After a long day of work, school, and other commitments, finding the energy to cook a wholesome dinner can be a challenge. Preparing a good meal takes time, and when we’re already stressed, chopping and measuring a lot of ingredients is the last thing we feel like doing. However, we’ve found that a little planning and a few time-saving tricks can make dinner a breeze after even the most chaotic day. Read on for some simple, yet effective ways to streamline your dinner routine so that you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Embrace the Power of Meal Prep
Spending even a small portion of your weekend or a free evening prepping meals in advance can save you valuable time during the week. Chop vegetables, marinate proteins, and cook grains ahead of time, then store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use them. With pre-prepared ingredients on hand, you can quickly assemble a variety of dishes like stir-fries, salads, or pasta throughout the week.
Combine Homemade and Store-Bought
Don’t be afraid to take shortcuts in the kitchen. Utilizing a combination of homemade and store-bought ingredients can help you to create delicious meals while saving you time and simplifying cleanup. For instance, you can make your own homemade sauce while relying on pre-packaged pasta, or serve something from your grocery store’s hot bar with a homemade side dish.
Make Breakfast for Dinner
Breakfast foods are quick, easy to prepare, and loved by many. Turn dinner into a fun and effortless affair by serving breakfast dishes like omelets, pancakes, or breakfast burritos. Not only are these meals simple to prepare, but they also offer a variety of options to suit everyone’s taste preferences.
