Many of us are busy with work kids, sports, etc. and are looking for ways to put a healthy meal on the table. Feeding my family nutritious meals is very important to me. I grew up in a large family and my mom always managed to have wholesome dinners on the table. I loved eating all together and have tried to continue that tradition with my four kids.
Before I was married and had children I would visit one of my sisters in Vermont. She has four children and made a family tradition of allowing them to choose a dinner each week. I loved the idea and new someday I would like to do the same with my family.
I have been having my kids plan our dinner menu now for the past 3 years. They love it. We do have some rules though. Their choice needs to be nutritious and different from their choice the previous week. They help prep, cook, serve, and clean up . It takes much preparation and planning on my part, but once you have a system it works! They are learning about healthy foods, food prep, and simple cooking steps. It gives us some one on one time which we all love.
I do my supermarket shopping on Mondays, so Sunday night I ask the kids what they want for their dinner for the week. Each child gets a night and so does my husband. That leaves one night for me and one free night for pizza, chili, soups, etc. After discussing, tweeking, and making my list of all the necessary ingredients , I hit the market . It actually has saved me money because I only buy what's on the list.
Here's an example of this weeks menu:
Monday-baked potato bar with veggie toppings, cheese, ground turkey and some Applegate bacon, and a salad.
Tuesday- tacos with ground turkey, whole wheat wraps, avocado, lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, brown rice, cheese, salsa, and homemade refried beans.
Wednesday- calzones made with whole wheat pizza dough, sauce, mozzarella cheese, broccoli, and sweet Italian chicken sausage. Big salad too!
Thursday- homemade fish sticks made with haddock, whole wheat Panko bread crumbs, and couscous . Also sautéed onions, kale, and mushrooms (Teddy's favorites!)
Friday- pizza night because mom away!,
Saturday- roasted chicken with lots of roasted veggies and salad
Sunday- grass fed beef burgers sweet potato fries , cauliflower and a side salad.
Just an example of a week here. I always have raw veggies in the middle of the table to snack on and some clementines now as well. I love roasted veggies so I have extra of those too!
I hope this helps you all. Please be in touch!
Donna
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