by Stefanie Plum, Gather Partner Team
Member since:
February 19, 2008

Live Chat on 30-minute meal plans, 9/17 @ 4PM ET. Win 50 Gather Points™ and "The Illustrated Quick Cook"

September 16, 2009 04:54 PM UTC (Updated: September 16, 2009 05:12 PM UTC)
views: 0 | comments: 274

As a parent, you take care of the kids, pick them up from school, do household chores, work – and the list goes on and on. You may be busy, but you and your family can still enjoy a meal prepared from scratch. When you have a limited amount of time, what do you make?

Gather wants you to share your timing saving tips for creating home-cooked meals when you only have 30-minutes to spare. Join us in a live chat on this topic Thursday, September 17th 4-5PM ET. The chat is scheduled right before dinner. We hope you can learn something new for your next meal!

Gather will draw five people who participate to win 50 Gather Points™ each and DK Publishing’s new book, The Illustrated Quick Cook.

The chat takes place in the comment field of this post. Refresh your internet browser to see new comments appear.


http://media-files.gather.com/images/d183/d818/d745/d224/d96/f3/full.jpg

One entry per person who participates in the chat. No purchase necessary. See official rules.

Comments: 274

busy reader g. Sep 16, 2009, 5:00pm UTC
send me a reminder please!
Stefanie Plum, Gather Partner Team Sep 16, 2009, 5:03pm UTC
Golds, I will be sending a notification out to the Parenting group tomorrow. If you're not already, become a member before then to get the reminder.
d d. Sep 16, 2009, 5:02pm UTC
sounds good, hope i remember.
Lori B. Sep 16, 2009, 5:23pm UTC
please send me a reminder!!
I'll definitely make it a point to catch this chat.
Kat W. Sep 16, 2009, 6:18pm UTC
I'll try to remember to be here.
♠~Dnbuster~♠ ~. Sep 16, 2009, 10:16pm UTC
sounds like a great chat!!
Tracy F. Sep 17, 2009, 10:17am UTC
I'll be at work, but try to remember to join in..
MaryAnne Flynn Sep 17, 2009, 11:45am UTC
This chat looks great. I never like to spend more than 30 minutes prepping dinner.
Mary M. Sep 17, 2009, 2:33pm UTC
I don't think I'll be home. Darn!
Mary M. Sep 17, 2009, 2:34pm UTC
I try to keep several different types of meat or chicken in the freezer and pull one out to thaw the night before or the morning of. Not always easy to remember but in case I forget, I keep easy to fix rice and pasta on hand as well. A pound of ground beef, hamburger buns, a can of Sloppy Joe sauce, bagged salad, and a canned veggie like green beans or corn or baked beans is a family favorite with the kids.
Julie F. Sep 17, 2009, 2:39pm UTC
The chat is right before dinner on the east coast...here in Phoenix, it's in the middle of my workday. :( Sounds like it'd be fun, I'll check on the chat later before my dinner to see if I can find any good ideas?
lamarana s. Sep 17, 2009, 2:45pm UTC
i will b be here on time what time will it be in the UK?
Angela A. Sep 17, 2009, 3:35pm UTC
I hope I can make it.
Maybe hubby will help our son with homework, so I can!
Then, again, he may not make it home on time. Poo!
Crystal T. Sep 17, 2009, 3:52pm UTC
I hope I can make it too, I get confused with the time difference. What time will it be here in Samoa? PST?
Jonbonjovious M. Sep 17, 2009, 4:00pm UTC
Are we ready to roll?
Jonbonjovious M. Sep 17, 2009, 4:02pm UTC
When you have a limited amount of time, what do you make? With the fall weather here, nothing warms us like a bowl of good soup. When time is limited, I make a roux out of olive oil and flour, then add 5 cups of milk, left over baked potatoes, some grilled onions, any type of left over meat, salt, pepper, rosemary and let it simmer for 20 minutes. It's easy and wholesome and saves soooo much time...plus it's a great way to get rid of leftovers!
Nancy S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:08pm UTC
that sounds great
sally g. Sep 17, 2009, 4:03pm UTC
hi everyone
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:03pm UTC
When you have a limited amount of time, what do you make?
I try to make extra food when I have spare time, so I can just pull something out when I'm in a hurry. One of the advantages of having a big freezer!
Jonbonjovious M. Sep 17, 2009, 4:03pm UTC
Great ideas...it's easy to double a recipe and freeze half
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:04pm UTC
Exactly! Cooking twice as much rarely adds much to the prep time!
Nancy S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:06pm UTC
cool idea, I will have to try that too!
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:04pm UTC
I make casseroles and instead of using one large pan I use 2 smaller ones - one goes into the freezer and one goes into the oven!
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:14pm UTC
I do this a lot, as well as crockpot meals that I freeze half the pot!
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:17pm UTC
That's a good idea too!
ChrisJerri S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:04pm UTC
I'm basically a thirty minute meal person.
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:04pm UTC
Almost all pasta meals can be made in 30 minutes.
Tracy F. Sep 17, 2009, 4:14pm UTC
I usually cheat and use store bought sauces. Pasta's always quick that way lol!
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:24pm UTC
And still easy, especially with a crock pot!
Heather M. Sep 17, 2009, 4:05pm UTC
Good afternoon, everyone.

