The cooler months bring packed work schedules, back-to-back holiday seasons, more appointments and "to-do's" — and often, less time to cook. If you're short on time, but big on nutrition and flavor, then you'll appreciate our cooking shortcut tips. Read on, and discover how to get the most out of meals with less time commitment.
Make use of frozen staples
Frozen foods, such as meats and vegetables, offer great value, especially if you purchase Giant Eagle® or Valu Time brand items. Did you know they can save you time, too? Frozen vegetables come pre-cut and pre-washed — you only need to thaw them on the stove or in the microwave and they're ready to add to your favorite recipes. And, most frozen meats only require a bit of defrosting time — then you can begin baking, frying, roasting, or whatever you favor!
Of course, if you have plenty of fresh vegetables from Giant Eagle®, it pays off to freeze them for later. Check out our tips on freezing and canning safely for best results.
Get re-acquainted with your slow-cooker
Slow-cooker cooking and chilly nights go together perfectly. The beauty of slow-cooker cooking lies in its hands-off nature. If you prepare your ingredients — such as stew meats, vegetables, broths, and potatoes — ahead of time, the cooker works its magic while you work or attend class. Six to 12 hours after you prep your food, your slow-cooked meal will tempt you with its delightful aroma.
Slow-cooked meals offer another plus for those short on time: They're so hearty that they require little food in addition to the main course. Just serve your slow-cooked course with bread and a green salad, and you'll offer your family a nutritious, no-fuss meal.
Sandwiches and salads make great meals
If you crave a simple and hassle-free dinner, look no further than sandwiches or salads. Both are endlessly customizable, take just minutes to make, and feature pre-packaged ingredients for ultra-fast prep time.
Bonus: When made using fresh produce, calcium-rich cheese, lean meats, and low-fat toppings, sandwiches and salads provide excellent nutrition for the whole family. Beloved favorites like chicken Caesar salad and grilled cheese with tomato, when served with a side of fruit or vegetables, make a simple and complete meal.
Bookmark speedy recipes
One of the easiest ways to speed up your cooking is to check prep times on recipes. If a recipe seems complex, requires additional tasks or needs ingredients that demand finesse in the kitchen, they're best skipped on busy weeknights.
Your best bets: Recipes that take 30 minutes or less of prep time. Need a few culinary inspirations? Check out our "Meals in Minutes for Less" guide and enjoy a variety of main courses, sides and lightening-fast desserts. Or, make a meal of naturally quick — but good-for-you foods like assorted bruschetta or antipasti.
Make enough for leftovers
Heat-and-eat meals are the fastest kind out there. Save money and make your own by cooking double batches of your favorite meals, and then freezing or refrigerating the leftovers for a second (or even third) meal!
Bonus: Since your main course is already made, you'll have more time to try out new sides, adventurous salads or unique desserts.
Use mixes and other shortcuts
When it comes to making bread, cake, casseroles, or biscuits, count on mixes. By eliminating prep-work, mixes reduce the time you'll spend in the kitchen significantly — and many mixes offer nutritional profiles equivalent to made-from-scratch dishes, too.
Complement meals with pre-made foods
Look for ways to add pre-made foods to your meals. For example, if you're too busy to bake, look for specials on bread at Giant Eagle® — or stop by the Giant Eagle Bakery® to pick up a fresh loaf. Bagged salads, pre-cut vegetables and fruit and easy, ready-made sides like canned baked beans or tubs of potato salad complement your meal with no extra work.
When you're pressed for time, don't stress. Our easy cooking shortcuts help make your meal ready in no time. Enjoy!
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