Try The 30 Minute Meals

If you watch the Food Network often, you've found host Rachel Ray prepare great meals in just half an hour on her show 30 Minute Meals. And while you might not think you are able to do all the food, Ray whips up on the show, here are a couple of 30 minute meals, you should definitely try. 

Pasta 

Virtually any type of pasta will do, whether the bow-tie-shaped or long and flat, and you can make this great meal in under half hours. All you need to do is sauté tomatoes, onion, garlic, parsley and basil in a saucepan until tomatoes soften, or you can mix these ingredients in a food processor and season to taste. Cook your favorite pasta noodles, put some fresh vegetables in a saucepan, add butter and salt lightly. Then simply place a piece of garlic French bread in oven to toast and your meal will be ready in less time than you think. If you wish to make a white sauce for your pasta, just add cream, butter and Parmesan cheese to the mix. 

Tacos 

Who does not love tacos? This family therapy is a big meal if you are cooking light, and you can get the kids to help you with this. For 30 minutes meals, include ideas for tacos sautéing ground beef with taco seasoning to the filling, or you can use grilled tuna or chicken instead. For vegetarian tacos, seasoned beans or tofu are a good alternative. Add extra pages as lettuce, tomato, sour cream, onions and olives. Presto, you have a healthy meal that is really easy to do. 

Pizza

Whether you make your own crust or buy prepackaged crust, pizza is one of the 30 minute meals that are sure to make a hit with the family. You can buy or make small pizza crusts so that each family member can create their own pizza, or you can make a big pie, so the whole family can add their own favorite toppings. Add pizza sauce (you can use spaghetti sauce recipe above), along with your favorite toppings and let your pizza is baked for about 25 minutes. Add fresh veggies or a salad on the side and you're done! 

If you want more information on 30 minute meals, or cooking ideas you and your family can use every day, so check out the Food Network Web site (www.foodtv.com) for great recipe ideas and the best places to buy your favorite food. You can also tune into the Food Network cooking basics that will make your time in the kitchen, lots of fun even when you do not have much time. In today's fast-paced world, you still want your family to have the best, nutritious meals possible. Then about 30 minutes meals just may be the way to go for a few nights a week. Enjoy your time with loved ones and create a quick, healthy meal in days. Enjoy!