Following a weekly meal plan is the best way to cook healthier for your family, save time and money! Each week I share six easy, healthy, and family-friendly recipes to help you simplify feeding your family!
What a week. If you follow me on Instagram you know I came down with the flu last Saturday and it kicked my bootie! I was on the couch with a fever, aches, cough, and exhaustion for about six days. I finally started to feel like myself again just in time to celebrate Ava turning 12 and host her birthday party. So now I’m exhausted from doing all of the normal mom stuff. Oh and Christmas is in less than two weeks and I haven’t finished shopping or wrapped a single item. It’s fine – it’s all going to be fine.
This is my last full meal plan for 2021 because the week leading up to Christmas is too busy to plan for. Family is in town, there are parties to attend and friends to see. It’s just too hectic. If you know you will be home a few nights the week leading up to Christmas go ahead and purchase your family’s favorite frozen meals. We love Stouffer’s lasagna and always keep at least one in the freezer over the holidays. Or check out your local stores – I know Hamby’s in Charleston has a ton of freezer meals to choose from.
I will also be sharing my Christmas menu, a few last-minute DIY gift guides and some of my favorite holiday recipes so be on the lookout for those. And if you haven’t had a chance, make sure to pop over and read my 6 Essential Holiday Cookie Recipes to Bake with Your Kids This Season on Lowcountry Parent if you are looking for something fun to do with your kiddos over break. You know, because they will be home for two and a half weeks!!!!
Meal Plan 12/12 – 12/17
Sunday, December 12th | Salmon, Asparagus, and Dill Orzo Salad | Total Time: 35 minutes | Not your average Sunday Supper recipe from me. I know. But the thing is I am craving something light and healthyish after a week of grilled cheese sammies, birthday cake, and Christmas cookies. Meal Prep Tip: double the recipe for lunches this week! Kid Tip: if your kids won’t eat salmon, don’t fret. Just make additional orzo, serve plain with butter & cheese with a side of some asparagus, and whatever else they will tolerate!
Monday, December 13th | Shrimp, Peas, and Rice | Total Time: 30 minutes | I try not to have too much seafood on the plan these days because well, inflation, but this family-friendly & quick option is too good not to share. Brown rice (you can sub white) is cooked with frozen peas then shrimp are added at the last minute. Kid Tip: don’t mix the shrimp in! Serve their rice & peas with a side of shrimp.
Tuesday, December 14th | Mexican Kale Salad with Zesty Cilantro Lime Dressing | Total Time: 25 minutes | A healthier spin on “Taco Tuesdays” this salad will make you think twice about kale! Chickpeas are roasted then tossed with kale, black beans, jalapenos, bell pepper, corn, and cheese. A few things – you can always add in some rotisserie chicken or leftover shrimp from Monday’s dinner. Sub a different lettuce if your family won’t eat kale!
Wednesday, December 15th | Cheesy Baked BBQ Chicken | Total Time: 30 minutes | If you are looking for a family-friendly option to add to your weekly rotation this just might be it. BBQ sauce, chicken, cheese baked until bubbly. Your family will not be disappointed. Kid Tip: omit the jalapenos and red onion or leave one side of the casserole without.
Thursday, December 16th | Lemongrass Chicken with Rice and Zucchini | Total Time: 35 minutes | I’m not sure I can wait until Thursday to make this dish but I’m gonna try so I have something yummy to look forward to. Chicken thighs cooked in a creamy coconut and lemongrass sauce over jasmine rice. I die.
Friday, December 17th | Smashed Lemony Potatoes with Greek Yogurt and Feta Dressing | Total Time: 90 minutes | Who said potatoes can’t stand alone on a dinner plate? Not I. These perfectly crispy smashed potatoes are roasted to perfection then drizzled with the yummiest dressing. Serve with a simple arugula salad. Kid Tip: serve smashed potatoes with butter, sour cream, and a little bacon if you have on hand!
Leave a Reply