#Collaborative post
Let’s face it, for many of us, weeknights can feel like a rush to get everything done when you are trying to juggle work, school, and everything else that is going on. This tends to mean that we all reach of a little convenience on occasion when it comes to making weeknight dinner as we just want to have a bit of a break.
If this situation sounds familiar then say goodbye to the stress and hello to easy weeknight dinners with these clever hacks for busy families. From meal planning made simple to time-saving kitchen gadgets, one-pot wonders for quick cleanup, healthy fast-food alternatives, batch cooking, and getting the kids involved in meal prep – we’ve got you covered. With these tips, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying a delicious meal with your loved ones. Start making weeknight dinners a breeze today!
Meal Planning Made Easy
Meal planning does not need to be difficult and you will find yourself less stressed.
If you don’t know where to start, take it back to basics by looking at what you may already have in your cupboards and fridge/freezer. From there you can look at what meals you can create from the bits you have before getting in your food shop.
I prefer online shopping for my food so I don’t buy things that I don’t need but it is also great to be able to check if I have something before I order. Don’t forget, you don’t have to buy from one shop and can do a healthy online food shop for things such as meats and vegetables from places other than supermarkets.
For example, we will purchase our Christmas meat hamper or chicken breasts from MuscleFood but still pick up our fresh items from a store local to us. It is about finding the balance that works for you.
Time-Saving Kitchen Tools and Gadgets
Sometimes investing in time-saving kitchen tools and gadgets can revolutionize the way you approach meal prep.
From the ever-popular air fryer to a trusty slow cooker, each item can help you prepare and cook meals without the faff.
It is not however the be-all and end-all of quick weeknight dinners, some however do help you whip up delicious weeknight dinners without fuss and I personally would no longer be without my air fryer and slow cooker!
One-Pot Wonders for Quick Cleanup
When it comes to preparing weeknight dinners for your busy family, the last thing you want to deal with is a sink full of dirty dishes.
That’s where one-pot wonders come in handy. These simple and flavourful meals can be cooked all in one pot, cutting down on cleanup time and leaving you with more time to enjoy your meal.
If you use your slow cooker to do the process for you, you will also have a delicious meal ready for when you step through the door in the evening too, giving you even more time back! Dump-and-go bags are fast becoming a popular way to do one-pot cooking with minimal effort!
Healthy Fast Food Alternatives
If you’re looking for healthy fast food alternatives for those nights when cooking just isn’t an option, there are plenty of choices that will keep your family fuelled and satisfied.
Many supermarkets are offering more convenience when it comes to meals to make sure that you can get your dinner out quicker but not compromise on the flavour.
Don’t be put off by the ready-prepared meals, some have come a long way since they first hit the shelves!
Batch Cooking and Freezer Meals
This is one of my favourite ways to save time and effort when it comes to meals.
Batch cooking and freezer meals are game-changers for busy families looking to streamline their weeknight dinner routine and take minimal effort on top of what you are already cooking.
By preparing large quantities of meals in advance and storing them in the freezer, you can save time and stress when dinnertime rolls around. Whether you spend a few hours on the weekend cooking up several meals to freeze or simply double a recipe during the week, having ready-to-go meals waiting in the freezer can be a lifesaver.
It is also a great way to use up things such as veggies that may be going past their best and bulking out meals on things you may have picked up on offer at the supermarket.
Get the Kids Involved in Meal Prep
Getting the kids involved in meal prep can be a fun and rewarding way to not only lighten the load for busy parents but also create lasting memories in the kitchen. Children of all ages can help with various tasks, such as washing vegetables, stirring ingredients, or setting the table.
Not only does this teach them valuable life skills, but it also gives them a sense of ownership and pride in the meal they helped create.
Involving kids in meal prep can also make dinnertime more enjoyable and less stressful for everyone. When children feel like they have a say in what’s being served and have a hand in making it, they are more likely to eat and enjoy the meal.
So next time you’re planning your weeknight dinners, consider getting the kids involved in meal prep. Not only will it help make your evenings run smoother, but it will also create special moments and traditions that your family will cherish for years to come.