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5 Healthy, Easy Meals To Take to Your Mom Friend

Help out a busy mom in need with one of these quick, easy and well-balanced meals

Help out a busy mom in need with one of these quick, easy and well-balanced meals

Whether she has her hands full with a newborn, is heading back into the office after maternity leave or is grappling with something more personal like the loss of a loved one, the mom in your life can always benefit from your support. Sometimes you can show support by just being there to listen, other times you can help out by taking a chore or task off her hands. Showing up with a home-cooked meal is a great way to show your love and help a mom out! While I’ve never said no to a creamy pasta dish, I also have some favorite healthy dishes that are easy to make and have something for everyone. Make one of these recipes to show a mom in your life just how much she and her family means to you. 💛

1. Tarragon Chicken with Asparagus Lemon and Leeks

Image by feasting at home
Image by feasting at home

Never underestimate the power of a simple sheet pan meal! This recipe is so simple and sure to please. All you need is some chicken, veggies and a few garnishes. Not every child is going to love asparagus, so substitute it with something simple like carrots, sweet potatoes or broccoli.  Bring this over to your friend’s house with a whole grain like quinoa to round out the meal.

2. Chicken, Pepper and Corn Stir Fry

Image by Food Network
Image by Food Network

This brightly-colored stir fry is sure to be a hit with the kids. Plus, it’s packed with protein and vitamin C, so moms can feel good about serving it to their kids. Add brown rice for some healthy carbs and an extra serving of fiber. If you’re feeling extra fancy, top it off with a fried egg!

3. 15-Minute Cauliflower Fried Rice

Image by Pinch of Yum
Image by Pinch of Yum

Vegetarian fried rice for the whole family in under 20 minutes? Sign me up! This yummy dish is packed with vegetables like cauliflower, carrots and edamame. This is a totally flexible recipe, so get creative and mix in some peas and peppers or add chicken or tofu for some protein. Go the extra mile and bring it over with some fortune cookies for after dinner––the kids will love sharing their fortunes with the family.

4. Chicken Stew with Farro

Image by Cookin’ Canuck
Image by Cookin’ Canuck

Soup does amazing things for the soul. Like an updated, heartier version of chicken noodle soup, this stew is packed with protein and fiber and is so easy to make. Preparation only takes 10 minutes, and then you leave the rest to the amazing Instant Pot—if you have one on hand. If not, there are simple instructions for stovetop cooking. Try this recipe before it gets too warm out!

5. Healthy Turkey Meatloaf

Image by Whole Foods Market
Image by Whole Foods Market

Meatloaf is one of those supper favorites that never gets old! You can supplement this leaner version of the classic recipe with a bag of frozen veggies, a simple side salad or a baked potato. You can also convert the loaf into meatballs to serve with some whole grain spaghetti that kids are sure to love.

Happy Cooking!

XO,
Florence Ann