Are You in a Dinner Time Rut?

Has dinnertime become the “same ole song and dance” at your house?  Either you’re making the same quick meals over and over, ordering takeout, or picking up fast food.  Yes, today’s fast paced lifestyles have left the majority of American families in the dinnertime rut.  But have no fear - there is still hope.

When faced with the challenge of switching it up, come dinnertime, don’t let yourself be overwhelmed with the idea that “different” means “labor intensive.”  Consider looking at quick recipes from a different culture or step outside the box when it comes to side dishes.

Some of the best ways to spice up a meal, but still be speedy in the kitchen, can be a simple change in preparation.  Consider broiling your meat in the oven, as opposed to waiting on a bake time or taking time to drag out the grill and when it comes to sides, while fresh is always the best health choice, those new microwave steamed veggies are a much better alternative to a greasy burger and fries.

Here are a couple dishes that are quick, delicious, and not something you see every day;

Tomato and mozzarella salad (the instant gratification way) –
2 small containers of cherry tomatoes from your local grocer
4 or 5 individual packets of mozzarella string cheese
Italian dressing or Olive Oil and basil to taste

Wash the tomatoes, slice the cheese into chunks, add dressing and your done!  It’s a crowd pleaser for sure and done in 5 minutes flat!

For a quick main course meat consider Balsamic Pork Chops –
1 inch pork chops (frozen or fresh)
Balsamic vinegar to taste
Sliced red onion (optional)

Set your oven to broil at 500 degrees and line a cookie sheet with foil (this saves on cleanup time).  If your chops are frozen, they can be thawed under running water or by using the defrost option on your microwave.  Next place the chops onto your foiled cookie sheet and dress with balsamic vinegar, use as much or as little as you’d like.  Add sliced onion to each piece if you choose (it adds a little something extra, especially if you’re an onion lover).  Then simply broil for 8 to 10 minutes (be sure to keep an eye on your meat since cooking time may vary with each oven).  Serve and enjoy!  

Remember, you don’t have to be a TV chef to put together a quick and tasty meal.  Just use your imagination and don’t be afraid to try new things – you always have the Internet for inspiration!