Greens with Carrots, Feta Cheese and Brown RiceFall is often linked with a return to routine. This can mean adopting time- and money-saving strategies or embracing healthier eating habits. In both cases, the Whole Story blog is here to help. Through mid-September we’re sharing our favorite pointers for mealtimes (including snacks!) from how to shop to how to prep, so you can get back on track with ease.
In my experience, dinner success hinges on being prepared. My husband and I make a meal plan before we shop and we’re sure to include time savers like broths and stocks, breaded chicken nuggets and jarred pesto.
It’s shortcuts like these that help us get dinner on the table faster without turning to take-out. Sometimes though the meals we plan fall through. (Oops! I forgot to buy salmon or someone ate the leftover pasta for lunch.) That’s when I’m glad we’ve stocked up on versatile and convenient meal solutions.
Mini Mummy PizzasHere are a few of my favorites:
Frozen cooked rice or quinoa. Greens with Carrots, Feta Cheese and Brown Rice opens in a new tab is a colorful, fast, filling supper.
Roast chicken from the Prepared Foods department. Think chicken and rice, soups, tacos and pastas. Get inspired by our top 10 fast and easy dinners you can make with roast chicken opens in a new tab.
Frozen veggies, fruits and greens. Stir-fries and sides are just the beginning. Plus, just use what you want and save the rest for another meal!
Canned cooked beans. Bean salads and soups can be made in a snap.
Premade pizza dough. Yes, you can make your own pizza in less time than it takes for delivery. Calzones and focaccias opens in a new tab are other options. But you can use it for baguettes and Danish opens in a new tab, too.
Bagged fresh greens. Beyond salads, they are perfect for sandwiches, stir-fries and rice bowls. Stir into pasta sauces and soups too.
Jarred pasta sauce. So many options! Pasta dishes, pizza bagels and even chili (just add beans and chili powder!).
Premade soup. While you’re reheating the soup, make a toasted sandwich or simple green salad, and dinner is served!
Canned tomatoes. Poached fish, baked eggs, pasta dishes, soups and chilis…what can’t canned tomatoes do?
Precut produce. Look for precut veggies for stir-fries, soups and rice bowls. Or shop the salad bar for smaller amounts of prepared fruits and veggies.
Frozen fish fillets. Ready to eat? These are ready to cook!
What dinner shortcuts have you have discovered for easy weeknight mealsLet me know in the comments below.
