Kudos to all the single moms out there. I’ve been getting a taste of what life would be like as a single mom with two kids and it is tough (HUGE understatement). Here’s the detail that I neglected to mention for fear of being judged…I have only been alone with both of my little ones for 3 to 4 hours max, and that short window of time sends me into a tailspin. I’m exhausted just thinking about riding solo with two kids for 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Tonight was one of those nights. My husband walked in late from work, blew a few kisses, then walked right back out for his CrossFit classes. So I had the pleasure of preparing a toddler-friendly dinner with one child on my hip and the other tugging at my yoga pants. My multitasking skills were challenged further trying to feed a ‘picky eater’ while nursing my ‘frequent feeder’. Thankfully I still had a bit of fuel in my tank to bath at least one of the girls (two would be pushing it), then read a story and sing songs to my toddler with a 3 month old in tow.
Now the tank is empty. I am writing this post while running on fumes alone.
My only saving grace tonight was this colourful recipe. It takes less than 5 minutes to prep, has a mere 6 ingredients (all of which you can find in your cupboard, fridge or the nearest grocery store). It’s perfect for a potluck, picnic, and even your picky eater’s plate. It’s a one-stop shop meal with protein, carbohydrates and fat all in one bowl.
Black Bean, Mango & Avocado Salad
Servings: 4-6 people
Prep Time: 5-10 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of black beans (if buying canned, look for a brand like Eden which has BPA-free lining)
- 1 mango
- 1 avocado
- 1 red pepper (roasted red pepper is a great alternative)
- 3 Tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice (or more to your liking)
Optional additions:
- Handful of chopped cilantro
- 1 Tbsp olive, flax, or other oil
- 1 tomato
- 1/2 cup red onion
- 1/2 cup corn (I prefer slicing the corn right off the cobb vs. canned. Either one, make sure the corn is organic)
Directions:
- Rinse black beans (if canned) and chop mango, avocado, red pepper into bite sized pieces suitable for your little one.
- Put all ingredients in a bowl and toss with lime juice.
Thank you to this salad for bringing some colour into our meal and my night. Alas, my husband is home and I am free (at least until I’m back on nursing duty).
