Back to School Meal Preparation Tips

by Chef Mary Kelly CPC

Had a long day at work and now you have to help your child with homework, while making dinner? Here are a few stress-relieving tips for you:

Plan a weekly menu. Dinner time is less stressful when you know in advance what you'll be preparing.
Keep a well-stocked pantry. Cut your meal time stress in half by not having to run to the store for last minute ingredients.
Pre-cut and pre-measure ingredients. If you are pressed for time, having ready to grab bags of pre-cut vegetables for both side dishes and seasoning (like onions and peppers) can make cooking easier.
Make time for family meals at home. Cooking at home is an excellent opportunity to spend quality time with your children. Meals prepared at home are often more nutritious and less expensive than pre-packaged meals.
Freeze a few easy dinners. It will be much easier on you if you have dinner already prepared so that meal preparation will not add to the stress.
Make lunches the night before school. Older children should help or make their own.
Eliminate wasted food left uneaten in the refrigerator. Soups, casseroles and stews, which can be reheated, are a great way to avoid wasting and to have a meal ready.

Chef Mary Kelly, CPC is the owner of Simply Delicious Personal Chef Service. To learn more about her and this unique dining alternative, go to www.ChefMaryKelly.com or email Chef Mary at Dining@ChefMaryKelly.com

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