Quick and Easy Recipe
This quick and easy recipe is designed for busy schedules, combining speedy preparation with simple, nutritious ingredients to deliver a balanced and flavorful meal in under 30 minutes. Using pantry staples and fresh produce, it offers flexibility with customizable flavors and minimal cleanup, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or satisfying lunches on the go.
- Author: Barbara
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Gluten Free
Fresh Vegetables
- Bell peppers, chopped – 1 cup
- Cherry tomatoes, halved – 1 cup
- Spinach leaves – 1 cup
Lean Protein
- Chicken breast, diced – 1 lb (or tofu/chickpeas for vegetarian/vegan option)
Whole Grains
- Brown rice, cooked – 1 cup (or quinoa or whole wheat pasta)
Oils & Seasonings
- Olive oil – 2 tbsp
- Garlic, minced – 2 cloves
- Salt – 1 tsp (adjust to taste)
- Black pepper – 1/2 tsp (adjust to taste)
- Herbs (such as basil, cilantro, or thyme) – 1 tbsp fresh or 1 tsp dried
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients, rinse fresh produce, and chop vegetables uniformly for even cooking. Measure spices ahead to speed up the process.
- Cook the Protein: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add your choice of protein and cook until golden and cooked through, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, add vegetables and sauté until tender-crisp to keep their texture and nutrients.
- Combine Ingredients: Mix the cooked protein back in with the vegetables and add your cooked grain of choice. Stir and cook together for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
- Season and Serve: Adjust seasoning with additional herbs or spices if needed. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
Notes
- Prep vegetables a day ahead to save active cooking time.
- Use fresh herbs and ripe produce to enhance flavors.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary for proper browning.
- Balance carbs, protein, and fats to stay full longer.
- Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or cumin to vary the taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
Keywords: quick recipe, easy meal, healthy dinner, fast cooking, one-pan meal, balanced meal, gluten free, vegetarian option