Commit to eating more meals at home during the holidays
Do you want to save money this holiday season? Most of us would answer yes! One easy way to do that is to commit to eating more meals at home. Not only can you save money by preparing meals for your family at home, but there are many positive benefits to eating together as a family.
Conversation, togetherness, relationship building, and healthy eating are just a few. Let’s face it, the holidays are hectic. It can be a challenge to sit down together as a family and share a meal; however, the benefits may be worth the effort.
One in three children are overweight or obese in the United States. Being overweight increases the risk for a multitude of short and long-term health consequences. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics promotes the encouragement of regular family mealtimes in the prevention of childhood obesity and treatment recommendations. Not only is it good for physical development, the benefits extend to social and mental development as well.
Here are some ways to improve family mealtime at your home.
• Set a goal to have regular family meals at least three times per week, if possible. This may not be possible for all families. However, try to find some time during the week to sit down together and enjoy a meal. It may be breakfast or an evening snack. The goal is to spend some quality time together as a family.
• Remember the benefits of consistent family mealtimes. The routine of family meals can generate feelings of closeness and comfort. Even during the holidays, when things are so hectic and disorganized, take comfort in the fact that the simple act of regular mealtimes may be providing your child with stability.
• The quality of family meals is just as important as quantity. Mealtimes give family members, including children, the opportunity to communicate, so, if possible, turn off the TV and ban cell phones. Ask questions during mealtime. How was your day? What did you learn? What made the day great or not so great?
The holidays are hectic! Eating out with the family can be “special treat.” However, there are some very valid reasons for eating at home.
If you want to improve cooking skills, meal planning, or would like information related to healthy eating following the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, contact the Saline County Extension Office at 501303-5672. You can also check out the website www. myplate.gov
RECIPE OF THE WEEK Cranberry Turkey Sliders
Do you have any turkey leftover at your house? Hopefully, you put it in the freezer to use for future meals. Cooked turkey can be used in place of cooked chicken in most recipes. Just find your favorite casserole, soup or main dish recipe that calls for chicken and substitute cooked turkey instead. This recipe is great, easy to prepare and is nutritious!
1 pkg. Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
1 pkg. sliced turkey (or leftover turkey)
1 cup. cranberry sauce or relish
6 slices Swiss cheese 6 Tablespoon butter
1 Tablespoon yellow mustard
1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 Tablespoon dried minced onion
Salt and Pepper to taste Parmesan cheese, optional
Dried parsley, optional
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cover a 9x13-inch baking pan with foil. Spray with cooking spray.
Remove rolls from package in one piece. Cut entire slab of rolls in half lengthwise. Place bottom slab in foil covered pan. Layer turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese on the bottom half of rolls. (Warm the cranberry sauce for a few seconds in the microwave to make it a spreadable consistency.) Add top slab of rolls. Melt butter in microwave and whisk in remaining ingredients (except for the Parmesan cheese and parsley).
Pour evenly over rolls. Cover with foil and let sit for 5 – 10 minutes. Bake covered for 20 minutes. Uncover and cook for 5 additional minutes. (Optional) Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and parsley. Slice into individual sliders and serve warm.