Introduction
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to cook healthy meals can be a challenge. However, with a little planning and preparation, you can enjoy delicious and nutritious make ahead dishes that will save you time and keep you on track with your health goals. Whether you're a busy professional, a parent, or simply someone who wants to eat well without spending hours in the kitchen, these healthy make ahead dishes will become your new best friends.
1. Quinoa Salad
Ingredient:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 cup diced cucumbers
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water.
- In a medium saucepan, bring the water or vegetable broth to a boil.
- Add the quinoa and reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the water is absorbed.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, parsley, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Toss everything together until well combined.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
2. Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredient:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken breasts, then sprinkle the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly over each breast.
- Rub the seasonings into the chicken breasts to ensure they are evenly coated.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
3. Lentil Soup
Ingredient:
- 1 cup dried lentils
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine the lentils, vegetable broth, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, cumin, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
- Remove from heat and let the soup cool.
- Once cooled, transfer the soup to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- To serve, reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 12g
4. Veggie Stir-Fry
Ingredient:
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Pour the sauce over the vegetables and toss to coat.
- Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and let the stir-fry cool.
- Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
5. Overnight Oats
Ingredient:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond milk (or any other milk of your choice)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup fresh berries or sliced banana (optional)
Instructions:
- In a mason jar or airtight container, combine the rolled oats, almond milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, vanilla extract, and honey or maple syrup.
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Seal the jar or container and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 6 hours.
- When ready to eat, give the oats a good stir and top with fresh berries or sliced banana, if desired.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 8g
Conclusion
With these healthy make ahead dishes, you can easily stay on track with your health goals and save time in the kitchen. Whether you're looking for a quick and easy lunch option or a satisfying dinner, these recipes have got you covered. From quinoa salad to baked chicken breast, lentil soup to veggie stir-fry, and overnight oats, there's something for everyone. So start planning and prepping your meals in advance, and enjoy delicious and nutritious dishes throughout the week!
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