When I have limited time (or limited energy), I tend to go with pasta. It's quick; it's easy, and it's versatile.
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:05pm UTC
And I like TVP tacos - they only take about 15 minutes!
Heather M. Sep 17, 2009, 4:11pm UTC
That sounds good. I haven't had tacos in a long while; I'll have to pick up the stuff for them the next time I'm in the store.
Nancy S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:05pm UTC
When I have a llimited amount of time we sometimes have breakfast for dinner, like pancakes or eggs and bacon. I does break up the routine of trying to figure out what to have too!
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:16pm UTC
I do this often! I don't eat breakfast, except for dinner!
ChrisJerri S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:05pm UTC
Tonight I'm thinking vegetarian chili. I'll go to the garden, get a green bell pepper, a couple of tomatoes, and add a can of kidney beans, garbonzo beans, onion and spices, and also some squash from the garden.
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:07pm UTC
That sounds delicious!
ChrisJerri S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:11pm UTC
Thanks, I'm trying to decide whether to use that as topping over pasta or tortilla chips. My husband will probably opt for the tortilla chips. If I use tortilla chips I'll make some side quacamole which is quick - I scoop out an avocado and add about two tbs of salsa and sea salt to the food processor.
Heather M. Sep 17, 2009, 4:13pm UTC
That sounds good. I've never done garbonzo beans in chili.

I usually use Boca crumbles as the "meat" of the dish.
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:13pm UTC
I'd like it over a nice baked potato! Mmm! Are you vegetarian? I almost am - I occasionally eat seafood.
Tracy F. Sep 17, 2009, 4:13pm UTC
never tried to make my on guacamole.. you make it sound so easy, maybe I'll try it!
ChrisJerri S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:18pm UTC
I used to be scared of making a lot of this stuff, but now I just throw everything together, and it usually turns out pretty good. That is the easiest way to make quacamole, especially if you have a really good salsa that you like. I use Green Mountain Gringo. One day I'm going to make my own from the garden, but tomatoes came very late this year, and not so many.

Yes, I'm vegetarian as is my husband.
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:20pm UTC
That's great! I wish my husband was - he eats more and more veggies every day though!
sally g. Sep 17, 2009, 4:06pm UTC
Me and my family love eating my home made vegetable soup. It never last one day. And I make it in a big pot. Lots of vegetables,burger mixed in it,tomato juice,powdered beef broth,fine chopped onion and cabbage if you like it.
ChrisJerri S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:18pm UTC
Do you ever use lentils in it?
sally g. Sep 17, 2009, 4:23pm UTC
Know I have never tried that in the soup. Sorry didn't see you message till now Chris.
ChrisJerri S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:06pm UTC
Yes, pasta with stir fry veggies or steamed veggies takes little time.
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:06pm UTC
I also like making quinoa salads when I'm short on time - I've got a couple of recipes posted that use it!
Jonbonjovious M. Sep 17, 2009, 4:08pm UTC
Grilled chicken with microwaved potatoes and some steamed veggies is an easy and fast meal with little prep.

You all have such great ideas!
ChrisJerri S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:08pm UTC
Then there is always leftovers. One night I took a left over Indian rice dish, left over quesdilla filling I had made which was mainly green peppers and onion with some garlic, and added beans on top of that. That now has turned out to be one of my staple meals.
Tracy F. Sep 17, 2009, 4:10pm UTC
ooh.. might have to try that.. I'm indian, and so we always have leftover rice dishes!
ChrisJerri S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:13pm UTC
I have really been trying to learn Indian dishes lately. I did two last night - and they were quick - a ginger asparagus dish and masala potatoes.
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:16pm UTC
The asparagus sounds good!
ChrisJerri S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:21pm UTC
I have a picture of it up on gather - last article.
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:09pm UTC
And of course there is always the option of a great big salad!
Tracy F. Sep 17, 2009, 4:11pm UTC
Thai salads are really good. I'm trying to recreate the spicy peanut dressing they use, but haven't been successful yet.
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:14pm UTC
I love the spicy peanut dressing you can get at thai places! I've tried to recreate them too without luck - it's always missing just a little something!
Tracy F. Sep 17, 2009, 4:09pm UTC
I love to make soups.. tomato basil is my favourite, and the tomatoes I've seen this year have been awesome!

