Meal Planning: Summer

Memorial Day has come and gone. Most schools are out for summer break and the temperature is telling us that it is too hot to cook. Who can agree? So what are the alternatives? Eat salad and sandwiches until September? I don't know about you, but I don't find that as an appetizing choice at all! Hmm what to do, what to do!? OK, you twisted my arm! I am going to give you some yummy choices that will not only help you to make tasty meals, but also help to save you some time and money too.

Slow Cooker

The slow cooker is a great way to stay cool and save time. Basically you deposit your entree of choice: chicken, beef, pork or whatever you prefer. Season to your tastes then set it and forget it! Go to the pool. Hang out in the backyard. Take the kids to the beach or the park. Whatever you want to do. Six to eight hours later, your meal is ready and you did not have to be tied to the stove or the oven. You are able to use your time the way you want to and usually slow cooker meals stretch so that saves you money as well. Win win!

And if you are looking for some delicious and easy slow cooker ideas and or recipes, you can find a few here: https://traceyavon.wixsite.com/traceystimesavers/post/ready-for-spring-eating

Grilling

The summer season usually means cookouts and barbecues. Memorial Day kicks it off, then comes July 4th with the finale of Labor Day. But grilling is not just for holidays. I can't tell you how many times I have caught the scent of charcoal or seen the smoke rising from gas grills in my neighbors backyards. The grocery stores are often spotlighting sales on meats that are perfect for grilling along with veggies that make great sides. Moreover, not just the entree can be grilled these days. Appetizers and desserts are sharing the grill space making meal prep easier and saving time. No more running from grill to stove top or oven. And it's a great way to spend time with family and friends.

Salads

I know I mentioned that living off of salads for the entire summer season is not my idea of a good time, but if done right, salads can be fun, delicious and a time saver too! The great thing about salads is that they are very versatile. You can put in as much or as little as you want. Want protein? Add it! Want a lot of veggies? Add it! Want fruit? Add it! You get the picture. And if you have leftovers from the slow cooker or grill, then all the better. Just add it! Salads are also a wonderful summer season meal because it is portable. Take it to the pool, the beach, or to the park. Don't want to travel that far? Take your salad to your front porch or back yard. It is the perfect portable, no muss, no fuss meal.

So there you have it. You can have wonderful meals in the summer without sweating or spending a lot of time in the kitchen. Just choose what cooking method is right for you and your family. And most of all, make sure it is delicious!

Till next time. Bon appetite!