Busy Mom Meals


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Whether you're a first-time mama or have a bustling crew of three, quick and easy meals are a must! And when they’re healthy, it’s a double win! Here are some speedy, nutrient-packed recipes to keep you and your little ones fueled and happy on the go.

Banana Roll-Ups

Easy to serve on the go for a quick lunch or snack! Or cut it up like sushi and enjoy little bites on a plate.

Option 1:Option 2:Instructions:

1 banana

8” whole wheat tortilla

1 tbsp crispy rice cereal

2 tbsp reduced fat strawberry cream cheese

1 banana

8” whole wheat tortilla

2 tbsp peanut butter
  1. Place the tortilla on a plate and spread either cream cheese or peanut butter on it.
  2. If choosing option 1: sprinkle crispy rice cereal on the cream cheese.
  3. Peel the banana and place it on top of the tortilla and roll up like a burrito.

 

Make-Ahead Burritos

This one requires a little planning, but once they are prepped you’ll thank yourself later!

Ingredients:Instructions:

1 lb ground beef, turkey or chicken

1 packet of taco seasoning

1.5 cups black beans, drained and rinsed

¾ cup corn kernels

3 cups cooked rice

8 whole wheat tortillas

1.5 cup shredded cheese

Optional: salsa, diced tomatoes, diced bell peppers, avocado
  1. Cook the meat with taco seasoning according to the package instructions.
  2. Spread some beans in the middle of a tortilla, top with rice, meat, corn, cheese, and any other veggies you might choose.
  3. Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll up.
  4. Wrap each burrito individually in aluminum foil and freeze.
  5. When you’re ready to eat, remove a burrito from the freezer and bake in the foil at 350 degrees F for 30 minutes OR remove from the foil and microwave until it is heated through.

 

 

Oat and Zucchini Muffins

A nice quick breakfast or snack especially when paired with a glass of milk!

Ingredients:Instructions:

1.5 cup grated zucchini

1.5 cup whole wheat flour

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp cinnamon

½ tsp salt

1 egg

½ cup maple syrup

1/3 cup milk

1/3 cup vegetable/canola oil

1 tsp vanilla

½ cup oatmeal
  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and grease a 12 cup muffin tin.
  2. Grate the zucchini.
  3. In a large bowl, add flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk to combine.
  4. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the egg, syrup, milk, oil and vanilla. Stir until the mixture is just mixed. Don’t over mix!
  5. Fold in the zucchini and oats.
  6. Spoon into 12 muffin cups and bake for 16-20 minutes.

Store these in an airtight container on the counter for 3-4 days or individually wrap in plastic wrap and place into a storage bag in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, remove from the plastic wrap and heat in the microwave until thawed.

 

Veggie Calzones

A meal the whole family will love! Make these ahead of time and keep in the freezer until you’re ready to eat.

Ingredients:Instructions:

Whole wheat pizza dough (find in the freezer or refrigerated section of the grocery store or make your own!)

1 cup marinara sauce

½ medium zucchini

½ green bell pepper

½ yellow bell pepper

½ cup sliced mushrooms

½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/8 tsp salt

1/8 tsp pepper

 

  1. Let the pizza dough sit at room temperature for 1 hour or until it is easy to handle.
  2. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
  3. De-seed the bell peppers and then place zucchini, peppers, and mushrooms in a food processor and pulse until blended. Stir in ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
  4. Ball up about a golf ball sized ball of dough and roll out into a circle. Fill the middle with marinara sauce and a scoop of veggie mixture.
  5. Fold the calzone in half and crimp the edges with a fork to seal. Set on a baking tray.
  6. Bake for 10-15 minutes, until lightly browned.
  7. Serve fresh or individually wrap the calzones in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, place the frozen (unwrapped) calzone in the oven at 425 degrees F until heated through or try the microwave for a quicker option!

 

A few other ideas for new moms or busy families:

  1. Precut veggies and fruits in individual containers or baggies for easy snacks.
  2. Take advantage of tortillas as they are easy to carry with you! Try it with ham and cheese or grilled chicken and avocado.
  3. Use smoothies for an easy nutrient boost! Toss in some fruit, veggies like spinach or cauliflower, nut butter and milk for a filling and delicious drink.
  4. Keep healthy snacks in the house like yogurts, fruit (fresh, canned or dried), nuts, and whole grain crackers.

Just remember that this season of life will pass, so enjoy as many moments as you can!