12 Ways to Get out of Your Dinner Rut This Spring

Stuck in a supper rut? We took a walk though our recipe archives and are putting the dinner spotlight on some old favourites. We've got make-ahead meals that will free up time on busy weeknights, seasonal soups that will keep you warm while the weather is still cool, healthy burgers and a favourite weekend entertaining recipe that can be made in the slow cooker.

Breakfast for dinner takes on a new meaning when your favourite morning meal ingredients—crispy bacon and baked eggs—are scattered over a golden pizza crust and topped with gooey cheeses.

Infused with tangy buttermilk and grainy Dijon, and topped with a chunky avocado relish, this family-friendly dinner will happily remind everyone that summer is less than three months away.

Put an extra spring in your step this month by swapping traditional breads and buns for crispy lettuce wraps in this updated 'sandwich'.

Certain to become a family favourite, these tostadas are a fancied up version of tacos with less work thanks to the slow cooker. If you have vegetarians in the group, swap the pulled pork with pinto beans as the main protein.

Swapping yoghurt for sour cream is clever way to lighten up dishes. This pesto and caramelized onion fettuccine dish is the prefect balance of creamy, rich and satisfying—without being too heavy.

Impress your guests with this restaurant-style ragu that's hands-off and fuss-free. Good to Know: The pork ragu can be made up to two days in advance—perfect for a quick weekday dinner.

Tell them they're chicken fingers if you must, but mild-tasting cod and fluffy mashed potatoes are a perfect way to introduce fishy finger food to your youngsters. Serve with a tangy yogurt-based dip (because kids do love to dip) and this meal will be popular with everyone at the table.

For a more nutritious take on good old-fashioned mac and cheese, replace heavy butter and cheddar with light but protein-dense ricotta. Mini shells and petite peas make this bite-sized fare perfect for the little people at your table.

Meatballs are little bundles of goodness that are also perfect for dipping. Toddlers love that they are easy to eat and moms love that these are made with morsels of veggies hidden throughout.

Tender quinoa is tossed with crisp corn, fibre-rich black beans, and chili-spiced shrimp, before being dressed in an avocado and lime sauce. Quantities can be doubled or tripled easily, and the dish travels well for a warm-weather potluck. Tuck this in your back pocket for summer picnics and gatherings.

Pureed soups are an excellent way to get veggies into your little ones, and what could be better than a bowl of good-for-you soup? Your toddler will love the croutons carved from a beloved grilled cheese sandwich so much that they won't know they're drinking their veggies.

Not even the pickiest toddler will be able to resist this simple but flavourful dish. They'll like the fun-shaped pasta and crunchy breadcrumbs, you'll love that they're gobbling down nutrient-rich broccoli.