THE PULSE

Life can get pretty hectic, and finding the time and energy to cook a delicious (and healthy) meal after a long day can be challenging. But don't reach for that takeout menu just yet! We've got you covered with three fast and healthy weeknight meal ideas that will satisfy your taste buds without the hassle.

1. Build-Your-Own Burrito Bowl

You'll love the simplicity and versatility of a Build-Your-Own Burrito Bowl. This meal is a delightful medley of flavors that you can customize to your heart's content.

Ingredients:

• Base: Choose from rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option), quinoa, or your favorite grain.
• Protein: Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, ground beef or turkey, tofu, or tempeh for vegetarians and vegans.
• Toppings: Black beans, corn kernels, salsa, diced tomatoes, avocado or guacamole, shredded cheese (or a dairy-free alternative), lettuce or spinach, jalapeños, and cilantro.
• Sauce: Sour cream, Greek yogurt, hot sauce, or chipotle mayo.

Instructions:

1. Cook your base according to the package instructions.
2. Prepare your protein, seasoning it to your liking.
3. Assemble your Burrito Bowl by layering the base, protein, and toppings in your preferred order.
4. Drizzle with your choice of sauce.
5. Mix it all together and enjoy!

This quick and customizable meal is perfect for a post-workout refuel or a stress-free weeknight dinner.

2. Sheet Pan Fajitas

Sheet Pan Fajitas are a weeknight dinner game-changer. This simple recipe requires minimal prep and cleanup while delivering big on flavor. Here's what you'll need:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of chicken breast or flank steak, thinly sliced
• Bell peppers (assorted colors), thinly sliced
• Red onion, thinly sliced
• Fajita seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
• Olive oil
• Tortillas (whole wheat or corn)
• Optional toppings: Sour cream, salsa, guacamole, and shredded cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a sheet pan with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, toss the sliced chicken or steak, bell peppers, and red onion with olive oil and the fajita seasoning mix.
3. Spread the mixture evenly on the sheet pan.
4. Roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the meat is cooked through and the veggies are tender.
5. Warm the tortillas in the oven for the last 2-3 minutes.

Serve your sheet pan fajitas with optional toppings and enjoy your hassle-free meal!

3. Quick Veggie Stir-Fry

For those nights when you want something light, quick, and full of veggies, a stir-fry is the answer. Here's a simple yet flavorful Veggie Stir-Fry recipe:

Ingredients:

• Mixed vegetables: (broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, mushrooms, etc.), thinly sliced
• Protein of your choice: Tofu, chicken, shrimp, or tempeh
• Stir-fry sauce:(store-bought or homemade)
• Cooked rice or noodles

Instructions:

1. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok over high heat.
2. Add your protein and cook until it's almost done.
3. Add the sliced vegetables and stir-fry for a few minutes until they're tender-crisp.
4. Pour the stir-fry sauce over the mixture and cook for an additional minute, stirring continuously.
5. Serve your Veggie Stir-Fry over cooked rice or noodles, and dinner is served!

Whether you're refueling after a workout or simply looking for quick and tasty dinner options – these three meals are proof that you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen!