With the advancement of the technological age, one would think that families would have it easier, and ultimately gain enough time on their hands. However, everyone is strapped for more hours in the day. Many constantly complain of being sleep deprived. We all struggle to commute to and from work and school. Children have activities like soccer and basketball, etc. Another common challenge we face is the daily preparations of meals.
Breakfast meals are generally easy and basic. Many families consume cereals, eggs,fruit juice like orange, yogurt, milk, toast, and fruits. These are quite easy foods that members of the family will eat and run. Of course, most families purchase lunch at work or school. The stressful part of the day is usually at supper time. No one wishes to arrive home after a hectic day at work or school, and sweat over the stove. Families desire quick and easy meals that will provide essential nutrients to the body.
In order to have your kitchen run in a smooth, quick and efficient manner, it is imperative that you stock up on staples in your pantry and refrigerator. A pantry should always consist of canned sardines, salmon, tomatoes, whole wheat pasta, canned beans and peas. It would be a great idea to always have on hand a rotisserie chicken. Many local stores do prepare tasty chickens at a nominal price. It certainly saves on a lot of time. Do stock up on frozen fruits and vegetables. They are just as nutritious as the fresh ones as they are reaped at their ripest. Some of the quick meals for busy families are as follows:
ROASTED VEGETABLES AND SEARED SALMON
It takes less than 30 minutes to prepare the entire meal. Cut sweet potatoes in strips, and grab an assortment of veggies from your fridge. Drizzle a little olive oil on tray of veggies and season to your taste, roast turning once. While veggies are roasting, season salmon according to your desire and pan-sear fish on both sides for a few minutes. After removing fish from pan add a lemon juice and butter to pan and scrap bits. Sprinkle this on fish. Salmon can be substitute for any other fish like tilapia or sea bass.
ROTISSERIE CHICKEN & COUSCOUS
Couscous is pasta from the Mediterranean region. It is fine in texture and takes about five minutes to cook. Combine water, olive oil or butter in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Place couscous in a glass container, and pour liquid over same and over with plastic wrap for five minutes. Fluff with fork and serve with rotisserie chicken along with a green salad.
WHOLE WHEAT PASTA AND MEAT SAUCE
This dish is loaded with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. Brown chopped meat in a few teaspoons of hot oil. Season with preferred ingredients, then add canned tomatoes and toss in frozen veggies; and simmer. Serve this over a bed of cooked whole wheat pasta.
Evidently, families are extremely busy; and although they require quick meals, it does not mean they have to sacrifice taste and nutrition. The suggestions above are just examples of what a busy family can incorporate in their weekly menu. Bona apetit!