Most families are starved for time together, and dinner may be the only meal we get to eat at the same time, around the same table. While this may conjure up an idyllic, Norman Rockwell-style setting with the happy family gathered around the table while Mother brings in a steaming roast, the reality for many households is a hectic rush to the kitchen where dinner is squeezed in between other commitments and convenience is the motivator behind the menu. So, if tomato sauce is the closest you get to a salad, and roasts are reserved for Sundays, then read on for a few simple hacks that can put the ‘dine’ back into your dinner.
• Eat less. Sounds simple, but it’s true. Studies show that having a smaller meal at the end of the day is a great way to maximise weight loss. Sleeping burns far fewer calories, so avoid fuelling up before heading to bed, as those unused calories will just be absorbed.
• Don’t cut out your favourites and run the risk of a family riot but give your treats a detox. Friday night pizza-night can be done with extra vegetable toppings and homemade bases or make a low carb, cauliflower-based cheese sauce for your next Mac ‘n’ Cheese (trust us, you will not know the difference, and neither will your kids!)
• Watch your pasta intake. Pasta contains around 130 calories per 100 grams, compared to potatoes at about 80 calories per 100 grams, so limit it to once a week, or look for low-calorie alternatives. Use whole grain pasta in your lasagne or get yourself a spiraliser and try zucchini noodles with your meatballs.
• If there are picky eaters around your dinner table, get them involved before you resort to chicken nuggets for the third day running. From slicing and dicing to counting out the cherry tomatoes for the salad, bring your kids into the kitchen, and they may be more inclined to eat a healthy meal.
• Work smarter, not harder when it comes to prepping. Often healthy meals require more prep work. Try making enough for three or four meals at once, and freeze the rest in meal-size portions to pull out when you just need something quick and easy.
• Finally, make your dining area a ‘media-free zone’. Without distractions, the emphasis is on the food and family, which is what really matters.
After all, they say that ‘Dinner is to a day what dessert is to dinner’ so finish right with great food and good times.
Recipe Inspirations
Hearty and Healthy Chicken Pie
