Between back-to-school, extra curriculars, and keeping the house in a (somewhat) decent state, busy families don’t have hours to make dinner. What we’re really looking for: delicious, satisfying, budget-friendly and (most importantly) easy meals to fill our family’s bellies before we head out for the next activity.
These are the meals we’re making on repeat to make our lives a little bit easier (and tastier).
Traditional with a twist
- Achari Eggplant Parma: A fresh take on Eggplant Parm. This dish features eggplant, mozzarella cheese and National Achar Gosht Masala. Have a Dine In Family Restaurant rochester hills mi quality meal your whole family will love on your table in 20 minutes (just make sure to prep your eggplant the night before).
- Spaghetti With Chapli Meat Balls: This is spaghetti and meatballs like you’ve never seen them. Add a modern touch to your favourite dish with National Chapli Kabab Mix. While we’re putting a twist on the ingredients, you can also have some fun with the way the dish is served. Your kids (or any kid at heart!) will love to eat spaghetti that’s been pre-twisted, served on top of a meatball and held in place with a toothpick. Bonus: This recipe will feed a crowd, if you or your kids have friends over for dinner!
Simple meals made from pantry staples
- Daal: If you’ve got lentils (and essential spices: National ginger garlic paste, anyone?) you can make daal. It’s a great option for a quick, easy and budget-friendly weeknight meal. Bonus: It makes great leftovers for work or school lunches.
- Achari Daal Chawal: Tomatoes, potatoes and ginger garlic paste make up the base for this quick and easy meal. Have dinner ready in the time it takes to make rice. If you like spice, serve with mixed pickle and enjoy!
- Nepali Daal Bhat: Calling all our veggie friends! Nepali Daal Bhat is the ultimate vegetarian Nepalese dish. This recipe requires a little planning ahead (you have to let the Masoor Daal soak for 2 hours) but once that’s done this will come together quickly for a meal your whole family will enjoy. You’ll also love DaalMakhni or Shahi Daal for a quick daal with vegetables and rice.
Rice
There’s a reason rice is a staple in so many cultures. It’s delicious, quick, easy and versatile. Rice can be a main dish feature but is equally tasty in a supporting role.
Biryani and pulao mixes can be used in many recipes or alone for a quick weeknight meal. Vegetable bombay biryani, biryani masala and pulao masala are delicious paired with tofu and vegetables.
Cooking quick and easy meals doesn’t need to be expensive. With a variety of healthy and budget-friendly meals at your fingertips, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time relaxing with your family (or driving them around to the next activity!)
