Eat, Drink, and Be Merry with Your Family

I have been to Italy twelve times and have eaten most of my meals in relatives’ homes. Meals are long, leisurely, family affairs. The food is always home cooked, fresh, delicious and nourishing. The conversation is spirited, and everyone takes his time to enjoy the food and each other. Often a cousin, niece, or nephew, drop in and another plate is set with out question or complaint. Quality family time, around the table, takes place everyday. Europeans see dinnertime as a chance to catch up with each other, to unwind, and get both physical and emotional sustenance.

Americans typically see dinnertime as something that has to be done, and be done quickly, because there is somewhere else to go. Evening activities add activity, education, and fun to our world, but so can family dinners. Education is gained when parents talk about overcoming the day’s challenges, a lot of laughter occurs when a funny story is told, encouragement is given when a problem is shared. A leisurely family dinner is a source of emotional and physical refreshment for everyone. A long dinner might not be possible daily, but it is definitely achievable a few times a week. It makes sense to eat well and to share good food and conversation with the ones you love. You can create treasured memories around the dinner table that will last you a lifetime.

Cooking is easier than you think and you are worth the time and effort it takes.

Simple cooking substitution: 1 cup buttermilk = ¾ cup plain, unsweetened, yogurt + ¼ cup whole milk.