Recipes that Travel with Ease OCTOBER 17, 2023 / KELLI NAPOTNIK / Transporting meals can be the most challenging part of taking a meal. Years ago, I decided to make a pot of soup for a friend who had recently had a baby. I knew I couldn't ladle hot liquid into a small-mouthed glass jar without causing a disaster. At a loss for ideas, I decided to use a pot I found at my local thrift store and delivered the soup in it. I let my friend know I wouldn't need the pot back. Whether you are cooking a meal or taking a pre-made dinner option, it's important to keep in mind the challenges that might make it more difficult to transport it to your loved one. Does this meal have sides? Can you bring everything in one pan? With that in mind, here are three of our favorite tested recipes that transport well!
Lasagna is one of my favorite meals! It's warm, comforting and makes leftovers exciting! The classic Italian herbs and melted cheese make this recipe a wonderful meal to take. It's easy to transport because you can bake the lasagna directly in a disposable 9x13 baking tray and carry it straight from the oven (once it's cooled, of course). This recipe definitely makes the list! With the main course all in one pan, this leaves you free to add extra items like a loaf of artisan bread.
This crockpot meal is one of our favorites at Take Them A Meal. Hannah Zwanzig, one of our own, often prepares this meal served with a side of jasmine rice. The balsamic chicken thighs recipe is a 'set it and forget it' gem that is easy, delicious and meets many dietary restrictions. The best part is it's ready in the crockpot in just four hours. You could set it up in the morning and all you need to worry about later is cooking the rice.
When you are cooking for someone with specific dietary restrictions, it makes a difference to use a recipe that is easy to follow and tastes delicious. These enchiladas burst with flavor and have a hearty helping of mushrooms, peppers and sweet potatoes. This recipe can be easily made gluten-free by using corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas. Once the vegetables are roasted, you can layer them together with the tortillas, salsa and cheese in one pan! Yum!
Using dishes or bakeware that doesn't need to be returned is a thoughtful gesture to any meal recipient. If you are looking for a more eco-friendly option, I found these disposable paper loaf pans to use instead of an aluminum 9x13 pan. Use two or three of them to bake your meal or opt for traditional glass or aluminum. I love that the trays are 100% recyclable!
We hope you find these recipes helpful the next time you are taking a meal and looking for something that transports well. Don't see any you want to make that I shared? Check out our Recipes section for many more ideas to choose from! We understand how important it is to deliver a healthy comforting meal to someone who is ill, just had a baby, or walking through a hard time in life. Remember that by doing so, you are showing your love and care in a genuine and heartfelt way!
Do you have a recipe you love that transports well? Share with us on Instagram or Facebook, we'd love to hear from you!
#1: This invisible ghost craft is so cute and requires very few materials. Include it with your next meal for a fun activity for the kids!
#2: This Ribbon Wreath Plate idea makes taking yummy treats a little more special!
#3: Are you looking for an easy and fun Halloween dessert? These Chocolate Halloween Pretzels are easily the cutest treats you can make in under 30 minutes!
#4: Are you in a cooking rut and don't know what to take someone? We've compiled some wonderful recipes on our Pinterest that are easy to make, will taste great, and travel well!
#5: Make Halloween S'mores Kits With Our FREE Printable Bag Toppers!
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Welcome! We're thrilled you stopped by. Our own joys and sorrows have taught us that a well-timed meal delivered by a friend is one of the best gifts imaginable. In this space, we share our favorite recipes to take to friends, meal-taking tips, and other ways to care for those who are dear to you. Helpful Posts
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