Its 5:00 and you have no idea what to do for dinner. Before you head for the drive thru or pick up the phone to place an order why not try one of these quick cooking methods. You can put dinner on the table faster than it takes to deliver a pizza:

• Packet meals for the grill or oven using aluminum foil or parchment paper: Each person gets their own dinner packet. If everyone builds their own, preparation is fast and clean up is even faster!
• Pressure cookers: These are making a comeback – probably because we want the comfort of slow-roasted meals we don't have time to cook anymore. Pressure cookers are great for cooking affordable, lean pieces of meat - better for your wallet and waistline.
• Steamer bags: These bags aren't just for vegetables. Using your microwave, you can steam fish, beans, potatoes and vegetables in a matter of minutes. Some of the steamer bags have recipes on the box and list cooking times right on the bag!
• Wok: (don't have one, use a non-stick skillet) – grocery stores make this method easy by doing all the prep work. Buy a package of fresh or frozen stir-fry vegetables, add a low sodium sauce or spices, a little meat, fish, or tofu and you have dinner ready before the pizza is delivered.

Combine these quick cooking methods with a few convenience items and dinner can always be ready in a flash. A few items to keep on hand:

• salads in a bag
• quick-cooking brown rice
• canned beans, vegetables
• dried herbs, spices, and low sodium marinades

So the next time you need dinner in a hurry, try one of these quick methods. It's fast, healthy and better on your budget..