I'm also a fan of stir fry's which are very quick and you can use whatever veggies you have on hand.
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:10pm UTC
I love homemade soup and veggie stir fries as well!
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:10pm UTC
It's pretty easy to cook 30 minute meals these days since you can get veggies already prepped if time is of the essence.
Tracy F. Sep 17, 2009, 4:12pm UTC
pre-cut veggies are a bit pricey for my budget, but I do clean and prep a lot of it as soon as I bring it home from the grocery store.
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:15pm UTC
They are for me too - I'm like you, I prep them when I have spare time and cook with them later. Usually when I'm feeding Little Miss dinner I get the veggies prepped for my dinner!
sally g. Sep 17, 2009, 4:10pm UTC
I like making potato soup it is fast and easy and my kids like it. Chicken and steak salads are good to and a fast meal.
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:13pm UTC
Chicken breasts with a medley o' fresh or frozen veggies is perfect anytime, as well as quick cooking! I also like spinach salads with grilled chicken breast...yummy & healthy too.
sally g. Sep 17, 2009, 4:16pm UTC
that sounds yummy
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:18pm UTC
Anytime I see chicken breasts on sale in the family pack, I buy them up & put in portioned baggies, then it's easy to defrost for a quickie yummy!
sally g. Sep 17, 2009, 4:20pm UTC
we buy big bags of chicken all the time. I never go without chicken being in the house. Its healthy.
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:23pm UTC
Same here! And great for BBQ too!
sally g. Sep 17, 2009, 4:25pm UTC
I agree with you Ruthi. I love to cookout. We make corn on the cob on the grill and its so good.
sally g. Sep 17, 2009, 4:26pm UTC
I have been cutting up squash and freezing it. Its yummy on the grill to.
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:28pm UTC
Yes, and eggplant is one of my favorites grilled, with a bit o' butter & garlic & parmesan.
sally g. Sep 17, 2009, 4:33pm UTC
Now that sounds really good.
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:46pm UTC
It is Sally! I do the same thing with squashes & zuchinnis, but eggplant's my favorite.
ChrisJerri S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:14pm UTC
Vegetarian tempura is also really quick.
Tracy F. Sep 17, 2009, 4:15pm UTC
In the summer.. we sometimes just throw a few burgers on the grill, and have a variety of toppings.
Misc M. Sep 17, 2009, 4:24pm UTC
I do love a grilled burger!
The original comment in this thread has been deleted by its author.
Heather M. Sep 17, 2009, 4:18pm UTC
That it does. Plus, it is usually less expensive going that route.
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:18pm UTC
I guess that is why most of my meals are less than 30 minutes - they're usually meatless!
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:19pm UTC
And healthier too!
Misc M. Sep 17, 2009, 4:18pm UTC
My husband and I usually have quick to prepare mills. High fiber soup and some whole grain cereal for "bread." Those types of things. Usually wash it down with a glass of V8.
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:19pm UTC
I love V-8 and cook with it a lot, especially the spicy V-8!
Tracy F. Sep 17, 2009, 4:18pm UTC
Fish generally doesn't take a lot of time to cook, and doesn't need a lot of seasonings to be flavourful
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:20pm UTC
Tracy, have you made fish tacos? I love them!
Tracy F. Sep 17, 2009, 4:21pm UTC
You know.. I never have.. and I've been hearing so much about them lately. Maybe it's a sign that I should try it.
Lori Cee Sep 17, 2009, 4:22pm UTC
i keep hearing good things about fish tacos.
Heather M. Sep 17, 2009, 4:26pm UTC
Fish tacos are good.
ChrisJerri S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:20pm UTC
Cous cous is also really fast. I either stir fry veggies that I have on hand or steam them to put over the cous cous. I love using red bell peppers a lot. I love color in meals.
Tracy F. Sep 17, 2009, 4:22pm UTC
cous cous is mediterranean is it not? trying to figure out what could go with it. (I'm a big meat eater.. not the healthiest, i know!)
There are so many 30 minute meals that can be made. Sandwiches and/or pannini's; I make a homemade Hamburger helper with my own pasta that cooks while the meat is cooking (seasoned also), and I add either a jar or Ragu cheese creations or a cheese sauce that I can throw together quickly myself. Do ahead meals are great also if you know you will be pressed for time on a certain day. Planning ahead is always the best way for me.
ChrisJerri S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:23pm UTC
Love pannini's.
Bridget Jean Sep 17, 2009, 4:21pm UTC
I almost forgot about this chat, my bad!

