Easy, On-Demand Dinners

(Family Features) Nearly everyone wishes for an extra hour or two in the day. When juggling evenings filled with homework, practices, games and last-minute art projects, even just 60 extra minutes could make the difference in finding time to whip up a dinner you can be proud of. While there’s no changing the fact that there are 24 hours each day, there are some time-saving options for creating family dinners that feel like they’ve come together “on-demand.”

Cube, spiralize or pound. No matter what shape you choose, decreasing the thickness of your ingredients is key to helping them cook through quickly. Think chicken breast cut into hunks for kabobs, thinly sliced Korean-style beef or zucchini turned into “zoodles.” With increased surface area and high heat, you may be surprised at just how quick you can have food on your plate.

Homemade tasting, on-demand sides. Rounding out your menu with easy-to-make sides can be a huge time-saver, and you sacrifice nothing if you rely on choices that deliver the same taste as if you had prepared them from scratch. For example, Idahoan Mashed Potatoes are real potatoes, real easy, delivering homemade taste on-demand. Made from 100 percent real Idaho potatoes, they can be served in just minutes and offer high-quality taste and texture, just like homemade. The variety of flavors are perfectly blended with real cheese and authentic seasonings, and options include Buttery Homestyle, Roasted Garlic, Cheddar & Sour Cream, Loaded Baked and more, so you can find a match for just about any meal.

Marinate meat before freezing. A rich marinade can add delightful flavor to a wide range of proteins, but marinating a dish takes time. Speed up the clock by marinating meat ahead of time before freezing it. Then, on a busy weeknight, all you have to do is thaw and cook for a well-seasoned meal in minutes.

Rethink leftovers. The remains from a delicious dinner shouldn’t go to waste, and they don’t have to if you repurpose them into another meal. For example, you could reimagine grilled or roasted chicken into soft tacos or a protein-rich salad. Or you can add protein and seasonings to leftover pasta for a whole new meal. If you find the fridge full of odds and ends, make it a reheat-and-eat, quick smorgasbord meal. After all, what often matters most is that everyone eats a nourishing meal together, whether the same exact foods are on their plate or not. It can be even better when this nourishing meal comes together in the blink of an eye.

Find more tips and ideas for creating delectable family dinners at Idahoan.com.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (family eating together)

A Comforting Breakfast to Savor this Season

Bring new holiday traditions to life with a warm, wholesome morning meal

(Family Features) As the busy holiday season approaches, take time to relax and make family memories with a delicious breakfast at home. Bringing loved ones together doesn’t always need to involve an elaborate gathering. Sometimes, a warm, cozy morning meal is all you need.

With wholesome nutrition top of mind for many moms, incorporating milk into your family’s routine can be a simple way to get important nutrients like protein, calcium and vitamin D. When you use real, farm fresh, dairy milk in your favorite holiday recipes, you can feel good knowing that it provides a natural nutrient package that is hard to match in any other single food or beverage.

During this holiday season, bring the family together to enjoy savory comfort foods, like this homemade twist on classic hash browns. Made with ingredients you can feel good about, like nutritious milk, crisp vegetables and fresh herbs, this potato hash is sure to become a new favorite. It’s served with an 8-ounce glass of milk for an extra nutrient boost that helps everyone power through the busy holiday season.

For more recipes to bring the family together during the holiday season, visit milklife.com.

Garlic Herb Potato Hash

• 3          tablespoons unsalted butter
• 8          small red potatoes, skin-on and diced (about 3 cups)
• 1          red bell pepper, diced
• 3          teaspoons minced garlic
• 1          teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped, plus additional for topping
• 1          teaspoon fresh oregano, finely chopped, plus additional for topping
• 2          tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2/3       cup milk
• 1/4       teaspoon salt
• 1/4       teaspoon pepper
• 2          slices low-sodium turkey bacon, cooked near crispy
• 1/4       cup finely grated reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese

1. In large skillet over medium heat, melt butter then add potatoes, bell peppers, garlic, thyme and oregano, stirring occasionally until potatoes are fork-tender.
2. Sprinkle flour over potato mixture and stir to coat. Gradually stir in milk until sauce forms. Season with salt and pepper and stir in slices of turkey bacon. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese and cover, allowing to melt 1-2 minutes. Uncover and top with additional herbs, if desired, before serving.
3. Pair each serving with 8-ounce glass of milk.

Nutritional information per serving: 320 calories; 11 g fat; 6 g saturated fat; 45 mg cholesterol; 17 g protein; 38 g carbohydrates; 3 g fiber; 440 mg sodium; 434 mg calcium (45% of daily value). Nutrition figures based on using fat free milk, and include an 8-ounce glass of milk. 

