Cooking at home is a great way for you to save money and eat healthy. When you cook at home, you know all the ingredients you are putting into your meals so you can be sure you are eating foods that will boost wellness. And even elaborate meals will cost less than most you find at restaurants.
If you like the idea of home cooking but aren’t much of a chef, never fear. There are plenty of simple and healthy meals you can prepare. Here are five that are worth checking out.
#1. Middle Eastern Chicken Burgers
Chicken burgers are a great alternative to beef burgers as they are high in protein and low in fat. You can give burgers a Mediterranean spin by flavoring them with pomegranate molasses, parsley, cinnamon, coriander and red pepper. Serve on a whole wheat bun with a side of couscous or grilled vegetables to make the meal complete.
#2. Roasted Red Pepper Pasta with Grilled Chicken
Pasta makes for a filling meal that is easy to make. For a healthier alternative, try substituting regular pasta with a whole grain variety. You can add your choice of meats and veggies but grilled chicken will always be a lean option. Add marinara sauce and parmesan cheese and flavor with parsley and basil to make this dish perfection.
#3. Broccoli Salad
A salad is another healthy and easy meal you can make at home. You can combine any variety of ingredients to make the perfect summertime dinner dish. One idea for broccoli salad includes finely chopped pieces of broccoli, almonds, sunflower seeds and onion. Top with a sweet and tangy dressing for a low fat meal that is packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
#4. Stir Fry Beef
Beef is not the leanest of meats, but it is a great source of protein making it the ideal food to eat every so often. When combined with the vegetables of your choice, it makes a delicious and nutritious meal that can be prepared in just minutes. Broccoli, red pepper, carrots and onions are examples of veggies that will taste great in this dish. Season with soy sauce and garlic and add sesame seeds. Stir everything up in a wok for a few minutes and you are good to go.
#5. Tomato, Lemongrass and Rice Soup
Soup is a healthy dish that can be surprisingly easy to make. To make this tomato, lemongrass and rice soup, start by heating garlic, chili, ginger and lemongrass in vegetable oil. Next add cumin, coriander tomatoes and a tamarind puree. Add basmati rice, cook, stir and serve an you are ready for a meal that makes a delicious lunch or dinner.
#6. Healthy Breakfast Sandwich
You can cook for yourself at any time of the day and breakfast is no exception. A healthy breakfast sandwich makes a delicious morning meal that is made by cooking eggs and your choice of vegetables in a bake or scramble. Put it on slices of toasted whole wheat skinny bread or a bagel. Cheese is optional. This will give you a nutritious boost of energy that is sure to start your mornings off right.
Cooking at home is a great way to save money and make sure you are eating ingredients that are good for your body…and it doesn’t have to take a bunch of time and ingredients! Which of these will you be putting on your dining room table?