Sheperds Pie is always a quick and easy choice! And everyone in our family likes it!
Stacey Mamasaid Sep 17, 2009, 4:23pm UTC
One of our favorites in a hurry!
ChrisJerri S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:26pm UTC
I have to learn to make vegetarian sheperds pie.
Lori Cee Sep 17, 2009, 4:22pm UTC
good afternoon, ladies! how is everyone?
Bridget Jean Sep 17, 2009, 4:22pm UTC
Hi Lori! I'm good, how are you?
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:23pm UTC
Doing good! How are you?
Lori Cee Sep 17, 2009, 4:23pm UTC
good to see you, bridget. how are you making out being alone during the day?
Lori Cee Sep 17, 2009, 4:24pm UTC
hey, april! how's that sweet baby?
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:27pm UTC
About to go pick her up! She's been so good this week - I've been sick, so we haven't gotten to have as much fun as we usually do, but she's been a trooper!
Bridget Jean Sep 17, 2009, 4:22pm UTC
Grilled Ham & cheese sandwiches with a cup of soup is another great choice!
Tracy F. Sep 17, 2009, 4:23pm UTC
ooh.. that takes me back to my childhood.. yummy!
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:22pm UTC
Sloppy Lennies is another fast and easy meal.
Tracy F. Sep 17, 2009, 4:24pm UTC
I've heard of sloppy Joes, but sloppy Lennies????
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:27pm UTC
Made with lentils instead of hamburger!
Tracy F. Sep 17, 2009, 4:32pm UTC
Ahhh!
*Sandi*'s Bacon Cheeseburger Quiche was so very quick to throw together. It made a nice meal for 4 and we had a bit leftover for a lunch one day.
Heather M. Sep 17, 2009, 4:28pm UTC
I totally spaced when I went shopping yesterday. I need to check that recipe and figure out what I need for my own variation on it.
penni d. Sep 17, 2009, 4:23pm UTC
almost any meat tastes good with a basil based vinegarette marinade.... then broil, don't bake...broiling takes very little time.
Lori Cee Sep 17, 2009, 4:27pm UTC
penni, you're letting all of your secrets out, right? so don't act like you're not in a cooking mood when i get there!
penni d. Sep 17, 2009, 4:58pm UTC
Lol, lori...I am not a cook....I had a friend over for dinner yesterday and he said I'm not a cook at all...I am an ~Artist~ in the kitchen, I use what's there
penni d. Sep 17, 2009, 4:59pm UTC
Come on down, girlfriend! plenty for all! :)
Stacey Mamasaid Sep 17, 2009, 4:23pm UTC
Hi everyone! Rushing in to Gather as I make dinner ;)
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:23pm UTC
A 30 minute meal???
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:26pm UTC
That's the ticket!
Stacey Mamasaid Sep 17, 2009, 4:27pm UTC
Hmm, where did my salisbury steak, mashed potatoes and carrots go ;)
Bridget Jean Sep 17, 2009, 4:23pm UTC
Sloppy Joes!


