As a busy mom, I know how hard it can be to get a meal together and your family around the table. Mealtime is important and I know this. (If you’re curious, The Truth about Family Meals gives several examples of the benefits of family meals.) I also know how guilty I feel when I allow us to fall into the habit of eating too many meals away from home.
If you’re like me, here’s an idea. Lay your guilt aside and make a commitment to “Dine In” and share a meal with your family at home on December 3rd. This day was chosen as Family & Consumer Sciences Day (FCS) to honor the founder of the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences Ellen Swallow Richards. December 3rd was Ellen’s birthday.
Last year, more than 100,000 people committed to preparing and eating a healthy meal together. Join in the fun this year on December 3rd, make it a fun family event and share a meal together.
Here is a quick and easy recipe your whole family can enjoy.
Pork and Onions Italiano over Fresh Linguine
Busy day? Nothing planned for dinner yet? Put your worries aside! This flavorful Italian-inspired family dish is the answer. Convenience-type ingredients keep the cooking easy, quick, and inexpensive so you can maximize the time with your family.
1-1/4 pounds pork loin sirloin chops or pork shoulder blade steaks
2 teaspoons each oregano and ground cumin
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow or white onion (10 ounces), cut into narrow wedges
1 can (14 1/2 ounces) Italian recipe stewed tomatoes
1 package (9 ounce) fresh linguini or fettuccini pasta
Grated Parmesan and fresh or dried minced herbs
Trim off fat from the chops or blade steaks. Trim the meat from bones, and cut into small cubes. Dust pork with oregano and cumin. Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and pork and sauté until cooked through, about 8 minutes. Add tomatoes and heat. Cook linguine in boiling water about 2 minutes or as package directs. Drain and serve with pork-onion sauce on top. Sprinkle with cheese and herbs.
Makes 4 servings.
