Tuesday night was veggie plate night. That meant that we were using up goodness from the garden.
And throwing in a box of macaroni and cheese for good measure (to make children smile).
Plus some homemade bread.
And store-bought red potatoes. It was delicious! I’ve shared before how we usually have a veggie plate at least one night a week or once during a two week, cheap eats meal plan. When veggies fill your plate, they are filling and, it goes without saying, good for you! Plus they are mega frugal.
Children can add toppings like butter, cheese and a shake of Jane’s Krazy Mixed Up Salt. Having a veggie plate this often gives children more opportunity to try and to like vegetables. Plus, by adding homemade bread and macaroni and cheese, there is always something on the table they really do like. And, letting children grow their own vegetable garden really makes them want to try it. My most finicky eater is growing a square foot garden full of squash and now loves squash and zucchini. Last year growing cucumbers made her a tasting fan.
Adults can add sweet tea or iced coffee to really round out this meal nicely.
Now, those red potatoes above? Several were left over. So, I saw this recipe from Southern Living for Potato Salad. Decided to try it on Wednesday night. It was a hit with all who tried it (two were hold outs).
Veggie plate. Potatoes x 2. Good for you.
All Things Beautiful says
We love to do this, too!
Maggie Hogan says
You have squash already?! Yum! Love veggie nights! With cornbread 🙂
Hodgepodgemom says
Maggie – I linked to this post on FB because it was an example of our veggie plate nights. I do wish we had squash already but no. We are going to have some black-eyed peas I made then tucked away in the freezer last month 🙂 Yes, cornbread is a wonderful compliment – we also like Southern Plate’s hoe cake because it is like a giant biscuit cooked in an iron skillet!
Ruth says
So how long do you slow cook the veggies?
Hodgepodgemom says
Hi Ruth – I suggest 4-5 hours on high or 6-10 hours on low – for the large amount of vegetables. All the details are in the recipe over at $5 Dinners: http://www.5dollardinners.com/2012/05/tricias-slow-cooker-vegetables-feed-the-larger-family.html Enjoy!