I also have some TV dinners in the freezer just in case. We don't eat them often but are great for those nights when we are busy and don't have much time to fix anything else!
Lori Cee Sep 17, 2009, 4:24pm UTC
i haven't had a sloppy joe in years!
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:26pm UTC
I love sloppy joes...I add frozen corn to mine :-)
Stacey Mamasaid Sep 17, 2009, 4:27pm UTC
Mmm sloppy joes and corn...
Bridget Jean Sep 17, 2009, 4:29pm UTC
We had sloppy joes and corn for dinner last night! LOL! With tater tots!
Some days we just like omlettes made with bacon or maybe some corned beef hash on the side and it's a complete meal.
Bridget Jean Sep 17, 2009, 4:29pm UTC
We love having breakfast for dinner!
penni d. Sep 17, 2009, 4:24pm UTC
Grab an electric cook pan, slice your choice of veggies thin, quick stir fry...you can also cut meat thin and do the same...add to the veggies or serve seperate
Joy Blessing Sep 17, 2009, 4:48pm UTC
That sounds GREAT. i might add some terriyaki sauce to that and throw it over fried or even regular rice!
Misc M. Sep 17, 2009, 4:24pm UTC
We also tend to eat a lot of straight out the can foods, like canned chicken.
Pasta and a good jar sauce is wonderful. You can add meat and some ricotta cheese and make baked ziti in no time.
ChrisJerri S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:24pm UTC
I love tomatoes while they are in season and do lots of basil, tomato, mozarella dishes. We grow our own herbs as much as possible. I have lots of parsley right now. I should put some of that in the chili tonight.
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:28pm UTC
I grow my own herbs too! Unfortunately that is the only thing that grows well for me here!
Tracy F. Sep 17, 2009, 4:32pm UTC
We just bought a house, so I'm starting to grow some of my own stuff. So far I've got tomatoes, mint, green chillies, and basil.
Joy Blessing Sep 17, 2009, 4:50pm UTC
Cool! Wish I could gow something! I just kill everything!
Jonbonjovious M. Sep 17, 2009, 4:25pm UTC
All these ideas are making me hungry!
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:27pm UTC
YES!
Stacey Mamasaid Sep 17, 2009, 4:26pm UTC
A quick pesto sauce in the blender over pasta is good. Even quicker is creamed spinach with bits of chicken or ham over pasta. We love pasta around here :)
ChrisJerri S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:27pm UTC
I needed to use up spinach a couple of weeks ago and made a spinach pesto.
Lori Cee Sep 17, 2009, 4:28pm UTC
we've always got some type of pasta available.
Stacey Mamasaid Sep 17, 2009, 4:48pm UTC
Mmm, spinach pesto...yes we'd starve without it :) Hi Lori!
My teen has taken to Turkey meat tacos and they can be made in 15 minutes. I do that for him when he doesn't care for what we are having, or if his work schedule means he needs to have dinner at an odd hour.
Nancy S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:27pm UTC
Boy, Im getting a lot of great ideas from here
Joy Blessing Sep 17, 2009, 4:51pm UTC
Me too!
Mary G. Sep 17, 2009, 4:27pm UTC
When you have a limited amount of time, what do you make?
I have been making lean ground beef with a vegetable from the can like corn and having a bowl of fruit. I'm always looking for low calorie meals.
Stuffed Baked Potatoes. Microwave the potatoes and they're ready in minutes, top with what you like and bake for just a few minutes. You can top them with cheese and bacon or broccoli, chili, or whatever you'd like really.
Mary G. Sep 17, 2009, 4:29pm UTC
I see a lot of them have been posted on this chat.
ChrisJerri S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:29pm UTC
One easy salad is mixed salad greens, sliced pears, raisins, sliced almonds with poppy seed dressing.
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:30pm UTC
Ok Gatherers...think it's time to hit the fridge & figure out what's for dinner, hahaha! Nice to visit & thanks for some great ideas!
Stacey Mamasaid Sep 17, 2009, 4:30pm UTC
Quick rice and beans with Success rice, red beans, tomato sauce, onions, peppers and chili seasoning...
Barb Carlson Sep 17, 2009, 4:30pm UTC
You guys are making me hungry! I need some inspiration on what to make. My larder is rather sparse!
There's always good quality beef hot dogs and beans, maybe salad and/or starch on the side.
Mary G. Sep 17, 2009, 4:30pm UTC
We are having a baked potato tonight no cheese just plain, as I am getting use to eating plain potatoes.
♠~Dnbuster~♠ ~. Sep 17, 2009, 4:31pm UTC
Hi everyone!!
ChrisJerri S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:31pm UTC
Polenta is also quick and easy. You can add so many toppings to it. Tomatoes fresh out of the garden with parmesan is my favorite.
Heather M. Sep 17, 2009, 4:34pm UTC
Ooh... I haven't done polenta in a long while.
Tracy F. Sep 17, 2009, 4:35pm UTC
Never tried polenta.. yet anothing thing to add to the list of things to try!
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:35pm UTC
I made a mushroom ragu that I served over grits recently - it would be good on polenta too! (I think they are basically the same thing)
Lune Wolfsong Sep 17, 2009, 4:32pm UTC
Katie's listing many of mine - sandwiches, baked potatoes, tacos.

I love cooking up ahead and being able to just pull an entree or pre-cooked meat out of the freezer for occasions like this, too.
Sorry Lune, but ya' know great minds think alike. Lol. I just type faster, lol.
Lune Wolfsong Sep 17, 2009, 4:43pm UTC
:D
ChrisJerri S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:32pm UTC
Polenta and cous cous take five minutes, so I try to always have those on hand.
Brian H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:32pm UTC
I can't stay long - I'm usually just cooking for myself and am tired after a long day of working, so I usually just throw a burger on the George Foreman!
Stir fry some pieces of chicken, season it up well, when it's nicely done add a bag of frozen mixed veggies and serve over white rice. Healthy, quick and delicious.
Mary G. Sep 17, 2009, 4:35pm UTC
I'm going to do this one this weekend.
Teresa W. Sep 17, 2009, 4:39pm UTC
This is one of my favorite things to cook. Well anything with rice really
Brian H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:33pm UTC
I also throw a frozen pizza in the oven or eat frozen meals - not healthy I know!
Teresa W. Sep 17, 2009, 4:40pm UTC
But quick and easy, that's important!
Mary G. Sep 17, 2009, 4:33pm UTC
I enjoy cooking up meals ahead of time also, as have been going to the gym several evenings.
Jonbonjovious M. Sep 17, 2009, 4:34pm UTC
Good for you, Mary. Glad you're going to the gym and finding a way to work meals into your routine!
Jonbonjovious M. Sep 17, 2009, 4:34pm UTC
Macaroni and Cheese with sausage on the side or hot dogs. My kiddos LOVE this!
Tracy F. Sep 17, 2009, 4:35pm UTC
I cut up the sausages and put them in with the mac and cheese.. hot dogs on the side is too many carbs for me!
Brian H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:34pm UTC
And you can't go wrong with a PB & J!
ChrisJerri S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:36pm UTC
I never have peanut butter and jelly, but that was the first meal I served my husband on our first date. I wasn't planning on cooking, but he said well do you have any peanut butter - yes, jelly, well, it was pretty old but yes. He stayed.
ChrisJerri S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:34pm UTC
Not the healthiest I guess, but sometimes I just fry potatoes, parsley, and onions and add sour cream on top of that.
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:38pm UTC
Sounds good, and not too bad for you!
Tracy F. Sep 17, 2009, 4:34pm UTC
Is anyone able to fit in dessert into the 30 mins.. other than store bought of course!
sally g. Sep 17, 2009, 4:36pm UTC
pumpkin rolls and chocolate rolls are pretty fast and easy to make.
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:36pm UTC
A fresh fruit smoothie is quick and easy!
Mary G. Sep 17, 2009, 4:36pm UTC
I make muffins ahead of time and freeze them, so I can just take a couple out and put them in the microwave to thaw.
Tracy F. Sep 17, 2009, 4:37pm UTC
chocolate rolls sound intriguing.. care to elaborate??
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:37pm UTC
I do that too!
Teresa W. Sep 17, 2009, 4:38pm UTC
Sugar free pudding is tasty and quick.
Heather M. Sep 17, 2009, 4:38pm UTC
I usually don't do dessert. I tend to snack randomly throughout the day.