Simply Savory Meals

(Family Features) Farm-fresh is what many families desire. Straight from the farm to your table is one of the best ways you can ensure you’re delivering a nutritious and delicious meal for family or friends.

Wholesome meals can bring everyone together around the dinner table; even little ones can enjoy flaky, baked fish, a nutritious potato-based side dish and a trendy-twist on a farm-fresh beverage with these fun, flavorful recipes.

Find more farm-fresh recipes at Culinary.net.

Delightfully Baked Fish

When it comes to baking fish, flaky and fresh can make for a great combination. For a classic meal with a seasoned flare, try this delicious baked fish with lemon pepper seasoning and onions. Find more traditional, tasty recipes at USDA.gov.

Baked Fish

Recipe courtesy of the United States Department of Agriculture
Servings: 4

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 1          pound fish fillets (whitefish, trout or tilapia)
• 1          onion, sliced
• 1/4       teaspoon salt
• 1/4       teaspoon black pepper
• 2          teaspoons vegetable oil
• 1/4       teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning (optional)

1. Heat oven to 350° F.
2. Place 12-inch piece of foil on counter. Coat foil with nonstick cooking spray. Place fillets in middle of foil. If fillets have skin, place skin-side down.
3. Spread sliced onions, salt, pepper and oil on top of fillets. Add lemon pepper seasoning, if desired. Fold foil over fish.
4. Place foil pouch on baking sheet and place in oven. Bake fish 15-20 minutes until fish reaches a minimum internal temperature of 145 F on a food thermometer and is flaky when tested with fork.
5. Divide into four portions and serve.

A Sensationally Simple Side Dish

When you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious side dish to complement any meal, look no further than this Fingerling Potato Salad. Made with nutrient-rich Wisconsin Potatoes and topped with a lemon dressing, this simple potato side packs plenty of flavor. Find more potato recipes at eatwisconsinpotatoes.com.

Fingerling Potato Salad

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6

• 1 1/2    pounds mixed Wisconsin fingerling potatoes
• 2          large lemons, divided
• 2          cups water
• 2          tablespoons coarse kosher salt
• 3          tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
• 3          tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 1/2    teaspoons whole cumin seeds
• 3/4       teaspoon whole coriander seeds
• pepper, to taste
• 4          green onions, thinly sliced
• 1/3       cup chopped fresh dill
• salt, to taste
• 2          cups baby arugula

1. In large pot of boiling, salted water, cook potatoes until just tender when pierced with fork, about 15 minutes. Drain and cool slightly.
2. Slice one lemon into 1/8-inch-thick rounds. In small saucepan, combine sliced lemon, water and kosher salt; bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer until lemon slices are tender, about 10 minutes. Drain lemons then coarsely chop.
3. Cut remaining lemon in half and squeeze out 2 tablespoons juice. In small bowl, mix chopped lemons, lemon juice, white balsamic vinegar and oil. Coarsely crush cumin and coriander seeds using mortar and pestle. Mix seeds into lemon dressing. Season, to taste, with pepper.
4. Cut lukewarm potatoes in half lengthwise. Place in large, shallow bowl. Mix in green onions and dill. Pour lemon dressing over and toss to coat. Season, to taste, with salt and pepper. Add arugula and toss gently. Serve lukewarm or at room temperature.

Farm-Fresh Festivities

Themed parties can be challenging, especially when you want everything to be perfect for your guests. Make your party simple and festive with these tips for planning your own farm-to-table gathering.

Mason jars
A farm-to-table classic, mason jars can be used for drinks or even to fill with flowers to make a beautiful, seasonal centerpiece for the table. Mason jars are clean, cute and easy to wash when the gathering is over.

Rustic vibe
Adding some rustic decor can help spruce up your table or serve as an accessory for your farm-to-table dinner party. Also consider adding a bit of fall-flare with decorations such as pumpkins, squash and brightly colored leaves.

Seasonal fare
It’s easy to get inspired with the variety of things you can find at your local farmers market. Ingredients like onions can be used in this Baked Fish recipe while a batch of locally sourced potatoes is the perfect foundation for a Fingerling Potato Salad.

From Farm to Glass

Many may be surprised to learn that milk is one of the original farm-to-table foods, typically arriving on grocery shelves in just two days (or 48 hours) from many family-owned and operated dairy farms. For a trendy twist on the farm-fresh beverage kids already love, try this DIY flavored milk recipe as a tasty start to the morning. To learn about milk’s journey from farm to glass, visit MilkLife.com.

Chocolate Banana Milk

Servings: 1

• 8          ounces fat free milk
• 1/2       large banana
• 1          teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder

1. Place 8 ounces milk, large banana and unsweetened cocoa powder in a blender and blend until just smooth. Enjoy!

Nutritional information per serving: 140 calories; 0 g fat; 0 g saturated fat; 5 mg cholesterol; 9 g protein; 29 g carbohydrates; 2 g fiber; 105 mg sodium; 306 mg calcium (30% of daily value).

