The art of delivering healthy meals to someone in need – it’s a gesture that’s both practical and thoughtful. I mean, who doesn’t love a good meal train when they’re feeling under the weather or navigating the chaos of new motherhood? As someone who’s been on both the giving and receiving end of this kindness, I can attest that it’s a game-changer. So, what makes a great dish to take to a friend in need? For me, it’s all about comfort food with a healthy twist.
When I had my first baby, my friends and family showed up with all sorts of delicious new mom meals that helped me survive those sleep-deprived days. And let’s be real, some were definitely more helpful than others (I’m looking at you, pizza delivery guy!). But the ones that really stood out were the freezer casseroles and meal train ideas that were both nourishing and easy to reheat. So, if you’re looking for some inspiration to take to a friend who’s postpartum or sick, you’re in the right place!
Chicken and Rice Casserole
This classic comfort food dish is a staple for a reason – it’s easy, delicious, and can be made in bulk.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups mixed veggies (peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken and veggies in olive oil until the chicken is cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, chicken mixture, and thyme.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love It:
This casserole is a meal train idea that’s hard to beat – it’s easy to make, serves a crowd, and can be frozen for later. Plus, it’s a great way to get some comfort food healthy vibes going, with brown rice and mixed veggies adding some nutritious goodness to the dish.
Lentil Soup
Lentils are a superfood that’s packed with protein, fiber, and all sorts of good stuff. And when you turn them into a hearty soup, you’ve got a healthy meal that’s perfect for a new mom or someone feeling under the weather.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery in a little bit of oil until tender.
2. Add the lentils, broth, and diced tomatoes to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 30-40 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Why You’ll Love It:
This soup is a healthy meal to take to someone because it’s easy to transport, can be made in bulk, and is full of nutrients. Plus, it’s a great way to get some comfort food healthy vibes going, with the lentils and veggies providing a boost of energy and nourishment.
Quinoa and Black Bean Bowl
This healthy meal is a flavorful and filling option that’s perfect for a new mom or someone looking for a nutritious pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Lime juice and salt to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, bell pepper, and onion.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and squeeze some lime juice over the top.
4. Season with salt to taste.
Why You’ll Love It:
This bowl is a meal train idea that’s hard to beat – it’s easy to make, can be customized with your favorite toppings, and is full of protein and fiber. Plus, it’s a great way to get some comfort food healthy vibes going, with the quinoa and black beans providing a boost of energy and nourishment.
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
This healthy meal is a delicious and satisfying option that’s perfect for a new mom or someone looking for a nutritious dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the spinach, feta cheese, and garlic.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach mixture and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Why You’ll Love It:
This chicken is a healthy meal to take to someone because it’s easy to make, can be frozen for later, and is full of nutrients. Plus, it’s a great way to get some comfort food healthy vibes going, with the spinach and feta providing a boost of energy and nourishment.
Butternut Squash and Apple Soup
This healthy meal is a delicious and comforting option that’s perfect for a new mom or someone feeling under the weather.
Ingredients:
- 1 large butternut squash
- 2 apples, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the butternut squash in the oven for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until tender.
4. Add the roasted squash, apples, and broth to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 20-25 minutes.
Why You’ll Love It:
This soup is a meal train idea that’s hard to beat – it’s easy to make, can be made in bulk, and is full of nutrients. Plus, it’s a great way to get some comfort food healthy vibes going, with the butternut squash and apples providing a boost of energy and nourishment.
In conclusion, delivering healthy meals to someone in need is a thoughtful and practical gesture that can make all the difference. Whether you’re looking for meal train ideas, new mom meals, or comfort food healthy options, these recipes have got you covered. With their emphasis on freezer casseroles, healthy meal options, and comfort food healthy vibes, you’ll be sure to find something that fits your needs. So go ahead, get cooking, and show your loved ones that you care!