If you're trying to fit dessert into the time frame, I'd suggest something like chilled grapes or maybe sliced pears drizzled with chocolate sauce.
ChrisJerri S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:38pm UTC
I've been making a lot of fruit smoothies lately.
Tracy F. Sep 17, 2009, 4:38pm UTC
freezing muffins is a good idea! hadn't done that before.. any special instructions on how to freeze them?
ChrisJerri S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:39pm UTC
If you pre freeze bananas you can also put these in the blender with a touch of vanilla for your own vanilla ice cream. I guess although I haven't tried it yet, add some yogurt as well.
sally g. Sep 17, 2009, 4:43pm UTC
my mom makes everything home made. she told me you make up the cake mixture. Make sure you have waxed paper. line the cookie sheet with the waxed paper then put the cake mixture onto the waxed paper and spread it out. bake 15 minutes. take it out and let it cool a little. add whipped cream to the center. roll it up. add your chocolate topping on top then its done.
sally g. Sep 17, 2009, 4:45pm UTC
I will look up the recipe if you like and give it to you. Just send me an email on here and I will send it. Or I can post it and you can get it that way to.
sally g. Sep 17, 2009, 4:34pm UTC
we make onion soup burgers on the grill they are fast and easy. And very good. we cut up squash and grill it to.
If I know I'm going to be busy in the later part of the day, my crock pot is always my lifeline to a good, hot healthy meal in the evening.
Tracy F. Sep 17, 2009, 4:36pm UTC
Only thing I don't like about the crockpot is the planning in advance. I'm not the most organized person LOL!
sally g. Sep 17, 2009, 4:37pm UTC
those are nice to have.
Mary G. Sep 17, 2009, 4:38pm UTC
I use my crock pot also, as I'm determined to stick with my health lifestyle this year.
Misc M. Sep 17, 2009, 4:38pm UTC
Crock pot food is so tender and tasty. :)
Heather M. Sep 17, 2009, 4:39pm UTC
Crock pots are great.
Joy Blessing Sep 17, 2009, 4:59pm UTC
and you can just throw in what you have-cooked ground beef or chicken, leftover vegies, or canned or frozen, some creamed souped, some water, and when it's done, pour over pasta, or rice!
April H. Sep 17, 2009, 4:37pm UTC
Time to go pick up the munchkin!
Teresa W. Sep 17, 2009, 4:37pm UTC
I cooked a giant batch of chicken and cut it into small pieces and froze it in individual packages so it is recipe ready. It's perfect for soup, chicken and dumplings, chicken cacatorie (I know that's not spelled right), gravy, rice dishes. It's been a great and quick handy thing to do.
I have a great recipe for easy chicken cacatorie (I spelled it your way), but it takes a bit longer than 30 minutes to prepare because of the time it takes to cook after you brown your chicken cutlets, but I have put this in the slowcooker and it works just as well, taking less than 1/2 hour to actually prepare it.
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:42pm UTC
Good idea! I love chicken & dumplings!
Joy Blessing Sep 17, 2009, 4:39pm UTC
hi guys. Made it finally
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:40pm UTC
OK, I'm back...chicken breasts are defrosting in the microwave. I've decided on usin' the electric fryin' pan: chicken breasts, cut in strips, yellow rice, frozen peas, diced fresh tomatoes, fresh garlic, topped with a couple o' cups o' spicy V-8, cook for about a half hour, top with sprinkles of parmesan.
(and leftovers for lunch tomorrow!)
Teresa W. Sep 17, 2009, 4:41pm UTC
Now that sounds good!!
Justin Reid Sep 17, 2009, 4:43pm UTC
That sounds sooooo good!
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:44pm UTC
Come on over :-)
Stacey Mamasaid Sep 17, 2009, 4:52pm UTC
Yum!
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:58pm UTC
On my way to the kitchen, follow me :-)
ChrisJerri S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:41pm UTC
And wraps are great. Hummus is quick and easy to make for a filling along with on hand veggies.
Teresa W. Sep 17, 2009, 4:44pm UTC
I've never had the chance to try hummus before but I would love to. What flavor do you think is best?
Monica Kennedy Sep 17, 2009, 4:41pm UTC
