How to determine your best methods for make ahead or convenience food

“I need something quick and easy for dinner/breakfast/lunch/snacks”.

We all mean we want something that will not take a lot of time and effort to get to the table. It does not matter if you need to feed a hungry 'one' or a family. Of course we can 'settle for' any of the fast food restaurants or the prepackaged frozen products that abound. These, however, are expensive and often are not very good for our health. We need alternatives. Too often the alternatives still have too much fat and sodium as we are using processed foods such as canned beans and soups. There should be a better way that does not make us a kitchen slave for at least a couple of hours each evening. Actually, there are many alternatives for make ahead or convenience foods.

To get started, ask yourself some questions.

What do I need/want?

• Fast, no frills - cream soups and purchased convenience foods work for me if I can get it to the table with no complaining.
• Oven ready to cook - (Thaw and bake although baking time may approach an hour)
• Prepped food that allow rapid finish of fresh-cooked meal
• Convenience meals without the high cost
• Convenience mixes without the high cost
• Mealtime options, since I never know who will be there or what I want to eat until it is time to make dinner.
• Food that is nutritious and reasonably health conscious without sacrificing taste but with minimal meal-time effort
• Really fast food without 'fast food ' cost and serious health concerns
• Carefully planned meals for a week, month or longer.
• Economy through bulk purchasing
• Ability to prepare when I have time or physical strength to prepare
• Special types of dishes due to dietary needs or preference
• Special sauces and condiments
• Methods to prepare and cook a meal faster
• Easier entertaining

You probably found several wants or needs in the above list. Most likely, you thought of more. Your particular needs or wants will let you know which make-ahead or speed appliance techniques will work best for you.

This site is devoted to looking for options that fit your needs and life and make great tasting, healthier food as easy as possible. Let's get started by looking at the pantry.