Hi Vivi,

Summer is a great time to break from your typical dinner routine!

If you have a grill, try making veggie kabobs drizzled with olive oil, salt and pepper for an easy side dish (with minimal clean up!). I’ve also grilled brocccoli or cauliflower “steaks”- just cover with a thin layer of olive oil or your favorite dressing and pop the whole crown on the grill for a few minutes.

Another fun option is making cold salads instead of warm dishes. Try a Mexican bean salad like this: https://belleofthekitchen.com/2014/09/30/mexican-three-bean-salad/
Or a cold quinoa or pasta salad like this:
https://www.twopeasandtheirpod.com/easy-quinoa-salad/

Speaking of grains, check out to grain section of your local grocery store and try some new options to switch things up. Black rice (sometimes called “forbidden rice”) is high in protein and fiber and can be used in any recipe in place of white or brown rice. Or try amaranth, spelt or wild rice to switch things up!

Let me know if that helps. Happy to keep brainstorming if you need more ideas!
Vanessa

Salads!

You can make a hearty entree out of salads by adding tuna, avocado, nuts, seeds and/or cheese. I’ve been even known to chop up leftovers and throw them in a bed of greens when time is short on weeknights- it works great!

You can also try a simple crudité platter by chopping up veggies and plating with different hummus, guacamole or other dip. Add your favorite bread or whole grain crackers and let your family pick and choose what they’d like.
<br/>Chicken, egg or tuna salad is another good option. Offer with veggies or whole grain pita wedges instead of as a sandwich to switch things up.

Anywhere fun idea is a cold bean salad. Try a recipe like this for a Mexican twist:
http://healthyeatingforfamilies.com/quick-and-healthy-black-bean-salad-no-cooking-required/