Bringing a meal to a friend whose just had a baby or who is going through a hard time is such a tangible and practical way to offer support. Over the years I’ve brought and received many meals and have found that some hold up better than others in transport and as leftovers. Additionally, I always double the recipe I’m making and serve my own family the same meal.
Here’s a list of my favorites to rotate through.
- Enchiladas paired with black beans and a simple green salad, this is a winner! Comfort food at its best. Can also be frozen and given to a friend to pull out of the freezer when needed.
- Whole Roast Chicken with carrots and Caesar salad: I absolutely love this meal and always get rave reviews when I bring it to people. The leftovers are delicious as well and can be used lots of ways.
- P.F. Chang’s Inspired Chicken Lettuce Wraps: I’ve never made this recipe but it’s been made for us and we loved it! The veggies in the chicken mixture are chopped super small, invisible to even the pickiest of children.
- White Chicken Chili: a classic favorite in our family. I like to serve it with chips, shredded cheese and a simple green salad.
- California Bowls: I like this option because you can mix and match based on your (and your kiddos) preferences: quinoa, grilled chicken, grilled veggies, avocado, nuts, feta or goat cheese, fresh greens, and balsamic dressing make this a flavorful and easy meal.
- Mississippi Pot Roast: classic pot roast with a twist: pepperoncinis! Might sound strange but the flavor is next level.
- Deliver Zoe’s Family Meal Kabobs: if you’re out of town or just too busy to cook, this is an excellent option and great deal! The chicken kabobs are a great choice paired with the Greek salad, hummus, and roasted potatoes. If you’re feeling generous include the chocolate cake or chocolate chip cookies, both are to die for!
- Whole Foods Prepared Meal & Snack Delivery: an out of town friend recently did this for us recently and it was perfect! She sent two kinds of soup that we easily warmed up on the stove, a delicious prepared salad, a loaf of bread, and then a variety of snacks like clementine oranges, apples, crackers and good chocolate. You could also throw in some fresh flowers!
Extras: If I’m on my A-game, I’ll include some extras. I love making homemade blueberry muffins or granola for the family to have on hand for an easy breakfast the next morning. Fresh berries with honey whipped cream make for an excellent and light dessert. A bag of nice coffee, fancy chocolate or a bottle of wine are fun to include as an extra thoughtful treat.
Additionally, I’ve really been trying to deliver the food in containers that don’t have to be returned. A large foil pan works really well for the hot portions of the meal and gallon zip lock bags work well for salads or other cold things. Some paper plates, napkins and plastic cutlery makes the clean up fast and easy for the recipients as well!
