FAMILY DINNERS IN A FLASH
With school back in session, along with all the activities that come with it, planning family dinners can often be daunting and the last thing on your mind. With not much time left in the evening after a busy day, planning in advance saves you time and allows you the opportunity to make nutritious meals for your family. When planning meals, keep three important factors in mind for quick, easy meals that pack a punch of vitamins and minerals.
HEALTHY DINNERS FACTORS
- Include at least one selection from each of the five food groups: grains, vegetables, fruits, dairy, and protein foods.
- Limit your intake of foods that are high in fat
- Include high-fiber foods like whole-grain breads and cereals, vegetables, fruits, dry beans, nuts and seeds.
Incorporating these three guidelines in your dinner meal planning will help you not only in preparation time but will also guarantee a healthy and nutritious meal!
DINNER A FAMILY AFFAIR
Another idea to prepare dinners in a flash is to make them a family affair. Involving the family in meal preparation and cooking can take the load off of one person and be a bonding experience. Adults can be in charge of the entrée, older kids prepare the salad and the younger children can set the table. Studies have shown that kids in families who eat together are more confident, have better vocabularies, and score higher on tests. Preparing and enjoying meals as a family can also help your family bond grow stronger!
It can be tough to have family meals with school, work, and all the activities that ensue. Careful planning and working together can be key to having a successful family dinner prepared and served in a flash. Drive-thrus and fast food are not a quick fix to timely crunches as those meals lack valuable nutrients kids need to grow strong and stay healthy.
Check out the Dishin’ Out Healthy stand this Thursday, 4-6pm for some great ideas and recipes to enjoy with your family!
For more information, check out EatRight.org
Dishin’ Out Healthy – Health Educator: Nichelle
“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well” –Virginia Woolf
