What's for Supper?

Do you ever come home after a long day and ask yourself "What's for supper?". I did just that yesterday afternoon. Most of the time I have an idea of what I am going to prepare for the evening meal, but not yesterday! I had given little thought to supper throughout the day. I try to keep staple items in my pantry to prepare a quick fast meal at home instead of taking the easy yet costly route of the drive-thru window.

I strongly believe that eating at home is the best possible situation for my family. First it is healthier because I am in control of the portion size. Portions in restaurants are very distorted! Second cooking at home is more budget friendly. And lastly I actually know what I am feeding my family because I have control of the ingredients. Your situation may be different. AND that's okay! You have to weigh your options and make the best decision for your family. We all lead busy schedules and no two days are alike for any family. The key is that you have a game plan of some sort. This is what I lacked yesterday!

If you have never tried cooking you should give it a shot sometime. Food is costly today and restaurants are high priced. Try making your own meals! You can control your food dollars simply by cooking exactly what your family needs at home. Try your hand at "My Plate Skillet Meals" sometime soon (see below on how to prepare skillet meals). You control everything. It is simple. Keep a few staple items in your pantry and you can whip up supper in less than 30 minutes any evening of the week.

My Plate Skillet Meals 

Grain Group 

1 cup uncooked 

Rice 

Pasta 

Other 

Vegetable Group 

1½-2 cups bite-sized pieces (canned, cooked, raw, frozen)

Broccoli  

Celery 

Onion 

Peppers 

Others 

Protein Group 

1 cup, bite-sized, cooked 

Ground meat 

Fish 

Tofu, TVP or TSP 

Beans 

Other proteins 

Sauce 

2¼ cup liquid

Tomato sauce 

Canned soup and 1¼ cup water  

Nonfat sour cream or plain yogurt, blended 

Spaghetti sauce 

Other 

Spices 

½ tsp. or more to taste 

(choose 2 or more)

Oregano 

Onion powder 

Garlic powder 

Salt and pepper 

Curry 

Other 

Topping 

¼ to ½ cup 

Grated or sliced cheese 

Bread crumbs 

Crushed crackers 

Other 

Directions: 

1. Choose at least one food from each group (may use 2 or more from each group). All foods should be bite-sized pieces. 
2. To cook: In a large skillet stir all foods accept topping together. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to lowest setting. Cover and simmer 30 minutes or until pasta and rice are tender. Stir occasionally. Add more liquid if it becomes too dry. Add topping before serving.

Tip: For a faster skillet meal use pre-cooked rice or pasta. Raw vegetables may be stir fried before adding to meal.

So...."What's for Supper" tonight in your home? 

Source: Oregon State University Extension Service Lane County