Now We're Cookin'

I have mentioned before that I am a bit of a ‘lazy cook’. In my defense, I find that the more ingredients added to a dish usually increase the amount of calories, salt, and fat. Also, it is challenging to have an open flame with a pre-schooler running around the kitchen tormenting the cat! It also seems that anytime I try to boil or simmer something, my daughter suddenly needs help in the bathroom. This is both dangerous and disgusting, resulting in half-cooked food going into the garbage. And yes I will admit it; I am really not much of a cook. (I am a very good baker though!).

However, occasionally I would like to make healthy, nutritious, and delicious meals for my family.  To do this I had to get a bit creative. I bought a slow-cooker last winter, and an indoor grill recently. These kitchen tools allow me to cook without worrying about burning my house down when I am called away from the kitchen. I also keep them far back on the counters to avoid being knocked over by a cat running from a child who is trying to put a tiara on his head and a mask on his face! (Yes, this is just a normal day in my kitchen)

To get my daughter involved in cooking, I bought her a children’s cookbook. This isn’t really a ‘cook’ book since none of the recipes involve the stove or oven. I have her flip through and pick out the vegetables and fruits she wants to use. I also let her use this book to pick out meals on the days I do not cook (which is most of the time). She chooses yogurt parfaits, PB&J sandwiches, smoothies, etc. When she chooses her own food from a book of healthy choices, she eats and enjoys it. I also involve her in making a grocery list. I ask her what she needs from the store. She actually asks me which store since she prefers string cheese from one store, the apples from another, etc. The trick is to make the choices about fruit, vegetables, lean meats, low-fat dairy, and whole grains. There is a lot to choose and children love to have their independence.

Another fun ‘tool’ I just purchased is a kitchen timer that looks like an owl. I told my daughter that it is hers and she is the only one who can use it. Yesterday I wanted to make a nice meal for my family. I bought mahi-mahi fish, organic spinach, garlic, onions, and avocado. I grilled the fish on my indoor grill but put my daughter in charge of setting the timer for 10 minutes and telling me when the fish was done. As she sat on the floor staring at the owl timer, I was able to cook the spinach with the garlic and onion using olive oil spray. She was way too busy being in charge of the main course to wreak havoc. She tells me that she doesn’t like avocado so I just cut it up and put it out on the table not offering her any. As soon as she saw her daddy eat some, she decided to try it and now she likes it. For some reason she thinks if daddy eats it, it has to be good.

We had a wonderful family meal. I think I may try to do this more often! Now off to check my smoke alarm batteries….

Have a wonderful and healthy week

XOX

This blog is for informational purposes only.  It’s not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health problem, nor is it intended to replace the advice of a physician.  No action should be taken solely on the contents of this website.  Always consult your physician or qualified health professional on any matters regarding your health. It is advised see your physician before changing your diet, starting an exercise program, or taking any supplements of any kind.