When you don’t feel like cooking

I have not felt like cooking lately. Between the August heat and traveling, the idea of cooking an elaborate meal does not seem appealing. And while most of my recipes are pretty quick and simple (links below), sometimes I want something even quicker and easier, without having to get take out all the time. 

So what do I do? I have a rotation of healthy meal ideas that I know take less than five minutes to throw together and will still keep me full and satisfied. I focus on getting enough protein first and then can add some fat and carbs. I also always try to keep a few staples on hand so I can pull something together if necessary - canned salmon, canned tuna, frozen ground beef, frozen ground chicken, nuts and seeds, eggs, and greek yogurt.

Below are some meal ideas for when you just want something healthy to eat without a lot of work. Get creative with it and make substitutions based on what you have on hand! 

  • Chopped cucumbers and tomatoes with canned salmon

  • Scrambled eggs with avocado 

  • Greek yogurt with mixed seeds and nuts and berries

  • Easy tacos - sauteed beef with (pre-made) guacamole and pico de gallo 

  • Canned tuna mixed with mayo and chopped celery and onions 

  • Protein pancakes - mix protein powder with one egg, almond milk, flax seed, and almond meal. Cook until brown 

  • English muffin with nut butter and an apple

  • Toast with avocado and smoked salmon

  • Chopped lettuce with chopped tomatoes and shredded chicken

  • Snack plate - hard boiled eggs, carrots, celery, crackers

  • Chickpeas with chopped bell peppers and cucumbers

  • Watermelon with sliced tomatoes and feta cheese

I also will turn to my favorite healthy take out places:

  • Sweetgreen - any of their salads

  • Chipotle - chicken burrito bowl 

    • Typical order: burrito bowl - no rice, black beans, fajita veggies, chicken, pico de gallo, medium salsa, guacamole, lots of lettuce 


Previous CJW recipe links:

 
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