BELLAIRE • MEMORIAL • RIVER OAKS • TANGLEWOOD • WEST UNIVERSITY

Quick and easy meals

By Lauren Michelle Williams, Contributing writer | August 1, 2016

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The Grilled Lamb Burger Pitas with Tzatziki Sauce are lighter and more tender than typical hamburgers. (Photo: The Junior League of Houston)

Cooking Buzz is produced in partnership with the Junior League of Houston, a women’s charitable and education organization founded in 1925.

The beginning of another school year is upon us, which brings excitement and an opportunity for a fresh start, but also a bit of chaos. As the ease of summer fades and busy schedules begin, we seek quick fixes and simplicity.

My mother, a wonderful cook, had a prerequisite for any meal she prepared – quick and easy. Mom prepared meals that required little time in the kitchen, which allowed for more time to be spent at the table in conversation.

I have adopted my mother’s mantra of quick and easy. My favorite is the Grilled Lamb Burger Pitas with Tzatziki Sauce from Peace Meals. The tzatziki sauce and these little burgers are a breeze to make with six or fewer ingredients each. Instead of the traditional ground beef that is used in the traditional burger, these pitas are made with ground lamb, less heavy and more tender. Sliced, slightly grilled onions with tomatoes and the amazing tzatziki sauce are perfect toppers to these delicious bites. To pair, the Greek Quinoa Salad is a healthy side dish. This salad takes a little longer to prepare, but is an easy grab-and-go dish for lunch the next day.

Quick and easy also means breakfast, lunch and even snacks. The sweet and salty Peanut Butter Granola from Peace Meals is a great breakfast dish to kick off your day and can be made in the morning or the night before. Mix it with your hands or, if you’re like me, a spatula or wooden spoon. Get dressed after – peanut butter on your outfit may not be your first choice of accessory.

My other favorite quick meal is the Asian Chicken Wraps from Peace Meals, taking about 20 minutes from start to finish. Once the chicken is ready, you can warm your tortilla and add any combination of toppings, and you are ready to eat. With a quick slice and a toothpick, these wraps can also be served as a party snack.