Ep 2. Fast Track to Family Time

In the second episode of season 5 of "30 Minute Meals," titled "Fast Track to Family Time," host Rachael Ray offers up quick and easy dinner recipes that are perfect for busy families on the go. From a hearty pasta dish loaded with chicken and vegetables to a flavorful Asian-inspired stir fry, these recipes are designed to help families spend more time together at the dinner table and less time in the kitchen.

The episode begins with Ray sharing her recipe for roasted chicken with root vegetables. Using a whole chicken, Ray shows viewers how to quickly prepare a flavorful rub made with garlic, rosemary, and lemon zest. The chicken is then roasted in the oven alongside a medley of root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips, creating a one-pan meal that is both delicious and easy to clean up.

Next up, Ray whips up a quick and easy pasta dish that is sure to please the whole family. Her chicken and vegetable pasta combines rotisserie chicken with sautéed mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers, all cooked together with your favorite pasta in a tasty pesto sauce. With just a few simple ingredients, this dish is ready in just 30 minutes and is sure to become a family favorite.

For a more exotic dish, Ray dives into Asian-inspired flavors with her ginger beef and snow peas stir fry. This dish combines tender strips of beef with fresh snow peas, green onions, and a spicy ginger sauce. Served over a bed of rice, this dish is a great way to add some variety and excitement to your family's dinner routine.

Finally, Ray wraps up the episode with a sweet treat that is perfect for dessert or a midday snack. Her homemade granola bars are loaded with oats, dried fruit, and nuts, making them a healthier alternative to store-bought granola bars. With just a few minutes of prep time and a quick turn in the oven, these bars are a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth while still staying on track with your healthy eating goals.

Overall, "30 Minute Meals" season 5 episode 2 is a great resource for busy families looking to spend more time together at the dinner table. With quick and easy recipes that are both tasty and nutritious, this episode is sure to become a go-to resource for families looking to simplify their mealtime routine.