The following is a guest column by Eve Laws, a registered dietitian at Zehrs Orillia.
Over the past year, you’ve probably spent more time in your kitchen than ever before, and let’s be honest, it’s exhausting.
While you may have dabbled in some of the latest food trends – sourdough starter or TikTok feta pasta, anyone? – answering the age-old question of “what’s for dinner?” every day has started to wear us down.
As we continue to attempt to maintain some form of routine and manage the changes in our day-to-day lives – juggling working from home along with the end of the school year – I’m sharing a few tips that I’ve found helpful, to kick your kitchen fatigue and inspire you to keep cooking.
Grow your own food
Gardening is a great way to breathe some excitement back into the kitchen, while also reducing stress and giving you a reason to spend more time outside.
As you begin to plan your garden, a planter full of herbs or veggie patch, think about the basics like lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers, as well as herbs like basil, rosemary, chives, and cilantro to kick start a delicious summer of fresh salads and herbs to be added to marinades, dips or even infused into your water or cocktails.
Take dinner outdoors
Barbecue season is in full swing so let’s take mealtime outside. Bring meatless Monday to the grill with grilled halloumi and veggie skewers or try marinating chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, fresh rosemary, and garlic and serve on a bed of grilled zucchini, eggplant, and peppers.
If you can’t cook outdoors try having a picnic in a local park with an assortment of snackable treats if your local health guidelines allow it
Meal planning is your friend
Taking 30 minutes once a week to plan out your lunches and dinners for the week can help relieve much of the daily mealtime stress.
Start by looking at what’s already in your fridge and pantry and what’s on sale at your local grocery store for cost-saving inspiration. If you’re stuck on what to do with those ingredients, try using Pinterest to find new recipes.
Meal plans also don’t have to be concrete — be flexible and shift meals around if you need to. If you end up ordering in now and again, don’t sweat it.
It’s okay to take a shortcut
Taking the easy way out can sometimes be seen as a negative, but with all the convenient options available at your local grocery store, it’s okay to lean into what works best for you. Pick up a ready-to-go rotisserie chicken to serve with a fresh summer salad or a meal kit to make weeknight dinners a breeze.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help
Getting started can feel overwhelming. You’re not alone! As your local Orillia Zehrs dietitian, I am here to help with tips and recipe ideas. Book a free 15-minute virtual consultation with me at Zehrs.ca/dietitians.
