Hi Reader,

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Last week I casually threw an Ina Garten recipe on the menu that just so happened to take 2+ hours to cook. WHY WOULD I DO SUCH A THING.

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We are not repeating that mistake this week. No thanks. There’s so much to squeeze in after school!

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Here’s the kicker… my kids both hated it. I know you saw that coming from a mile away!!

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This week we’re gonna make things nice and easy. But that can mean healthy, too. So I wanted to share a few tips on how I make easy & healthy weeknight dinners (that my kids actually eat).

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Easy Weeknight Dinners from Mama Knows:

Wondering how to build an easy dinner? Just find a protein, a carbohydrate, a fat (like cooking oil), and a fruit or veg. Don’t get stuck thinking you have to cook a main dish and two side dishes from scratch for your family to get what they need!

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And…when in doubt, just add some fruit and raw veggies on the side. Less cooking for you and a nutritious side dish option.

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Here are two simple meals I’m planning for this week:

1. Fish sticks, rice and frozen veggies: I don’t have any instructions! Follow the package instructions to heat each item and serve. (I’ll broil some salmon for me and Ben.)
2. Meatball sliders, broccoli (my kids like it raw) and orange slices:
   1. Heat meatballs according to package instructions. Toast buns if desired. Place meatballs on a bun (cut them up for your little one; you can serve them separately instead of assembled.) Top with sauce and shredded mozzarella; microwave a few seconds to melt the cheese.
   2. Serve with broccoli and orange slices (or other fruit/veg of your choice).
   3. Done!

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Want some recipe inspiration? Here are some Mama Knows favorites with short prep-times:

• Don’t let the word casserole scare you away...this Kid-Approved Spaghetti Casserole is a hit for the whole family.
• This Easy Pumpkin Pasta recipe is just so easy and SO delicious.
• ​Mini Meatballs in 20 minutes? Yes, please! Plus, I love to double the batch and freeze some for a quick meal on another busy night.
• Anything I can throw in the instant pot and walk away from is a win in my book – and this Cheesy Broccoli Rice recipe is one my whole family enjoys.
• Is there anything easier and tastier than broiled shrimp? It pairs well with the rice above, too.
• For pasta lovers, this Red Lentil Pasta with Veggie-Packed Sauce is filling and nutritious.

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Bonus – Here are a few of the MKN team's recent recipe finds that are easy to make:

• A protein packed cottage cheese egg bake with veggies that can pull double duty as breakfast or dinner. Carlie’s family loved this recipe!
• This high-protein ravioli casserole requires a little more cook time, but only 20 minutes of prep. Auburn’s family made a few tweaks using gluten free ravioli and she didn’t have ricotta on hand so she only used cottage cheese, and it was a hit even for her 2-year-old
• This one isn’t a meal, but it was too good not to share, especially for the PSL lovers who are counting down the days until fall actually begins: healthy pumpkin bars.

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Wishing you a great week,

P.S. Want more simple recipes and grab-and-go snack ideas to pick up at the store? Check out my free Summer Snack Pack.

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P.P.S. Since next Monday is a holiday, look for me in your inbox on Tuesday instead. Happy Labor Day!

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Disclaimer: this message contains affiliate links. As an Amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.​
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