With every New Year comes new products, new trends and new fashions - out with the old and in with the new. There are some things, however, that are always in style, like a good old fashioned family dinner.

Here are some reasons why you and your family should keep the spirit of the family dinner alive and well in ‘09.

Educating before Eating

With childhood obesity at an all-time high, many nutritionists are encouraging families to involve children in selecting and cooking foods at home as a way to teach them about making healthy choices. When children feel a part of the process, they are more likely to make smarter choices. Family dinners are also a great forum to talk to your kids about healthy eating and learn more about what their favorite healthy meals are.

The key is to start simple. Visit the “Convenient Meals” section of www.HormelFoodsRecipes.com for help planning your family’s weekly menu.

Learn by Listening

One of the best reasons to gather the family together throughout the week is that it allows everyone to regroup and refuel together. Use this time to talk, and actually listen, to one another. Get to know your kids better. Use fun tools like a book of questions to encourage dialogue.

Downsizing the Dinner Budget

With an uncertain economy, most families are keeping a close watch on daily expenses, especially food. One of the best ways to save is to dine at home, and luckily there are a host of products out there that can help you stay on-budget without sacrificing a delicious meal.

A good, low-cost solution is Hormel Mary Kitchen hash. It provides a blend of beef, diced potatoes and a touch of seasonings can create a variety of simple, hearty meals, such as Quick and Easy Pizza, that the whole family can enjoy making and eating together.

By following these tips, at the end of the year, your family might not only have a fresh perspective on family dinners, but also on each other. 

For more tips, or to find these and other family dinner recipes, visit www.HormelFoodsRecipes.com.

Quick and Easy Pizza

Serves 6

1    can (15-ounce) Hormel Roast Beef Hash

1/2        cup chopped onion

1    can (4-ounce) sliced mushrooms, drained

1/4        cup sliced pimiento-stuffed or ripe olives

3/4         teaspoon garlic powder

1    (8-ounce) can pizza sauce

1 1/2     cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1         (16-ounce) Italian bread shell or 1 (12-inch) baked pizza crust           

Heat oven to 450∫ F. In large skillet, cook hash until crisp. Stir in onion, mushrooms, olives and garlic powder. Place bread shell on large baking sheet. Spread with pizza sauce. Top with hash mixture; sprinkle with cheese. Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until thoroughly heated and cheese is melted.