A food rut means different things to different people. Most of us have some variety in our diet, but perhaps we are getting bored with the same old foods, day after day. Busy schedules often lead to having routine meals for ease and convenience. While food provides our body with sustenance to thrive, food also offers pleasure, well-being and so much more. A food rut leads us to an “eat to live” momentum and can reduce the excitement at mealtime. If you find yourself in a food rut, or just getting bored with your meals, don’t despair. There are some easy fixes to add some excitement back into your diet.
- Try a new recipe and get creative.
- You don’t need to travel south for this delicious Shrimp and Grits dish made with cauliflower rice, coconut milk, and cheddar cheese.
- Tweak a favorite entrée with a new twist.
- These Garlic Chili Turkey Burgers are not your standard fare. Spiced up with garlic, ginger, hot sauce and scallions, these burgers explode with flavor.
- Or, try this Chicken Salad with Walnuts and Grapes. With a bit of crunch and a hit of sweetness, this dish offers a different taste compared to a traditional chicken salad.
- Embrace the season.
- Think pumpkin spice, cinnamon, sage, cumin, and rosemary. Get creative with winter squash, greens, and sweet potatoes. In this Pumpkin Arugula Pasta, a pumpkin puree provides a rich creamy sauce that will lift you out of any food rut.
- Keep a journal.
- It is no secret we eat differently from season to season. It may be hard to remember that delicious soup or savory salad that you enjoyed a year ago. Having a diary of sorts with favorite dishes, recipes and food notes goes a long way with meal planning and expanding day-to-day food variety.
- Find inspiration and try something new.
- Take a peek in the prepared food case at McCaffrey’s for quick bites or for menu ideas. Stop at the salad bar and consider the many offerings at your fingertips.
- Take a walk.
- A simple stroll up and down the supermarket aisles can help you re-imagine your diet.
- A new sauce, dressing or spice blend may be just the answer to jazz us a standard dish.
- Ask a McCaffrey’s fishmonger for fish recommendations and cooking methods.
- Stop by the cheese counter for suggestions on how a new cheese may “zhoosh up” a dish.
- Do some fun research.
- Whether you enjoy cookbooks or websites, reading menus or attending cooking classes, do a bit of exploring and expand your repertoire of food items.
- Enjoy a night out.
- Restaurants can be a great inspiration when it comes to exploring new foods.
- Turn on the TV.
- Learn about different food ingredients, cooking techniques, recipes ideas and more from any number of entertaining cooking shows!
- Ask friends and family.
- If you’re looking for inspiration for new ideas or recipes, talk to those nearest and dearest to you about food. They might be trying new recipes out and have meals and dishes they can recommend.
It isn’t always hard to get out of a food rut. Admittedly, it takes a bit of effort and energy to get that first push. But once you start digging your way out, it gets easier. The motivation comes with the ongoing rewards of interesting, delicious, and fun meals. For more information and ideas on Escaping the Food Rut, don’t miss the the upcoming program at McCaffrey’s!
