Four Time-Saving Kitchen Hacks

The one thing anyone and everyone could use more of is time! In today’s busy go-go-go world, there is little time for, well, downtime! But there are some ways to trim time spent in the kitchen (and reduce stress too!). Sphinx Date Co. shares four easy time-saving hacks in the name of less time spent in the kitchen.

• Plan (and Make) Ahead — With some creative planning, a few meals can be prepared so that they are ready to pop in the oven at the end of a long day. Spend some time on the weekend buying ingredients and putting together some casserole-style meals that can be simply popped into the oven after a long day. There are tons of helpful blogs and social media pages online that offer tips on make-ahead dinner recipes. To the internet! While there, check out recipes for easy one-pan or (one-pot or skillet) recipes that can be made in less than 30 minutes. Consider preparing veggies and fruits for easy snacking or making some nutritious muffins or energy balls for quick grab-and-go meals.
• Take the Short Cut… or the Slow Route — While some kitchen gadgets and accessories can become overwhelming, some can really help take the weight off! Utilizing an Instant Pot or an old fashioned crock pot is a time saver’s best friend! There is nothing like the “set it and forget it” ease of a crock pot and while an Instant Pot may have a few more bells and whistles, the concept is similar and it can really help shave off some time spent hovering over the stove.
• Check out a Local Meal Prep Service or Co-op — Skip the grocery store and instead order from a local meal prep company (there are so many out there and many offer very specific menus to accommodate a number of dietary needs) or look into having fresh produce delivered from a local farm. There is something so nostalgic about digging through a box of freshly harvested produce to create something wholesome for dinner.
•  Double up and Freeze! — When making meals like casseroles or large-batch items like soups and stews that save well, double the recipe and then freeze a portion to serve in a few weeks. That way, the meal can be served up like new again rather than seeming like leftovers, which, let’s face it can sometimes get stale or boring when served night after night.

In the name of saving time and hassle, Sphinx Date Co. encourages home cooks to use these four simple steps to cut their kitchen time in half. And for any special artisan items to liven up those meals, stop by the Palm & Pantry for great local one-of-a-kind ingredients, beer, wine, sweets and more.