One of our favorite quick dinners is what we call flapjacks - no it is not pancakes. You brown 1 lb of ground turkey, then combine it in a pot with 1 can cream of mushroom, 1 can cream of celery, one can cream of chicken, 1 drained can of black beans, 1 can of diced green chilies, 2 cups of milk and 1 cup of shredded pepper jack cheese. Stir until cheese is melted in, then take 3-4 raw corn tortillas per person and very lightly fry them (they should still be soft, not like a chip). You then layer the corn tortillas with the soup mixture like a stack of pancakes with syrup. YUMM-O for sure - it is an old family favorite passed down from my husband's grandmother (though we added the pepper jack cheese and black beans).
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:43pm UTC
This sounds delicious! :-)
Teresa W. Sep 17, 2009, 4:43pm UTC
I've never heard of anything like that beofre but it sounds tasty!!
Justin Reid Sep 17, 2009, 4:41pm UTC
Just got home from work, how are things going in here?
sally g. Sep 17, 2009, 4:50pm UTC
never to late to learn how to make home made meals hehe.
Justin Reid Sep 17, 2009, 4:42pm UTC
Im not much of a cooker, I can make all those basic things, grilled cheese, ramen noodles, eggs and such.
Teresa W. Sep 17, 2009, 4:45pm UTC
We eat a lot of ramen noodles, love those things!!
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:49pm UTC
So do I, but I use them as a base & toss some frozen veggies & frozen shrimp in with them.
Teresa W. Sep 17, 2009, 4:42pm UTC
Tonight we are having salmon. I am not sure if I will just microwave it or broil it. From a flavor standpoint, there doesn't seem to be much difference. It's very fast cooking. Then of course gotta have rice pilaf with it. That Far East box mix takes 20 to 25 minutes to cook and it's delicious.
Baking the salmon should only take about 20 minutes also. I top mine with mustard mixed with spices such as garlic, black pepper, a touch of lemon juice, dill (whatever you like really) and just coat the top of the salmon with that and bake. No need for salt when you use some of the spices that I mentioned above.
Teresa W. Sep 17, 2009, 4:48pm UTC
Usually I just mix it with my rice pilaf and eat it that way. I love the flavor of the two together.
Oh that does sound good.
Jonbonjovious M. Sep 17, 2009, 4:59pm UTC
The Far East line is all delicious! We love that stuff and there are so many varieties!
ChrisJerri S. Sep 17, 2009, 4:42pm UTC
Vegetarian quesadillas are quick - some ingredients - onions, mushrooms, green or red bell peppers, garlic and cheese. I get refried beans in a can and just heat up.
Tracy F. Sep 17, 2009, 4:43pm UTC
I gotta go now.. boss is back :(.. and he sits right behind me!
have fun all!
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:45pm UTC
We won't tell :-)
sally g. Sep 17, 2009, 4:48pm UTC
I like to make up chocolate rolls,pumpkin rolls,orange rolls, cherry rolls,banana rolls, sheet cake and lots more. The holidays are coming up so lots of baking to do.
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:49pm UTC
Put a pumpkin roll on your list for me please :-)
sally g. Sep 17, 2009, 4:53pm UTC
my mom is so busy on the holidays making orders for people. she loves it. have you ever went to the store and payed a ton for a small pumpkin roll? me and my mom make them ten times bigger and sells them for like 6.50 and they are from the tips of my fingers to my elbow lol. would love to make you one lol.
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:55pm UTC
Where are you? Ha!
sally g. Sep 17, 2009, 4:57pm UTC
Ohio in Alliance lol
Jonbonjovious M. Sep 17, 2009, 4:58pm UTC
Sally, you are one amazing woman! These rolls sound HEAVENLY...wanna make me one? LOL
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:59pm UTC
Well heck, we're in the same state Sally!
sally g. Sep 17, 2009, 5:00pm UTC
Thank you Jon, I am sure I could hehe
sally g. Sep 17, 2009, 5:01pm UTC
well that is cool Ruthi.
sally g. Sep 17, 2009, 5:02pm UTC
Speaking of home made meals I just checked my mail and got a free cook book lol. Its called fall favorites
Teresa W. Sep 17, 2009, 4:50pm UTC
Sometimes I take flour tortillas, canned refried beans and grated cheese and make burritoes and freeze them in a big batch. I keep them in the freezer and then grab one of two out when someone wants one and then microwave it for one minute, turn it over, cut it in half and microwave it for around 40 to 50 more seconds. The kids love them!
Stacey Mamasaid Sep 17, 2009, 4:51pm UTC
These are all great (keep going back to the kitchen)

