The uncertainty and pressure brought on by an unexpected lockdown can seem overwhelming, but there is one thing you don't have to stress about - the cooking.
We have handpicked 11 recipes that are easy and practical; some use just a few pantry staples, while others can be made with the kids. Hopefully these fuss-free recipes will help to make the next three days more bearable, even if just a little.
A good start: Out of this world overnight oats
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Soaking oats overnight makes them easier to digest and means that you have a healthy breakfast for the kids, ready for them to grab, no heating or messing around required.
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Advertise with NZME.No bake snack: Fridge flapjacks
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When everyone is home and hungry, or even if you do manage to get out of the house you need sustenance. These flapjacks are simply mixed together in a bowl, spread on a tray and placed in the fridge to set.
Leftover fun: Chicken salad sushi rolls
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With some leftover chicken and a sachet of 90 second rice these rolls become super easy, and rather fun.
Bake yourself calm: Easy banana bread
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Advertise with NZME.Even though most of us are even busier trying to work from home, there is something about a lockdown that makes you want to bake.
Plan ahead: Mini mousse
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Occupy their afternoon and encourage them to eat their dinner with the promise of a cute mug of chocolate custard mousse for dessert.

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Advertise with NZME.From the pantry: Simple tuna linguine
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Hook into this pantry staple that's high in protein and low in fat with this quick but impressive pasta.

One-pan wonder: Baked chicken with tomatoes, aubergine and olives
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Italian flavours come to life in this tasty and satisfying meal that is a cinch to make. We love to serve this on a bed of orzo, with a crunchy green salad on the side.
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Advertise with NZME.Humble and hearty: Beef, red wine and mushroom stew
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Let your oven or slow cooker do most of the work in creating this comfort meal. Leftovers freeze well too.
Use what you have: Egg fried rice with chicken and prawns
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An affordable protein, eggs provide endless options for breakfast, lunch and, in this case, a crowd pleasing dinner.
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Advertise with NZME.Lighten up: Light butter chicken
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Some of our favourite takeaway meals taste amazing because they are packed with sugar and fat. Butter chicken, everyone's favourite, is a great example of that, so why not switch it out for a lighter version like this one.
Thirst quencher: Strawberry and mint cordial
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This delicious last-of-the-summer cordial is easy to make and will be a fun treat for this kids, without the guilt, as contains a lot less sugar than store bought soft drinks.