With New Year’s visiting and celebrations just around the corner – how do you put together a fun meal that takes various diet considerations into account? Why, “on the side” of course!
Byerly’s Real Food magazine (Winter 2011) offered some terrific chili recipes, but in every case, the Chorizo sausage, turkey or seasoned, cooked ground beef is served on the side. This is an excellent idea for many reasons:
1. It encourages guests to stop and think about how they will incorporate meat into their meal, or even if they will add it.
2. The meat is used as a flavoring, rather than the main course. This is a very healthy and planet-friendly way to eat.
3. It’s respectful of those who don’t eat meat or would rather not eat meat at the moment.
4. Guests can control the amount of meat so there is less waste and overall less meat consumed.
This can be done with chilis, with casseroles like chili mac or tuna casserole, fajitas, burritos, Asian stir-fried dinners and with salads.
Allowing guests to create their own meal combination means less work for the host. Simply place the ingredients on the coffee table or buffet – ready to go. Guests grab a low bowl or plate and take what they need. You enjoy your guests. Everyone wins.
For other fun and easy meal ideas you may also like Another Fabulous Friday, Chocolate Eclair Dessert, Super Easy Crock Pot Lasagna and No Cook Marinara & Pasta.
