We know that food choices can support our overall health, as can building and nurturing relationships with others. Some research suggests that loneliness can be harmful to health and connecting with others can provide many benefits. If you want more meaningful moments with family members and friends, we have some ways you can bond over delicious and nourishing meals and snacks.

Quality time, even when time is short 

Share a quick breakfast with your child, especially on the day of a big test, presentation, or just a groggy Monday to help boost them up.  

Pack a slow-cooked dish or skillet dish in a thermal container instead of making a fast-food stop. Connect with kids in the car traveling from school to an evening practice or other activity and hear about their day. 

Prepare meals as a family to connect across generations and extend the time you spend together.    

Skillet creamy pesto chicken caprese

Make snack time a point of connection, too. Take a look at our balanced snacking tips for inspiration.  

Share your favorite activity with a friend, like hiking, biking, or swimming and pack a homemade trail mix of Goldfish crackers, nuts, and dried fruit. 

Hosting others doesn’t need to be time intensive. Warm up your favorite soup and serve with bread and a simple salad and spend more time connecting than cooking.

Explore new flavors and connect over culture 

Take the time to prepare your favorite traditional family recipes and experiment with new flavors and globally-inspired dishes with your children and close friends. 

Start simply by preparing more plant-based proteins, ancient whole grains, exotic fruits, vegetables, or regional spice blends in recipes. 

If you are an adventurous eater, try a mash up of different culturally-inspired ingredients like this Chili Crisp Pasta alla Vodka recipe.

We hope these ideas help you connect with others and fuel your bodies. Enjoying quality time and good food together can support your overall wellness. Even the smallest and simplest moments can make a big difference. Want more easy ways to spend time with the people you love? Explore 6 simple tips to get family meals on the table more often.