One question I have been getting a lot lately is what can make for dinner when it’s late, I’m starving, and don’t feel like cooking. Luckily there are lots of options when you are in need of a quick meal and don’t have much time. Before you reach for the takeout menu or hit up the drive through on your way home, check out these options:
Eggs: eggs are not just for breakfast. You can throw a fried egg on top of literally anything for a little protein boost
Canned tuna: people have mixed feelings about canned tuna, but it is super convenient in a bind. Keep your pantry stocked with a couple cans at all times. Look for a brand that is not packed in soybean oil and is free from preservatives and chemicals. Wild Planet is a great option and is available at most local grocery stores. Like eggs, you can throw canned tuna on top of almost anything for protein in a pinch.
Frozen fish: this is an item to keep stock in your freezer at all times. Lots of frozen fish comes from questionable sources and can be treated with chemicals to help preserve the fish- so always read the ENTIRE label when choosing a brand and variety. Lately, I have found frozen USA wild-caught rockfish and Alaskan salmon in individual filet portions at Costco and Safeway- good sources are out there, just read your labels carefully. Fish thaws much more quickly than frozen meat (in about 10 minutes under warm water) and can be seared on high heat to cook in less than 10 minutes.
Aidell’s chicken sausage: all Aidell’s products are free from artificial ingredients. From the freezer to your dinner plate they can be ready in around 10 minutes. Try the Chorizo, sun dried tomato, or Andouille! There are other good brands of chicken and pork sausage out there that are made with natural ingredients- just check your labels!
The freezer is your friend when you don’t have time to prep. I like to have a couple bags of frozen mixed veggies in my freezer at all times. The variety available these days in most freezer sections is pretty impressive- you can find anything from cubed butternut squash to shiitake mushrooms to cauliflower “rice” prepared and frozen. Try to keep an eye out for things that you like and keep them around for situations when you need a quick fix. Also, setting aside some individual portions of meals that you cook and freezing them in oven-safe containers can be helpful, too.
I hope these ideas help to keep you on track even on your busiest weeknights!