When I forget to take the meat out of the freezer, this is what I do (a tip I learned watching Food Network on tv): I put it, still in its package, in a sink of warm water. When the water grows cold, drain and refill. It takes approximately 15-30 minutes for the meat to thaw (depends on the thickness and quantity of the meat).
For staples that I keep around the house:
Whole Grain Pasta (spaghetti, shells, and macaroni)
Canned Beans (Red and Black)
Canned Corn
Canned Olives
Canned Mushrooms
Tomato Sauce
Frozen Broccoli
Frozen Peas
Lettuce
Eggs
Cheddar Cheese
American Cheese
Parmesan
Different kinds of Whole Grain/Wheat/Oatmeal Bread
Sliced Ham and Turkey (these I buy at a local bulk grocery store, Sams– it's a great price for the quantity)
Frozen Chicken
White Fish
Canned Tuna
Celery
For a quick pasta dish:
A small box of shells or macaroni (once the water boils, it only takes 7-9 minutes to cook)
Tomato Sauce
Red and Black Beans
Olives
Mushrooms
Corn
Cheese (as much or as little as you like)
Once the pasta is cooked, mix it all together in a pan and bake it in the oven for 15-20 minutes at 350˚ F. This is so delicious, my husband loves it, and you can add any vegetable to it that you want– grated zucchini, broccoli, etc.
A chicken dinner:
Chicken thighs or breasts in a pan
Cover With:
Canned or Frozen Spinach (drained)
Olives (add these last three ingredients the last ten minutes of cooking)
pats of cream cheese
Sprinkle of parmesan
Bake according to the frozen/fresh chicken instructions.
A great Salad:
lettuce (your choice of what kind)
Canned Pears, sliced
Walnuts
Raspberry Vinaigrette
For nights when your kids have soccer practice, or you're running short on time, sandwiches always work great– little mayonnaise, mustard, lettuce, 1-2 slices of cheese, and 1-2 slices of ham or turkey. Add sliced pickles or tomato according to your pleasure. Serve with a small side of cottage cheese and/or fruit, and you're good.
If you would like some other quick/delicious dinner ideas let me know!
God bless!
M. D