Easy veg skewers for back-to-school nights that aren't easy

[...] it's also an incredibly busy time of year with sports and activities kicking in, not to mention parent nights at school, fall festivals, fundraising auctions and all the other must-do events that mark the start of another school year.

[...] all my healthy eating plans focus on quick and easy meals that can be prepped not just on a regularly busy weeknight, but also on a weeknight jammed with more than the usual dance classes, soccer practices and meet-the-teacher events.

[...] I give a hint of oniony flavor from some mild chopped chives at the end.

Because who needs to worry about undercooked onion when there is spelling homework to be done?

If you are using wooden skewers, it's a good idea to soak them in warm water for 30 minutes or so before threading the vegetables onto them.

Grill or broil the skewers (if broiling, set them on a wire rack placed over a rimmed baking sheet) for 6 minutes, then flip and cook for another 4 to 6 minutes, or until nicely seared.

Nutrition information per serving: 200 calories; 120 calories from fat (60 percent of total calories); 13 g fat (2 g saturated; 0 g trans fats); 0 mg cholesterol; 600 mg sodium; 18 g carbohydrate; 4 g fiber; 14 g sugar; 3 g protein.