Day after day you are responsible for feeding many mouths, including yours! I have no doubt that you get pretty tired of trying to keep things healthy, interesting, and easy. There are a few things you can do to lighten your load. We’ve all heard, “work smarter, not harder.” That’s what these tactics are about!

First, consider roasted vegetables. This is such an easy solution for everyday dinners and maybe even some special occasions. It is very easy to wash, cut and assemble this plate. Just choose three to four vegetables that you and your family like. A couple of examples include: sweet potatoes, green beans, carrots or potato, carrot, zucchini. Of course you can create your own!

Take these vegetables and cut them to a similar size. Then simply drizzle some olive oil over them, sprinkle a couple tablespoons of your favorite dry dressing mix, and stir until equally coated. Place in a baking dish and bake at 350 degrees until all vegetables are tender. Done. A tasty, hearty and healthy side dish that you can pair with just about anything!

Another easy side dish idea is common sense and will leave you saying “why didn’t I think of that?” The solution is so simple, double or triple! Not everyone will like leftover tuna casserole. However, most people don’t complain about leftover mashed potatoes.

Let’s say that on Monday night your sides are mashed potatoes and a salad. You’re already taking the time to prepare these items, so why not fold it up and have the sides ready for your Wednesday night baked chicken? In other words, make sure you can get two or three nightly side dishes of a prep time, a dirty plate, and a boost of energy. You can always spice things up with leftovers by adding a few things here or there. Maybe add a little avocado to the salad or a little cheese to the mashed potatoes.

Either way, the point remains the same: save energy, time, and thought by making multiple servings overnight.

One last step is to skip the idea of ​​side dishes and make “one-bowl” meals. You can use any of these “garnishes” listed above and complete this idea. For example, add some shrimp to the veggies by adding the oil and seasoning. Bake them all together for a delicious dinner. Or consider a delicious seared steak on top of your salad.

Keep it simple. Keep is smart. And above all, keep it healthy. Your family will thank you and you will have more time and energy to enjoy life with them. Eating happy!