Step 1: Learn the skills of meal planning
A super important set of meal planning skills that I teach to all my clients helps them become more organized and less stressed in their kitchens. And, believe it or not, my lesson to them relies on a practical, simple model – the paper plate! Not only is a paper plate easy to find and cheap, but it makes meal planning like doing a puzzle instead of doing confusing homework.
Step 2: Pick out a food, like chicken, to anchor your meal plan
I would have to say that chicken is probably the #1 favorite anchor to everyone’s meal plan. Take a look at this blog where I describe how to roast a whole chicken as well as sensible meals to use up the leftover, cooked chicken. After adding chicken to your meal plan as shown in the example here, then it’s time to move on to your sides.
Step 3: Add sides to balance your meal plan
Side dishes are what will round-out your meal. So, spend some time thinking of what will taste great and also nourish your body well. It’s nice to include a starchy vegetable, or whole grain, on your meal plan as well as a non-starchy vegetable. In the example above, the sweet potato is a starchy vegetable and the snow peas are a non-starchy vegetable. Done.
Step 4: Finish your meal plan with fruit for dessert
A sweet fruit is the perfect dessert for every meal. Not only that, but it balances the meal’s nutrition for your body. Seasonal fruits are great choices for a meal plan, and do mix it up with a fruit salad when you have time. For a special occasion, here are some desserts made with less sugar. Or, try featuring a fruit in your special occasion dessert with homemade blueberry crisp!
Step 5: Add a sensible drink to complete your meal plan
To complete your meal, make a sensible and simple drink choice. Water, 1% milk, plain or herb tea, or black coffee are all good ones. To maximize nutrition, make the dinner table a ‘no soft drink zone.’ This effort will pay off big when you take the kids to their dentist and doctor appointments.
Meal Planning with a Paper Plate is Nutrition Magic
If you are looking for some nutrition magic for yourself and those you love, it’s time to try meal planning with a paper plate. Buy a package of paper plates, get out some markers, and fire up a meal planning party. The kids and teens in your family might surprise you at how this grabs their attention and creativity. And, by planning, their opinion will also be heard. Try it, and let me know how it goes. My services are available in the Winston-Salem, NC area and I’m ready to give you a hands-on lesson with meal planning! Or, outside Winston-Salem, join me on Facebook for daily tips on meal planning, smart grocery shopping and more!
What meal will you plan first?