When your schedule gets so busy that your meal planning takes place in the “drive-through” lane of a fast food establishment, it may be time to reconsider the importance of family meals. The following suggestions will help your family make the most of limited meal preparation time while providing the most nutritious meals possible, and enjoying meaningful time together.

Tips for Quick Meals at Home

Commit to making home-prepared family meals a priority and stick to it.

Stock up on frozen vegetables, canned fruit, beans, broth, pasta and rice. They are fast and always there when you need them to fill out a meal.

Create a weekly or monthly menu planner. Fill it in with your family’s favorite quick and easy meals.

Shop using a customized list from the meals planned for the week.

Cook in quantity on the weekends for quick and easy meals to be used on weeknights.

Organize a weekly “make your own” night. Put out the fixings for tacos, fajitas, individual pizzas or a stir-fry, and have family members assemble their own creations.

Utilize convenience foods. Keep frozen bread dough, piecrust, refrigerated biscuits and baking mixes for fast baking.

A rotisserie chicken purchased from your local deli makes a quick meal when served with salad, steamed vegetables and fruit.

Cook once and dine at least twice. While browning ground beef for spaghetti, brown enough for other dishes such as chili or soup. Freeze the excess and it’s ready when you need it. Freeze extra rice or noodles and use later in casseroles. Thaw, reheat and add your favorite cheese for a quick side dish. Use leftover vegetables and meats in soups, stews, stir-fry dishes or casseroles.

Create a salad meal. Add canned salmon, tuna or chicken and toss with your favorite dressing.