By Elesha Ergle, RDN
It is that time of the year when we aren’t quite ready for summer, although in Alabama it could go either way, and we are tired of the cold. Spring forward into March with some new and exciting beef recipes. Beef is an excellent source of protein and iron and is a versatile staple that can create a wide variety of recipes to satisfy any time of the year. With spring activities beginning, quick and easy recipes are the go-to for a lot of families. If you’re burned out on the same old things, give these tasty ideas a try!
Will Travel for Beef
Travel sports parents everywhere know that one of the keys to not losing your mind (or spending all your money) is to be prepared for the weekend’s upcoming events. A tried-and-true staple for our family is all beef hotdogs that we cook ahead and put in a thermos to keep warm. Add buns and condiments and the whole family can eat without breaking the bank. Make up a container of Roast Beef and Veggie Wraps to add to your cooler and you will have a super satisfying on-the-go meal. For those cooler times, make some meatballs with sauce such as these Four Way Mini-Meatballs and keep warm in an insulated container, grab some sweet rolls and have mini-meatball sliders to fill you up. Don’t forget about all the delicious flavors of beef jerky and beef sticks that you can always keep handy to grab at any time.
Late Night Dinners
Homework, sports, jobs…how do you keep your family fed without running through the drive-thru every night? Plan ahead for the week by cooking up large batches of easy, reheatable foods such as a roast to make roast beef sliders, tacos, or quesadillas. Cook a large batch of ground beef that can be quickly seasoned for spaghetti or sloppy joes. Take advantage of your slow cooker and have these Tangy BBQ Sandwiches ready when you get home.
It is a busy time of the year! Take advantage of beef’s versatility, portability, and great protein to keep your family going. For more great recipes and information on beef from pasture to plate, visit Beef It’s What For Dinner.
Happy Spring from all of us at Alabama Cattlemen’s Association!
This article was funded by the Alabama Beef Checkoff Progam. Paid for by Alabama beef farmers and ranchers.