Fast-Cooking Mealtime Strategies

• Buy food as specified by recipes . . . for example, skinless, boneless chicken breasts; shredded cheese; and pre-cut vegetables
   
• Dovetail mealtime preparation steps: while waiting for water to boil or chicken to brown, can chop vegetables, measure seasonings or open cans
   
• Use time-saving gadgets and appliances, and use the microwave oven to quick-thaw frozen foods
   
• Have family members help -- a child can set the table while one of the parents cooks the main dish
   
• Plan meals for a week in advance to avoid unnecessary trips to the supermarket.
   
• Keep meals simple, and use a prepared food for one component of each meal
   
• Put away containers, and clean up as you cook
   
• Prepare ingredients for several recipes at one time: cook a double batch of rice or pasta, then refrigerate or freeze for another meal
   
• Line the broiler pan with aluminum foil before cooking for easier clean-up