Weeknight Recipe Roundup: Back to School After the Holiday
After the holidays, getting back into a school routine can feel like a full-body reset. Mornings are earlier, schedules are more rigid, and by dinnertime, the decision fatigue is very real… especially coming off of a stressful Christmas!
This is where having a meal plan that is full of simple, whole-food meals can make a huge difference. Where we can support energy, blood sugar, digestion, and avoid any hangry meltdowns without requiring hours in the kitchen.
My Meal Planning Tips
Protein First- Build your plate around protein first, then add vegetables and carbs. Prioritizing protein at dinner helps kids (and adults) stay full, focused, and emotionally regulated, especially after long days.
One Pot, or One Pan Time Savers- Finding “one pot” or “one pan” recipes can cut down on your time in the kitchen for cleanup after dinner!
Use Leftovers Intentionally- Tonight’s dinner becomes tomorrow’s lunch!
Frozen Vegetables Count- Frozen veggies are just as nutritious as fresh, and save serious time chopping!
Warm and Nourishing- Choose warm, hearty recipes in the colder months to support digestion and keep you feeling satisfied.
Simple is Better- Consistently having home cooked, nutritious meals matters more than fancy complex recipes worthy of an Instagram post.
Recipe Ideas
One Pan Baked Salmon with Vegetables
Rich in omega-3s and quick to prepare, this is a great brain-supportive weeknight meal.
Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli
Ready when you get home, and pairs beautifully with rice.
Sheet-Pan Caprese Chicken
Simple ingredients, fan favourite flavour, and minimal cleanup.
A grounding, vegetarian dinner that works well in cooler months. Add greek yogurt on top for a yummy extra bit of protein!
Fish Taco Bowls
Prep the night before for a quick brain boosting bowl with fish, beans, sautéed peppers, avocado, and greens.
Take your favourite Chinese restaurant off speed dial, you can whip up this delicious fried rice at home in no time.
Make this winter staple in a big batch, freeze in portions and have on hand, especially helpful during back-to-school sniffle season.
Creamy Tortellini Soup
On the table in 15 minutes, but I would also add a few cups of shredded rotisserie chicken for moe protein!
Hearty Black Bean Chili
Fibre-rich, budget-friendly, and perfect for leftovers or lunches.
Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Colourful, antioxidant-rich, and 4 different filling ideas for picky eaters.
One-Pot Pasta
A veggie packed pasta option that doesn’t leave you feeling weighed down.
Chicken Sausage & Veggie Pasta Bake
A comforting option that stretches protein and sneaks in vegetables.
Bon Appetit!