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (Delightfully baked fish)

Festive Fun for St. Patrick’s Day

(Family Features) Turn your St. Patrick’s Day celebration into a chance to enjoy Irish heritage with hearty foods and a lively atmosphere. When it’s the one day each year it’s acceptable to pinch non-conforming friends and family, it’d be a shame not to go all out.

These few simple tips can help you put together the perfect party to revel in all things green – and tasty.

• Decorate with purpose. Everyone knows that green is the color of the day, but go one step further by incorporating it into different items. Banners and streamers work fine, but setting out green candles or even adorning your light fixtures with green bulbs can help you take an extra step forward.
• Create active fun. Instead of limiting your guests to dining and conversation, plan some simple activities to help the fun flow. Games like a “treasure hunt” for gold coins, limerick-writing competitions or even just turning up Irish-themed music can help get the party started.
• Eat festively. Turn your party’s food and drinks into true Irish dining with some delicious recipes like this American Irish Stew, which includes beef, onion, carrots and potatoes for a tasty cultural meal to fill all of your hungry guests.

For more hosting tips and the perfect themed recipes for any occasion, visit culinary.net.

American Irish Stew
Reprinted with permission from the American Institute for Cancer Research
Servings: 6

• 1          tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 1/4    pounds beef, top round, cut into 3/4-inch pieces
• 3          cloves garlic, minced
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 1          medium onion, coarsely chopped
• 3          medium carrots, peeled and cut into 3/4-inch pieces
• 2          medium parsnips, cut into large chunks (optional)
• 3          cups low-fat, reduced-sodium beef broth
• 4          medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks
• 1          tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
• 1          leek, coarsely chopped
• 2          tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

1. In large pot over medium-high heat, heat oil. Add beef and garlic. Cook, gently stirring until meat is evenly browned. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Add onion, carrots and parsnips. Cook 3-4 minutes. Stir in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer about 75 minutes, or until meat is tender.
3. Stir in potatoes and simmer another 30 minutes. Add rosemary and leeks. Continue to simmer, uncovered, until potatoes are tender. To avoid potatoes falling apart, do not overcook.
4. Serve hot and garnish with parsley, if desired.

Nutritional information per serving: 370 calories, 8 g total fat (2 g saturated fat), 43 g carbohydrate, 32 g protein, 6 g dietary fiber, 427 mg sodium.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

A Soup-er Meal Solution

(Family Features) One-pot meals are all the rage, but the original dinner you could make in a single dish still stands the test of time. Whether your tastes tend toward hearty or light, soup is the perfect answer for a simple, fuss-free meal at home or the office.

As if you needed more motivation, these five reasons explain why you should grab your favorite spoon and settle in to enjoy a big bowl of piping hot soup.

Weight management. Most experts agree portion control is one of the most important aspects of weight management. With the right ingredients, a single bowl of soup can provide plenty of satiety to carry you comfortably to your next meal. No matter what diet plan you follow, you’re sure to find an array of soups that fit your needs.

Quick and easy preparation. A pot that simmers all day is a surprisingly easy way to put dinner on the table. Simply throw all your ingredients in a giant pot or a slow cooker and walk away. Or for a meal in mere minutes, you can rely on a store-bought option that tastes homemade. Delicious Idahoan Premium Steakhouse Potato Soups bring together real Idaho red potatoes with flavorful spices and rich cheeses to provide a creamy taste in every spoonful that is ready in just 5 minutes. The steakhouse-style soups are available in four flavor varieties: Creamy Potato, Loaded Potato, Cheddar Broccoli and Three Cheese Chipotle.

Affordability. Even if your wallet is stretched thin, it’s easy to scrape together a handful of inexpensive ingredients to create a soup from scratch. You can even use leftovers or odds and ends from the pantry or freezer. Another way to make those grocery dollars stretch or to curb your work week lunchtime spending is to visit the soup aisle for a wide variety of meals you can pick up for a modest price.

Boost veggie intake. Most soups provide an ample serving of veggies in every bowl, making it easy to reap the health benefits, including a vast number of vitamins and minerals. There’s also a practical reason that soup is in high demand when you’re feeling under the weather. Many vegetables contain anti-inflammatory properties, and a steamy bowl of broth-rich soup can help ease clogged sinuses. For those who typically avoid veggies, remember that it’s easy to hide them in broth or among other ingredients.

Versatility. Soup is the ultimate adapter. You can find soups representing nearly every flavor imaginable and ethnic influences from around the world. When you purchase ready-made soups, you can switch gears after just one bowl to satisfy virtually any flavor your taste buds crave.

Explore more soup-er mealtime solutions at Idahoan.com.  

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (family in kitchen)