Quality, Value Family Meals

    Quality, Value Family Meals

    By: Jacqueline Gomes, RDN, MBA

    Let’s take a moment to celebrate the magic that happens when good food meets good company. We’re talking about those heartwarming, belly-filling family meals that not only nourish your body but also feed your soul.

    In a world that’s always on the go, there’s something truly special about gathering around the table with your loved ones. It’s not just about the food—it’s about the laughter, the stories, and the shared moments that make these meals unforgettable.

    But here’s the best part: you don’t need a fancy spread to create lasting memories. Quality, value family meals are all about keeping it real and relatable. Think homemade spaghetti with a secret sauce passed down through generations or a simple potluck that turns into a feast of flavors.

    Embracing these moments doesn’t just lighten up your taste buds; it’s also a budget-friendly way to create a sense of togetherness. From budget-friendly recipes to clever meal planning, enjoying quality family meals is all about finding the sweet spot where delicious meets affordable.

    So, whether you’re a culinary maestro or a kitchen newbie, let’s savor the joy of shared meals. After all, life’s too short for bland dinners and missed opportunities to connect. Grab a seat at the table, pass the potatoes, and let the feast begin—because the best memories are made when we’re all in feast mode!

    London Broil over Farmer’s Market Rice

    London Broil with Famers Market Rice

    Packed with protein, veggies and rice, this salad is a colorful treat for your whole family. Weeknight meals have never been so easy, delicious and healthy.

    Prep: 35 minutes
    Makes: 4 servings

    Ingredients:

    • 1 pound Top Round Steak/London Broil, about ¾ inch thick
    • 1 teaspoon olive oil
    • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
    • 1 medium zucchini squash, cut lengthwise, then into half moons
    • 1 cup diced, seeded tomatoes
    • 2 cups hot cooked rice (wild, brown or long-grain white)
    • ¼ cup parsley

    Marinade:

    • 1/4 cup olive oil
    • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
    • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
    • 1 tablespoon honey
    • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

    Directions:

    1. Combine marinade ingredients in small bowl. Place beef Top Round Steak and 1/4 cup marinade in food-safe plastic bag; turn steak to coat. Close bag securely and marinate in refrigerator 6 hours or as long as overnight.
    2. Remove steak from marinade; discard marinade.
    3. Grill Pan method: Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Heat a Cast Iron Pan over medium high heat. Grill 5 minutes per side, then move pan into oven for additional 5 minutes for medium-rare (145°F).
    4. Broiler method: Place steak on rack in broiler pan so surface of beef is 2 to 3 inches from heat. Broil 12 to 13 minutes for medium rare (145°F) doneness, turning once. Remove; keep warm.
    5. Meanwhile, heat oil in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add peppers, cook for 3 to 5 minutes.  Add squash; cook and stir 7 to 8 minutes or until tender. Toss with rice, tomatoes, parsley and pinch of salt.
    6. Carve steak into thin slices. Serve over rice salad.

    Recipe: Jacqueline Gomes, RDN, MBA