When I first began cooking for myself, I can remember entire meals that consisted of a large lump of beef I’d cooked in the slowcooker all day. That’s it: just a pile of beef in the middle of the plate.
Now, I’m not knocking the all-beef meal. After all, beef is delicious. But it’s probably not the first step on a journey to good health and long life.
My next change was simple: I began adding a box of mac and cheese or a cup of rice plus a can of green beans to meals. That worked, and to be honest I still frequently use a variation of this strategy.
But then one of my children developed an allergy to all legumes, including beans and peas, and most of my canned vegetable options went right out the window.
Besides, now I’m feeding a family of five — including three kids who get all their nutrition at home these days. And I have developed diabetes myself. Now it is more important than ever to pair my entrees with healthy sides that my family will willingly eat.
Don’t get me wrong. I still serve my fair share (or maybe more than my fair share) of microwaved frozen vegetables, especially broccoli and cauliflower. And I grab a bagged salad on most grocery trips.
But I also make a real effort to cook vegetables with my meals. One fact remains, though: the prep has to be simple. I’m just not willing to create a balsamic reduction or a cheese sauce on an ordinary Tuesday evening.
So I’m sharing a few recipes with you today that fit the bill: the prep is fairly simple and the recipe requires minimal ingredients. Yes, it’s going to dirty a few more dishes. But for me, these are worth it.
Amelia Plair is a mom and high school teacher in Starkville. Email reaches her at [email protected].
SAUTEED BRUSSELS SPROUTS
Serves 5
3 slices bacon
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 cup water
1 teaspoon chicken bouillon (I use Better Than Bouillon)
1/2 pound Brussels sprouts, halved lengthwise (you can purchase these already halved at most grocery stores)
ROASTED SWEET POTATO CUBES
Sweet potatoes (I use 2-4 potatoes, depending on size, for 4 people)
1-2 tablespoons oil
Pinch salt
2 tablespoons salted butter
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