During a hectic work week, it can be all too tempting to opt for takeout or fast food. However, this habit can quickly become both expensive and detrimental to your health. Preparing your meals at home allows you to control what goes into your food and can even turn into an enjoyable activity.
Here are five simple meals to help make your work week easier and keep you on track with your health and budget goals.
Veggie Quesadillas
When you’re short on time, this meal comes to the rescue. There’s nothing better than a cheesy quesadilla with sour cream. Sauté your favorite vegetables, such as peppers, onions, and zucchini, then layer them on a tortilla with cheese and grill until the cheese has melted. Serve with a side of salsa and avocado for extra flavor.
One-Pan Chicken and Vegetables
If you’re searching for a simple recipe that requires just one pan and effortless cleaning, one-pan chicken and veggies is the meal for you. This delicious meal requires you to cut or shred up some chicken breasts—a high-protein food great for keeping you energized—and mix them with your preferred vegetables, such as carrots, broccoli, and zucchini.
Bake them for around 20 minutes and season them with your favorite spices for added flavor. This meal is ideal for meal prep, allowing you to cook several portions at once to enjoy throughout the week.
Tip
You can add cream of mushroom soup and a puff pastry on top to create a yummy pot pie!
Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad
Another simple but delicious meal that will ease your work week is the classic Caesar salad. Grill some chicken breasts and assemble your salad with romaine lettuce, homemade croutons, and a DIY Caesar dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and parmesan. It’s a light yet satisfying lunch option that you can pack for work.
Tip
Have leftover salad but don’t want to throw it away? Make it into cold pasta or a delicious chicken Caesar wrap.
Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are delicious and packed with nutrients. Roast your sweet potatoes in the oven and then mash them up. You can then stuff them with your favorite toppings, such as black bean chili, broccoli, or roasted vegetables with goat cheese. The preparation time is minimal, and the roasting doesn’t require much attention.
Slow Cooker Chili
Prepare your chili ingredients in the morning and let them simmer in your slow cooker all day. For a quick and easy recipe, you can use canned beans and tomatoes, ground turkey, and chili powder. Pair it with cornbread or rice and enjoy the leftovers throughout the week.
As the work week progresses, remember that maintaining a healthy eating routine doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. By preparing meals at home, you can save money and nourish your body with the right nutrients. Try incorporating these simple meals into your meal plan and see how they make your work week easier.
Dianne Pajo is a writer based out of the Chicagoland area with a passion for music, combat sports, and animals. She enjoys competing in amateur boxing and kickboxing, but in her other leisure time, you can find her performing music around the city. She is also a dog mom of 2.
