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Hey there, Momma. If you’re reading this with a baby snuggled on your lap (or strapped to your chest, hip, or back)—I see you. I get it. I had a little one who wouldn’t leave my side either, and let me tell you, it was tough some days just to get food on the table. But here’s the thing: this isn’t forever. Your baby isn’t “clingy”—they’re deeply connected to you, and that connection is a gift. You’re in a unique season of life, and simplicity is your best friend right now. Here’s how to get food on the table without losing your sanity.
1. Focus on “Good Enough” Meals This isn’t the time for gourmet meals or complex recipes. Instead, focus on getting something (anything!) on the table. Sandwiches, cereal, or even a smoothie for dinner? Totally fine. You’re nourishing your family, and that’s what matters.
2. Leverage Grocery Pickup or Delivery Save your energy by using grocery pickup or delivery. Pre-cut or frozen veggies like onions, peppers, and carrots are lifesavers when you’re short on time and hands.
3. Snack Plate Dinner (a.k.a. Charcuterie Board) Keep it simple with precut cheese, veggies, crackers, and fruit. Add a dip like hummus or guacamole, and you’ve got a balanced, no-cook meal that feels fun and satisfying.
4. Get Creative with Rotisserie Chicken Rotisserie chicken is versatile for quick meals. Use it for tacos, pasta, or salads. For a vegan twist, swap in pre-cooked lentils, tofu, or canned chickpeas.
5. Invest in Time-Saving Kitchen Appliances A slow cooker, air fryer or programmable pressure cooker can save the day. Dump in ingredients, press a button, and come back to a warm meal. Soups, stews, and lentil curries are quick and easy.
6. Try a Meal Kit Meal kits take the guesswork out of dinner. The food is already prepped, measured, and portioned for you, making them a great option when you’re short on time and energy. Look for kits with minimal cooking steps or check your grocery store’s deli for easy take-and-make options.
7. Consider Catering for Meal Prep Order family-sized portions from your favorite restaurant. Use them to meal prep for the week or freeze extras for later. Look for vegan catering options like vegetable curries or hearty pasta dishes.
8. Keep It Simple with One-Pan Meals Sheet pan dinners are a lifesaver. Toss protein and veggies on a baking sheet, season, and roast. For vegan meals, use tofu, tempeh, or hearty vegetables like sweet potatoes and broccoli.
Bonus: Use Disposable Plates and Utensils** When you’re short on time and energy, disposable plates and utensils cut down on cleanup. It’s a temporary solution that saves your sanity.
This Season Won’t Last Forever If dinner feels like a juggling act right now, take a deep breath and remind yourself: it’s okay to take shortcuts. This phase won’t last forever, and one day, you’ll look back on these moments and smile. Until then, keep it simple, embrace the chaos, and know that you’re doing an amazing job.
Need more mealtime inspiration? Check out other posts on MeInTheKitchen.com!
While parts of this post may have been dreamed up by an AI with an knack for all things food, rest assured that all ideas and opinions are 100% mine—no robots were harmed in the making of this content!
