It’s time to gather around the table! Here at Libby’s, we believe in the power of family meals and know that the most memorable moments are those created around the dinner table when the whole clan can enjoy a wholesome, nutritious spread together. This is an important habit year-round, but especially during September. Why? It’s National Family Meals Month™! Libby’s is proud to celebrate this movement and encourages your family to get involved by Raising Your Mitt to Commit™ to one more meal together per week. To help make that happen, we’re highlighting simple, healthy meal solutions.
But first, a bit of science to back us up. Numerous studies underscore the long-term health, academic and societal benefits of consistently eating together as a family, and recent research shows that home-cooked meals nourish the spirit, brain and health of all family members. What’s more, regular family meals are linked to the kinds of outcomes that we all want for our children: higher grades (hello straight A’s!) and self-esteem as well as healthier eating habits and less risky behavior.
The bad news? According to a 2013 Harris poll, only 30 percent of American families share dinner every night. Juggling jobs, kids and the demands of a busy, modern life often comes at the expense of quality family meals, but this doesn’t need to be the case. The Libby’s Digital Recipe Box has hundreds of delicious, easy and wholesome meal ideas that will get your family back to the table in no time. Here’s one menu idea that you can try out this week.
Kick off your family meal with this Easy Three Bean Salad. Pair it with chips for a perfect scoop-able appetizer, or serve alongside your main course for a fiber-filled side dish. Want an entrée that’s not only easy, but fun for the whole family to make and eat together? These Easy Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a great way to have an Asian-inspired night! Finally, who could forget dessert? Entice the kids to finish their dinners by serving up our Easy Peach Crisp.
As the new school year starts, we challenge you to renew your commitment to designated family meals that will nourish your kids—and the entire family. Pledge to Raise Your Mitt to Commit™ to sharing one more family meal at home per week. Follow us on Facebook @LibbysTable and Twitter @LibbysTable for family meal inspiration, including shopping tips and recipes. Share your own family meal experiences, misadventures and solutions within your social channels. And, remember, use the hashtag #familymealsmonth to be part of the conversation!
