Most of my fondest memories of growing up are surrounded by summer barbeques, birthday parties, holidays, and Sunday lunches. To be quite honest my family doesn’t really need any of these mile marker events to get together we just do it. I am not sure who plans them but I know the first question any of us ask is “what should I bring”. People, who know me, know that I am the only one who would actually write an article like this, but it is true “food brings people together”.

I love cooking, eating, and feeding my family. Nothing is more exciting than having my wonderful nieces over, cooking a great meal, sitting down and having a great meal. Its kinda funny but one of my nieces always says she wants to learn how to cook and as soon the ingredients are all situated she sits on a stool and just watches. I don’t think she learns much but I learn a lot about her life. By the end of conversation, I know who she hates, likes, and her aspirations. I don’t pay much attention to her high school shenanigans because the next time we have the conversation she will hate and like different people. I can never keep up.

You do not have to take my word for why family meals are important, research has been conducted. According to a survey conducted by the University of Minnesota that appears in the August 2004 issue of The Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, frequent family meals are related to better nutritional intake, and a decreased risk for unhealthy weight control practices and substance abuse. A Harvard study published in the March 2000 issue of Archives of Family Medicine showed that eating family dinners together most or all days of the week was associated with eating more healthfully. The study indicated that families eating meals together "every day" or "almost every day" generally consumed higher amounts of important nutrients such as calcium, fiber, iron, vitamins B6 and B12, C and E, and consumed less overall fat, compared to families who "never" or "only sometimes" eat meals together.

Cooking can be fun and less time consuming than one can imagine. I have listed some of my favorite recipe spots below. Most of the recipes are quick and easy. Eating the meal does not have to be the only bonding time. Use the prep time and make it a family event from the shopping to setting the table. Also, research your local Department of Recreation and Parks for cooking classes, classes are affordable and quite enjoyable. Many of us have very busy schedules and it may be difficult to have a meal with our family, but try taking out some time share a meal and enjoy a good conversation.

http://www.kraftfoods.com
http://www.foodnetwork.com