Not a fan of cooking? Too busy to cook? Stop fooling yourself! Let’s face it – no matter how busy or hectic your life is, nourishing yourself and eating healthy can slip down the priority list. Healthy eating shouldn’t be difficult or time consuming, nor does it equate to ‘diet food’. Eating healthy does require somewhat of an effort. With a few strategies under your sleeve you’ll be able to prepare quick and healthy meals and get dinner on the table with ease.
There are a many advantages to making your own meals. It’s definitely less expensive than dining out. You know exactly what ingredients go into your food. Best of all you get to appreciate the effort and reap the satisfaction of knowing you ate healthy. Keep meals simple. Delicious, healthy food does not have to be complicated. Strategic planning such as having a few ‘go-to’ recipes on hand, keeping a well-stocked pantry with basic items, and writing out a grocery list will minimize your shopping time and maximize your kitchen time.
Planning ahead is a must in order to get ahead in the kitchen. Your time is too precious to spend hours preparing and cooking, yet it’s just as important to remember not to confuse ‘quick and easy’ for good food. Plan your meals a week in advance to avoid any pitfalls. Purchase proteins in bulk that can be frozen and defrosted when needed. Regardless if you’re cooking for yourself or your family, make extra. Leftovers can be your lunch or re-served in a couple days. Got a slow cooker? With a little effort and a little less attention you can create a one-pot meal. The most you’d have to worry about is the cleanup!
Food is personal. We’ll always have an ongoing relation with food. It’s an extension of who we are. Cook food you enjoy. Get inspired by new ingredients. Allow yourself to have fun and let creativity flow in the kitchen. Sometimes a mistake will result in a new flavor! As the fabulous Julia Child once said, “You don’t have to cook fancy or complicated masterpieces – just good food from fresh ingredients.”
Guest Writer – Cristina Gonzalez – Novoa
Catering by Cristina is all about helping you create intimate and social dining experiences. Simple ingredients, bold flavors, and seasonal items guide Cristina in personalizing your menu. Whatever the occasion – dinner party, special event, impromptu mixer, business function – it should be simple and elegant. She helps make life a little easier so you don’t have to tackle the kitchen on your own. After all, entertaining your guests should be fun! Cristina Gonzalez is a Los Angeles based chef & owner of Catering by Cristina. Connect with her at cateringbycristina.com