. Very little thought required...and those meals all cook up fast because I can make them without having to read a recipe since I've made them so many times.
By the way, a simple salad is often one of my "side dishes." It comes together quickly, is super-healthy, and can
be prepped when the rest of the meal is cooking. I'll often put toppings on the counter so everyone can peronalize their salad: craisins, raisins, sunflower seeds, almonds, mandarin oranges, wonton strips, etc.
3. Go for One-Pan Wonders: One-pan meals are a lifesaver on busy
nights. By combining all your ingredients in a single skillet or sheet pan, you not only save time but also reduce the number of dishes to wash. Try recipes like sheet pan chicken and vegetables or stir-fried noodles with vegetables and protein for a quick and easy dinner.
4. Opt for
Quick-Cooking Proteins: Choose proteins that cook quickly, such as salmon (so fast!), boneless chicken tenders, thin-cut pork chops, shrimp, or tofu. These options can be cooked in a matter of minutes, making them ideal for speedy weeknight dinners.
5. Utilize Frozen Foods:
Frozen fruits and vegetables are just as nutritious as their fresh counterparts and can be a real time-saver. Keep a variety of frozen veggies, fruits, and proteins in your freezer to add to stir-fries, soups, or pasta dishes for a convenient and nutritious boost.
6. Embrace the
Power of Quick-Cook Appliances: Invest an Instant Pot and/or Air Fryer to significantly reduce cooking times for dishes that typically take hours. 7. Embrace the Power of Slow-Cook Appliances: Yes, slow-cook appliances, like crockpots, take all day to cook, but they only require your morning prep time. When dinner time arrives, your meal is hot and ready. Busy nights should never sacrifice a delicious, nutritious dinner. With proper planning, a well-stocked
kitchen, and some quick cooking tools and techniques, you can have a satisfying meal on the table in a flash.
