Out of Dinner Ideas? Try a Themed Meal!
By Donna Stark
Do you get frustrated each week when it comes time to plan your meals? Are you met with that all-too-familiar blank stare after asking your family what kind of dinners they want for the week? Well, it may be nice to know that you are not alone! Dinner decisions can be overwhelming, especially if you have a family of picky eaters. However, there is a way around this rut that is sure to please everyone ... themed meals.
What are Themed Meals?
When the internet is filled with recipe after recipe after recipe, themed meals are your best bet for simple, healthy dinners that won't break the bank. But more importantly, they are a great way for everyone to create the meal they like. Take a look at a few suggestions here.
- South of the border - Chicken, beans, rice, cheese, lettuce ... the ingredients may always be the same, but the options are endless! Make this meal even healthier by making homemade salsa and guacamole and by serving whole-wheat tortillas.
- Meatless Monday - It's time to try plant-based meat alternatives such as vegetarian burgers, tofu, lentils, and chickpeas. Plan this after your "south of the border" night so you can use up some of your leftover beans and avocados!
- Simple salads - Pull out your favorite greens and top with all of your favorite ingredients. Think outside of the box with this too because it couldn't be any easier. Offer plenty of seeds, berries, pre-cooked meat, fish, beans, quinoa, and vegetables. And make your own dressing to keep those extra calories and fat out of your meal.
- Pizza party - Who doesn't love pizza? Pizza night at home couldn't be more simple because most stores already sell the pre-made dough, but if not, don't worry! Flatbread, English muffins, and bagels will do the trick too. Set out plenty of raw vegetables, chicken, sausage, pepperoni, and different types of cheese to get everyone in the Italian spirit!
- Super soups - The next time you whip up a pot of homemade soup, make some extra and save it in your freezer for another night. Then, when you have made and saved a couple of different options, pull them all out and have a soup bar. Make the meal even better by completing it with garlic bread, crackers, or a warm baguette from your local bakery.
Get Cooking!
Themed meals are definitely the way to go when you have run out of ideas for dinner, so start today and erase those blank stares off the faces of your children and spouse. Then sit down, pat yourself on the back, and enjoy your meals with those you love most.
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