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Last week we chatted about making time for YOU. This week, spend time with the people you care about and cook a homemade meal together. Not only can this be a healthier option than visiting a restaurant, it’s also cost-effective and a fun way to spend time with friends and family. You can do this several ways, including:

• Host a weeknight dinner party. Invite friends over, ask them to each bring a few ingredients and spend time making a meal together. Glam it up by creating place cards, designating a theme for the evening or having guests wear dressy attire. Complete the evening with a fun game and dessert!


• Have a family dinner around your table this week. Include your kids in the cooking process by asking them to do simple tasks. Have each family member leave electronics in another room and focus on learning about what each person has going on in their week. Let everyone pitch in on the clean up process, and finish the evening by watching a movie or playing a game.


• Plan a surprise date! Invite your significant other over for a date night in. Center the night around the other person by cooking his/her favorite meal, surprising him/her with a thoughtful present and don’t let him/her help with cleaning up. “Just because” surprises often turn out to be the best!

So, what to cook? Why not go all out? Try this menu!

For an appetizer, try making Greek Artichoke/Spinach Dip. Add a bag of tortilla chips for happy munching while you wait for your entrée to finish. Make Seasoned Grilled Steak or Spaghetti and Meatballs for your main dish - our grinders are perfect for adding a little extra to both of these dishes. Don’t forget dessert! A red velvet treat is the perfect topping.

What type of menu is your favorite to plan? What menu have you never attempted but would love to try?