Jade Roper Tolbert talks eating well, easy dinners and culinary creativity

While she might have won Bachelor in Paradise, Jade Roper Tolbert has an enduring love for cooking. Having gone to culinary school, Tolbert knows a few tips and tricks that can make healthy eating worthy of earning a rose. Whether it is a romantic dinner or family meal packed with vegetables, even the busy mom can find the simple solution to make dinner time a breeze.

Some home cooks have food hacks that turn cooking from being a chore to feeling more like a cheerful event. Instead of the complicated recipes with a long list of ingredients, a versatile food or ingredient can be the solution for both cooking ease and healthy eating.

Jade Roper Tolbert simple solution for easy, healthy family meals

As many families appreciate, the dinner hour can be a struggle. From busy schedules to feeling overwhelmed, pushing a button to place an order might seem like the easier solution.

Tolbert takes a different approach. When asked, she said, “With three kids to feed, things can get hectic, but I still want to provide them with meals that are healthy and delicious. I love using shortcuts to make home cooked meals more approachable – I’ve been using riced veggies as a swap for white rice for dinner lately because they’re pre-seasoned with tons of chopped veggies and herbs, so I just heat it up, throw it on a plate with some protein and we’re good to go!”

At the same time, Tolbert understands that it can be a struggle to get kids excited about a plate full of vegetables. In her household, it is about blending the familiar with the good for you.

Tolbert said, “my tip is to always have something on the plate that the kids love or are familiar with, alongside anything new you are introducing. This way it helps them feel more comfortable with what they’re eating. Del Monte’s Veggieful Pocket Pies are a big hit with the kids because they think it’s just pizza but I can sneak in healthier things like spinach, mushrooms and real cheese – and Tanner has no idea it is cauliflower crust!”

Those healthy eating swaps are many ways that families overcome that veggies struggle. Culinary creativity doesn’t have to be a recipe from a celebrity chef. Sometimes the simple solution is the one that keeps arriving at the table.

How does Jade Roper Tolbert carve out some me time?

Like many busy moms, it can be hard to put “mom-time” on the to-do list. In some ways, that idea is almost like a luxury. But, that me time is vital.

When asked how she carves out some “me time,” Tolbert shared, “The thing that has helped me is being kind to yourself, as a mom you are often the last priority, and it doesn’t have to be that way. To get that precious “me time” I suggest making meal planning and prepping easier. I use Del Monte’s Veggieful line because it is so easy to heat and eat – having riced veggies on hand in my freezer enables me to make delicious and healthy meals for my family that really doesn’t take any time at all. When you reduce the time it takes to cook dinner, you get longer in your evening to spend on yourself.”

As a mom of three, Tolbert believes that the idea of eating well to feel well is a priority too. Specifically, she said, “ It’s been a journey getting back on track after my third baby, and eating healthy is a priority for me, and the whole family! It’s one of the reasons why I partnered with Del Monte’s Veggieful line – they have so many healthy and tasty options that are convenient to cook when on a busy schedule. I love their Veggie Bowls b/c they also have whole grains like quinoa – you just mix it with the sauce included and it’s so easy and quick to pack for lunches – it even comes with a spork, which is great for when I’m on the go.”

Jade Roper Tolbert shares a simple solution a romantic meal

While the Bachelor and Bachelor in Paradise might create the perfect romantic setting, the real world paints a different picture. Even though that over-the-top event might seem like the best way to show that love, it isn’t. Putting a little romance on the table doesn’t have to be a huge production.

Tolbert shared, “Creating a romantic meal can be the last thing on your mind after a busy week but it’s important to me to schedule that time in. I know Tanner appreciates it too! I went to culinary school, so I have always loved to cook and use that knowledge every single day. I love Mexican food and it is always fun to make taco bowls, we can then separate the toppings and choose what we want. I have been using the Veggieful Riced as a base too and it is lighter than traditional white or brown rice so I can feel great afterward and less tired!”

What is your best tip for easy family dinner or how to boost healthy eating choices?