Before we had children, food was sensual, delicious, and a real delight. We loved restaurants, fine dining, cooking and wine pairing.
Food was not worn on my clothing, or a constant battle between what you "have to eat" and what you "should eat". It typically didn't end up on the floor, or blended into an unrecognizable mush. Sound familiar?
Soon after my first child was born, my husband and I vowed not to stop loving and enjoying food. I take pride and pleasure in cooking new recipes, entertaining multiple guests and pairing easy recipes with a feel of elegance. I didn't want to lose my passion for cooking and certainly didn't want to eat spaghetti over and over again because it's what my toddler likes.
Over the past few years, I had to adjust how I cook and what I cook. The result? Multiple meals of delicious seafood, new twists on appetizers and mouth-watering desserts. All served while children sleep or run around us.
Here are a few ways that I (try to) maintain my Lady of the White Cloth Napkin status:
Pick at least one night a week and serve the kids what they like - grilled cheese, leftovers, soup - and make you and your spouse what YOU like - crab legs, mussels, leg of lamb etc.
Use your good china. It may be collecting dust now, but it will make your dish look fancier.
Pre-plate the food. It comes to the table looking like a restaurant dish.
When possible, cook and eat after the kids are asleep (or at grandma's).
Serve all beverages in wine glasses. Preferably, your meal will be served with wine, but if you aren't drinking it, serve your juice or water in a wine glass to make the setting that much nicer.
Relax. Enjoy. I know many nights are a fight getting the kids to eat, or try something. But it's okay to let them run amuck a little on those special nights so that you can enjoy something delicious.
Lastly, there is no better meal than one you don't make. Enlist your spouse to be in charge of cooking on occasion, and treat yourself, if possible, to take out or eating out once and a while. Enjoy your food - it really is possible with kids.
Also, know that there are still nights where I eat, and serve, cereal for supper. It's all about balance.
Printer-friendly version