Healthy eating can be difficult but doesn’t have to be. Even on the most hectic days delicious and easy to prepare dinner ideas can be simple and nutritious. The following are five straightforward dinner ideas that fit into a regular lifestyle, needing anything from quick to make, a limited amount of ingredients, and with maximum nutritional value.
1. One-Pot Pasta with Vegetables
For a reason, this is a classic Italian dish. It takes no time, it’s effortless, and it provides a great load of nutrients! Sauté garlic and onions in olive oil, add some vegetables (bell peppers, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes) and your favorite pasta, broth and sauce. Simmer until the pasta is al dente and season with herbs and serve. Not only is this meal satisfying but it also consists of high carbohydrates, fiber and vitamins.
2. Grilled Chicken and Roasted Vegetables
Grilling chicken breasts is simple and doesn’t take much preparation. Season the chicken with salt, pepper and your favorite spices and grill until cooked through. As the salmon cooks, throw your favorite vegetables (broccoli, carrots, sweet potatoes) with olive oil, salt and pepper on a baking sheet and roast in the oven until tender. The high protein and fiber content of this meal makes it an excellent healthy dinner.
3. Lentil Soup with Whole Grain Bread
Lentils are a powerhouse when it comes to nutrition, rich in the protein and fiber good for your body. Just sauté onions, garlic and carrots in olive oil, add lentils, broth and diced tomatoes. Add herbs and let it simmer till the lentils are tender. They can be served with a side of whole grain bread for a good and healthy meal. This makes for a great chilly evening meal you can make in bulk for future meals.
4. Stir-Fried Noodles with Vegetables and Tofu
The great thing about stirfry is that it is versatile and it goes easy. Cook your favorite noodles as per the package instructions and set aside. Stir fry diced tofu and lots of vegetables (bell peppers, mushrooms and snow peas) with a little oil in a wok or large skillet. Combine the cooked noodles with soy sauce or your favorite stir fry sauce. This is an excellent meal to have on a busy night, as it is packed with protein, vitamins and minerals.
5. Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Beyond being healthy, filled with the right ingredients, tacos are also endlessly customizable. Combine diced avocado with red onion, lime juice and cilantro and use in tacos with lean ground beef, chicken or tofu, which is grilled or pan fried. Extra fiber and nutrients can be added with some black beans, lettuce, and tomatoes. Not only is this meal delicious but it is also filled with healthy fats, protein, and fiber.
The following simple dinner ideas can be incorporated into your schedule, making it easy to eat healthier without being professional chef or spending too long in the kitchen. ‘Each meal is based around thinking of fresh ingredients, and trying to use as little processed foods as possible, while still getting the nutritional value out of it that you need.’ These recipes can be adopted to have healthy, satisfying dinners even on the busiest of days and ensure that you and your family stay nourished and energized for the whole week.
