Katherine J. Kobayashi
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If you’ve ever experienced the excellent combination of cheese and pasta, you’re aware that fast, delicious meals don’t need fancy ingredients.
If you have a hectic schedule that has you constantly on the go, wouldn’t it be great to have each meal as easy?
The secret lies in keeping the proper ingredients available. If you stock your kitchen with essential elements, quick, simple meals don’t need to be magical unicorns.
Much like a well-curated closet, the well-dressed pantry has items that blend and match perfectly for various mealtime combinations.
The aim is to get dinner served in the shortest amount of effort feasible. Materials: these 15 staples.
- Black beans
It is possible to think of black beans as the dress you wear to dinner. They can easily be slipped into. Keep it in mind for a later time.
A half-can of leftover black beans might not be awe-inspiring, but it could be the beginning of a memorable second dinner.
Mash beans, and spread them across flatbread to make a unique Southwestern pizza topped with tomatoes, cheddar melt, and cilantro. Or serve them over-baked sweet potatoes with chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Health benefits
If there were an award for the best nutritious foods, black beans would be among the top contenders. They’re loaded with fiber and protein and are a vital ingredient in helping to maintain an ideal weight. They’re also loaded with antioxidants, which can help control blood sugar levels. Source.
- Rotisserie chicken
If you want to make a simple and quick dinner, you can’t be wrong with the ready-to-eat convenience of Rotisserie chicken. Remove the meat from the bones, and you’re ready to take it to the stage.
Tips for Prep
Include a bit of chicken in one of the dishes listed below for an extra source of protein.
You can save it to refer to the future.
If you have the time, take the time to remove the chicken’s meat when you get it to your home and then store it in the refrigerator. So, meal preparation will be even more efficient.
You can also keep a sealed jar of the meats in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Health benefits
Rotisserie chickens tend to have higher sodium levels than plain breasts or thighs. However, the protein content of rotisserie chicken is identical to other chickens.
3-ounce meat is packed with 24,4 grams of protein. Source builds strong muscles and boosts the immune system.
- Frozen meatballs
When it’s time to eat, The frozen meatballs could help you save bacon or even wrap them in it!
Prep tips
These savory mealtime starters can boost the weight of Italian Subs by adding mozzarella and marinara. Are you looking to add some green? Try a few handfuls of arugula or spinach.
You can also microwave them as an easy way to make Swedish meatballs with egg noodles.
You can save it for later.
After you’ve cooked the meatballs you’ve frozen, It’s not recommended to refreeze them. Store them in the fridge for 3-4 days. Take them out later for use in spaghetti, wraps, or albondi gas.
Health benefits
- Meatballs frozen in the freezer aren’t always bursting with healthy fats or antioxidants, but they are
Make sure to read the label and be sure you understand the product you’re buying. Usually, a shorter ingredient list suggests a less processed product.
- Tuna canned in a can
Another simple protein to help is canned tuna! As opposed to fresh fish that requires cooking, canned tuna is an easy way to make a lot of dinners and lunches.
Tips for Prep
For example, enjoy Mediterranean-style pasta featuring your favorite noodles.
Add:
- Tuna encased in olive oil
- Parmesan shavings
- Fresh basil
- A squeeze of lemon juice
Or hollow out a sizeable fresh heirloom tomato, and make tuna salad.
Keep it in mind for a later time.
A small amount of tuna can be kept in your refrigerator for a day or two. Mix it with mayonnaise and putput it on top of cucumber slices to make an appetizer as a mini.
Health benefits
Besides its impressive protein contents, canned tuna stands out because of its omega-3 fatsTrusted Source. They have also been proven to bring numerous health benefits, ranging from decreased risk of heart health issuesTrusted Source to more restful sleepTrusted Source to sleep better.
- Couscous
If even pasta takes too long, switch to couscous. It’s ready to be eaten within 3 minutes in the microwave.
Prep tips
A couscous grain bowl that’s all-in-one creates a meal that’s easier to prepare and convenient.
- Mix the grains and cooked chicken (the rotisserie type, perhaps? ).
- Include fresh vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes.
- Sprinkle on a teaspoon of feta cheese.
- Serve with olive oil and boom; dinner is ready!
