Delicious Dinners in a Dash
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With after-school activities, late workdays, and long commutes, it’s no wonder so many people resort to a drive-thru or pizza place to feed their families in a flash. Unfortunately, these convenient options can be hard on your wallet and your waistline. The good news is, you don’t have to sacrifice eating healthy just because you’re busy. Listed below are several delectable dinner ideas that can be prepared in minimal time.
Quick Sauté
Best with thin cuts of meat or ground meats. Add chopped veggies like carrots, bell peppers, mushrooms, or asparagus. Start by preheating a 12-inch skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes, add 1 TB oil and protein, cooking until browned on one side, flipping and repeating until cooked throughout. Remove protein, add more oil (if needed) and veggies. Sauté until fork tender. Top with fresh herbs.
- Shrimp with snow peas, carrots, scallions, basil & tamari
- Ground beef medley with chopped asparagus & red pepper
- Pork chops with mushrooms, onions & kale
Under the Broiler
Best for thin cuts of meats, poultry or seafood like salmon fillets, chicken tenderloins or skirt steak. Perfect for veggies like asparagus, bell pepper slices, tomato slices, small mushrooms or sliced portobello. Start by preheating the broiler for 5 minutes. Spread desired protein on an oven-proof rimmed baking sheet. Broil foods for about 3-6 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
- Salmon fillets with asparagus & mushrooms
- Chicken tenderloins with red peppers & broccolini
- Portobello mushroom pizzas with tomatoes, cheese & olives
Rotisserie Chicken
Look for natural, organic chicken with minimal ingredients. Enjoy with salads, raw veggies or leftover vegetables from last night’s dinner.
- Chicken with sliced tomatoes & cucumber
- Chicken spinach salad with avocado & grapefruit
- Chicken with carrots, red peppers, hummus & olives
Simple Salads
Fresh salads are great with cooked or leftover meats, poultry, fish or seafood.
- Turkey salad with spinach, bacon, tomato & avocado
- Canned tuna salad with green beans, red potatoes & tomatoes
- Sliced roast beef with arugula, red bell peppers & raw milk cheese
Slow Cooker or Crock Pot
Best for thick or tough cuts of meat like pork shoulder, beef chuck roast, or chicken thighs. Surround the meat with firm veggies like carrots, potatoes, rutabagas, or parsnips. Add enough chicken broth, water or other liquid to cover the ingredients 2/3 the way up. Stir in tender veggies like kale, spinach or collards during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Top with fresh herbs.
- Pulled pork tacos with tomato salsa & guacamole
- Beef stew with carrots, mushrooms, onions & kale
- Goat shoulder roast with sweet potatoes & spinach
If you have more time, try these other cooking methods like roasting, braising and grilling. A Sous Vide also provides an easy, mouth-watering option for cooking meats, poultry, fish, seafood, eggs, vegetables and fruits.
Contact Cate to learn more delicious ways to improve your nutrition!
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