An Easy December Meal Plan
I’m battling the December sniffles, so this week’s plan will be short and simple. After a busy weekend running kids to activities and helping them finish finals and homework, I’m ready for low-effort, comforting dinners. Here’s an easy, practical plan to get you through the week with minimal fuss and plenty of flavor.
MONDAY
Start the week by using what’s already in the freezer. I have a quart of frozen weeknight bolognese and several sweet potatoes from our Farmhouse Delivery. Slow-roasting the sweet potatoes brings out their natural sweetness and requires almost no hands-on time. While they roast, gently reheat the bolognese on the stove and serve together for a cozy, filling meal.
TUESDAY
It’s clean-out-the-freezer night. A couple of frozen wild Alaskan cod filets are perfect for quick weeknight fish tacos—season, pan-sear or bake, and assemble with tortillas and simple toppings. If tacos don’t appeal, homemade fish sticks are a nostalgic, kid-friendly alternative and easy to make. Serve with a quick tartar sauce or a herbed yogurt sauce, lemon wedges, and a big green salad to round out the meal.
WEDNESDAY
With cookie baking and holiday treats on the agenda—peppermint bark and rocky road fudge—a straightforward pasta dinner is ideal. Vegetarian carbonara with spinach (eggs, cheese, pasta, and greens) is both comforting and quick to pull together. If you have more time another night, Martha Stewart’s macaroni and cheese is a hearty option that feeds a crowd and is great for refueling before winter activities like skiing.
THURSDAY
Keep things simple with buffalo chicken wings. They’re flavorful, fairly quick, and can fit into a Whole30-style plan when prepared appropriately. Pair them with carrot and celery sticks and a ranch dip for an easy vegetable side that requires no special prep.
FRIDAY
Friday is for relaxing: pick up sushi and make a pot of super-fast miso soup to enjoy at home. It’s a low-effort evening perfect for watching Christmas movies, celebrating the end of midterms, and easing into the weekend.
This December meal plan focuses on simplicity, seasonal comfort, and using what you already have on hand. Swap in preferred recipes or leftovers as needed—small adjustments can keep the week manageable without sacrificing deliciousness.