As spring heats up, a lot of families are on the go, either at activities or spending more time outside. And, who wants to be cooped up in the kitchen making dinner when we finally have nice weather? Here are 5 EASY meals that will get you in and out of the kitchen in a flash, leaving more time to do other things.
Monday: Spinach & Tomato Spaghetti
We’re combining spaghetti night and Meatless Monday with this one and the best part is…it only uses one pot!
Ingredients
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with onion and garlic
1 ½ c. chicken stock
½ tsp. dried Italian herbs
8 oz. whole-grain spaghetti
10 oz. fresh spinach
¼ c. Parmesan cheese
Directions
In a large sauce pan add tomatoes, chicken stock, dried herbs and bring to a boil. Add spaghetti and submerge in liquid. Cover, reduce heat and cook 7 minutes or until pasta is almost done. Uncover and add spinach in batches until it wilts. Remove from heat. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tuesday: Salsa Chicken or Pork
It’s a classic…Taco Tuesday. Here’s a super easy recipe that cooks while you’re at work (or play).
Ingredients
1 c. salsa (I like to use roasted tomato salsa)
2 lbs. boneless chicken or pork
½ c. water
Directions
Combine ingredients in slow cooker; cook on low 6-8 hours. Shred meat; use as filling in tacos, enchiladas or burritos. Top with shredded cheese, and your other favorite taco toppers. Serve with a side of canned black beans.
Wednesday: Turkey Burgers
It’s finally grilling weather and nothing tastes better on the grill than a burger!
Ingredients
4 ground turkey patties (one per person)
4 whole wheat buns
Toppings (sliced cheese, tomato, onion, avocado etc.)
Directions
Preheat the grill. Grill the turkey patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Serve the burgers on whole wheat buns with toppings. Complete the meal by serving a veggie or fruit side. (To make this super simple, buy pre-made turkey patties.)
Thursday: Fish Packets
If you’re trying to add more fish to your diet, this is an easy way to cook it. The fish can be cooked in the oven or on the grill. I prefer to use parchment paper in the oven and aluminum foil on the grill to make the packets.
Ingredients
4 (6 oz.) firm-fleshed white-fish fillet, such as halibut, cod, or haddock (one per person)
Seasonings (olive oil, butter, lemon, pesto, salsa, wine, salt, pepper, herbs, etc.)
Directions
Set fish on the parchment paper or aluminum foil. (If cooking in the oven place on a baking sheet and if grilling; spray the aluminum foil with cooking spray, so the fish won’t stick). Season the fish by drizzling with olive oil, butter, lemon juice, or pesto, and rub over the fillet. Season with salt and pepper or herbs. Once fish is seasoned, wrap in the parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake in the oven at 400° 10 to 12 minutes. Grill 5-6 minutes on each side. Serve with a side of rice and some veggies.
Friday: Pizza Night
Purchase some pizza dough, set out a few toppings and let everyone make their own pizza. (Or just call for delivery;)
Ingredients
pizza dough (pre-made:)
pizza sauce (store bought:)
shredded mozzarella cheese
pizza toppings (pepperoni, mushrooms, black olives, etc.)
Directions
Preheat oven. Load the pizza dough with sauce, cheese and toppings. Bake in the oven at 425° (or package directions) 10-12 minutes. If you’re feeling ambitious, serve with a side salad.
What’s on your family’s dinner menu this week? Let us know!
