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Quick and Easy Recipe

Quick and Easy Recipe
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A quick and easy recipe perfect for busy days, combining fresh veggies, lean protein, and quick-cooking grains with simple pantry staples to create a wholesome, flavorful meal ready in 20 minutes or less. This versatile dish can be adapted to various dietary preferences and is ideal for meal prep and leftovers.

Ingredients

Fresh Veggies

  • Bell peppers (1 cup, chopped)
  • Spinach (1 cup, fresh)
  • Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved)

Lean Protein

  • Chicken breast (1 cup, diced) or Tofu (1 cup, cubed) or canned beans (1 cup, drained and rinsed)

Basic Pantry Staples

  • Olive oil (1 tablespoon)
  • Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Pepper (to taste)

Quick-Cooking Grains

  • Couscous, quinoa, or instant rice (1 cup cooked)

Herbs and Spices

  • Fresh basil (2 tablespoons, chopped)
  • Cumin (optional, 1/2 teaspoon)
  • Chili flakes (optional, 1/4 teaspoon)
  • Lemon juice or balsamic vinegar (1 tablespoon)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Wash and chop all your vegetables and protein sources first. This ensures everything cooks evenly and keeps the process smooth.
  2. Heat Cooking Medium: Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil or your preferred cooking fat in a large pan over medium heat to start building flavor.
  3. Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped veggies along with minced garlic and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until tender but still vibrant.
  4. Cook Protein: Add chicken or tofu now and cook through, ensuring it is nicely browned for an appealing texture and taste.
  5. Add Grains or Beans: Stir in quick-cooking grains or canned beans to warm through, mixing all flavors and textures beautifully.
  6. Season and Finish: Sprinkle with fresh herbs, optional spices, and drizzle with lemon juice or balsamic vinegar for brightness before serving.

Notes

  • Prep ahead by chopping veggies in advance and storing them in containers to save time.
  • Use a hot pan to sear ingredients quickly and lock in flavor.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming.
  • Opt for fresh herbs to elevate the dish’s flavor.
  • Keep seasonings simple; salt, pepper, and a squeeze of citrus often suffice.

Nutrition

Keywords: quick recipe, easy meal, healthy, gluten free, one pan, meal prep, vegetarian option, quick cooking grains

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/quick-and-easy-recipe/