We are in that season of life where our kids are checking out different sports and clubs, which is great for their physical and social development, but a real burden on our evening schedules! Practices and meetings often overlap, and any that take place at or near dinnertime have us scrambling for "heavy snacks" to tide over our tummies until a late dinner, or relying on fast food.
I reached out to some friends for their go-to recipes and make-aheads that allow them to get out the door with a meal in hand (or packed up picnic-style) while staying on schedule.
Super Simple
- PB&J with a side of carrot and celery sticks
- Charcuterie boxes (salami, pepperoni, ham, crackers, cheese cubes or cracker-sized slices, etc.)
- Add in sliced veggies your family members love- carrots, celery, bell peppers, mushrooms, broccoli, cauliflower, snap peas, etc.
- Mason jar salads (or any reusable container)-- Mix lettuces and/or spinach with everyone's favorite toppings. Pack dressing(s) in small containers so the salad doesn't get soggy in transit.
- BLTs using fresh lettuce and homegrown tomatoes
Make Ahead
- Cold cut sliders with their favorite meats, cheeses and condiments on mini Hawaiian or brioche buns
- Swap the bun for a wrap- veggie, tortilla, or other- and cut into one-inch chunks for bite-sized convenience
- Pasta salads with grilled chicken and veggies
- Grilled cheese sandwiches (wrapped in foil and transport in a thermal bag) and soup in a thermal jar or container
- Turkey burgers grilled in advance and wrapped in foil to keep them warm
- Microwave quesadillas-- Put pre-grilled chicken on a tortilla and microwave for one minute. Add Mexican cheese and top with the other tortilla, and nuke for another minute. Cut into quarters.
