Quick and easy sides

 As a working mum I know that when you get home in the evening you just want to pop something in the oven or microwave whilst you sort out the kids, change into something more comfortable and then sit down and relax.  So it's understandable that many people turn to ready made convenience food, I mean it's easy enough to shove a pizza in the oven with some garlic bread. 

Yes, cooking some healthier options does cross your mind every now and again. Perhaps some fish or meat instead? But then you have to start thinking about a side to go with it and before you know it, cooking becomes a complicated part of the day. Well fear not, here are some really quick, easy and most importantly cheap sides to go along with your weekday evening meal.

Side dishes

These are home grown potatoes but it is really simple to cut a few new potatoes up, put them in a microwaveable bowl with some butter and mint (if you have it), then cook them until soft.  You can always add a few frozen peas to make a great side dish to go with any meal.

​Rice noodles are also a quick and easy to make and are really cheap.  Just place them in a bowl and pour boiling water over them, leave until soft, then drain and toss them into a salad.  This side tastes great sprinkled with sweet chilli sauce and is so filling it is all you need for a side and goes great with any meat or fish dish.  If you are not a fan of rice noodles replace them with egg noodles or some left over pasta.

​Lentils also make great side dishes, they are full of protein and fill you up.  Supermarket own brand lentils are always good value and if you find them a bit bland add some spices or olive oil with some balsamic vinegar.  Again, you can mix with some cooked peas (I always cook mine in the microware) or a tin of sweetcorn to give a bit of  crunch, colour and taste.

​Couscous is another favourite of mine, I usually add some raisons or sultanas, some peas, sweet corn or left over veg from a Sunday roast to make this side a feast in its own right.

​Spinach is another cheap side dish and so simple to make  as you can just microwave it in the bag. Don't worry if it's a bit bland, add some spices or nutmeg.  With some microwaved new potatoes as described above you have made two healthy cheap sides without having to put the hob on or use a single saucepan!  Result I'd say!!!!

A-Z OF RECIPES