I recently started a Gather group for fast recipes called Mamasaid's Hot, Fresh Quickies
Come join and share a few ;)
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 5:02pm UTC
Food recipes right? Hahaha!
I like my crock pot for "quick" cooking... the cooking itself isn't quick but the prep is, and I can forget about it for hours, then come back to a good meal.
My most recent crock pot meal was a beef roast. In with the meat, I added one vidalia onion, a can of N/A beer, a couple of bullion cubes, and about a quarter cup of A-1 sauce. Along with that, add a few quartered potatoes and cut up carrots. I can't use mushrooms at home due to family food allergies, but a small jar of whole button mushrooms is really good in a roast like this. I set it on high for an hour, then turn it to the low setting and let it cook all day. By supper time, the roast is always really tender.

A good trick, if you get the chance to plan ahead, is to freeze the roast, then thaw it in the 'fridge the day before you plan to use it... that helps tenderize it. No stabbing or pounding needed!
Teresa W. Sep 17, 2009, 4:54pm UTC
I haven't made a roast in the crock pot in ages! I really like it that way but my family doesn't so, I don't make it. :-(
Jonbonjovious M. Sep 17, 2009, 4:57pm UTC
Crock Pots have to be the world's greatest invention!
Teresa W. Sep 17, 2009, 4:52pm UTC
We eat a lot of pasta and then throw a jar of sauce on it. The kids really like spaghetti or alfredo sauce on noodles, though they call it the "white sauce" LOL
Stacey Mamasaid Sep 17, 2009, 4:53pm UTC
I like to hide little pieces of broccoli in the white sauce :)
Teresa W. Sep 17, 2009, 4:57pm UTC
Our kids have vegetable radar, they can spot it no matter how hard we try to hide it in there!!
penni d. Sep 17, 2009, 4:53pm UTC
Ok, you guys made me hungry,lol...I just put a nice skirt steak in the broiler with the basil sauce, added chopped up peppers, onions, and tomatoes to it...broiled for 7 minutes on one side, 3 on the other...and cooked up some brown/long grain rice and fresh from the garden carrots.... rice took 25 minutes, carrots took 25 minutes, the rest of in, including slicing took about 20 minutes...... a meal in under 30 minutes!! :)
And a wonderful meal from the sound of it. Yummmy penni.
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:56pm UTC
Great meal Penni!
George Vreeland Hill . Sep 17, 2009, 4:55pm UTC
It is too late to make another plan for tonight's meal, but after reading what other Gather members are making, have made or will make, the meal tomorrow night will be exciting.
Jonbonjovious M. Sep 17, 2009, 4:56pm UTC
Agreed!
Ruthi C. Sep 17, 2009, 4:57pm UTC
For sure! I gotta try flapjacks!
Angelina R. Sep 17, 2009, 5:06pm UTC
I agree, George. The suggestions from the other members have truly made my meal planning for next week so much easier! Thank you guys!
Kim K. Sep 17, 2009, 5:01pm UTC
When I'm in a hurry and my son is starving, I get out a can of soup and make grilled cheese sandwiches to go with it. Soup and sandwiches are pretty nutritious and filling. A chef's salad is pretty quick, too.
Joy Blessing Sep 17, 2009, 5:05pm UTC
Yep, grilled cheese is great ANYTIME!
Kim K. Sep 17, 2009, 5:04pm UTC
When I broil or bake meat, I do enough extra for a couple of meals for a quick warm up and add veggies. The Uncle Ben's 90-second rice is a huge timesaver.
sally g. Sep 17, 2009, 5:05pm UTC
Have a great day everyone
Stacey Mamasaid Sep 17, 2009, 5:07pm UTC
I'll be back to check these out again, great ideas. On my way to serve up those steaks ;) Have a delicious dinner everyone!!
Joy Blessing Sep 17, 2009, 5:08pm UTC
i just LOVE lasagna! with the no-boil noodles prep time is not to bad. I make 2 pans at one time and freeze one. throw one in oven and take a break!!
Kim K. Sep 17, 2009, 5:13pm UTC
Sounds good!! My son loves lasagna. I usually buy the frozen microwave kind.
Joy Blessing Sep 17, 2009, 5:56pm UTC
Well, Stouffers is good but homemade is even better! Cook diced onions and mushrooms (you could even add in some carrotts and/or zucchinni) w/ the meat,use ready made sauce,no-boil noodles and shredded cheese and you've still saved money AND you've cut some time in the kitchen!