Tifton Scene May 2022 | Page 34

RECIPES

5 Steps for Mastering

Family Meal Planning

by Family Features

As you and your family embark on a mission to create delicious , nutritious meals all while saving money , it ’ s key to remember meal planning is essential for success . From tracking a list of ingredients you ’ ll need to noting your loved ones ’ favorite foods , there are some easy steps you can take to make dinners at home enjoyable and budget friendly .

Getting on track with your own plan can start with these tips from Healthy Family Project ’ s Mission for Nutrition , which aims to help families find weekly meal success with an internationally inspired e-cookbook including grocery lists , recipe ideas and cooking hacks .
Work together . Before heading to the store or heating up the oven , sit down with your loved ones and make a list of easy-to-make recipes you all enjoy . Each time you discover a new favorite , add it to the list so you ’ ll have a reference guide when it ’ s time to plan a week ’ s worth of meals .
Stick to a schedule . Set a day and time each week your family can meet and plan out dinners . This also offers an opportunity to bring to light any newfound favorites or fresh ideas while bringing everyone to the same room for quality time together .
Plan time-saving processes . Think ahead while planning meals and consider the equipment you ’ ll need . Saving time while cooking can be as easy as sticking to recipes that call for hands-off appliances like a slow cooker or pressure cooker and using a food processor rather than a knife and cutting board .
Schedule a “ leftovers night .” When you prep dinners that call for crossover ingredients , it ’ s easier to turn one meal into two . For example , buying sweet onions and chicken breast to make Chicken Apple Enchiladas means you ’ ll have those ingredients on hand for
Greek Chicken Bowls later in the week .
Make a list . Once you ’ ve decided on recipes for the week , create a list of all the ingredients you ’ ll need . While you ’ re at the store , stick to your plan and avoid impulse buys to help stay on track while getting in and out quicker .
Find more recipes and meal planning tips by downloading the free e-cookbook at healthyfamilyproject . com / mission-for-nutrition and join the conversation by following # missionfornutrition on social media .
34 TiftonScene | MAY 2022