Are you tired of endless takeout menus and complicated recipes? Craving a delicious, healthy, and easy meal that doesn't take hours to prepare? Then look no further! This simple "Meat and 3 Veg" recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking, delivering a satisfying and flavorful dinner without sacrificing your precious time. This recipe is easily adaptable, making it a versatile addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or pork tenderloin, beef steak – your choice!)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian adaptation)
Instructions:
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Prep the veggies: Begin by washing and chopping all your vegetables. Having everything prepped before you start cooking makes the process much smoother and quicker.
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Brown the meat: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your chosen protein (chicken, pork, or beef) and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meat from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté the onions and carrots: Add the chopped onions and carrots to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until softened. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
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Add broccoli and seasonings: Add the broccoli florets, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine everything.
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Simmer and combine: Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
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Return the meat: Add the cooked meat back to the skillet and stir gently to combine everything. Let it heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the meat, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. This will ensure that the meat browns properly and doesn't steam. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust cooking time: The cooking time for the vegetables may vary depending on their size and how tender you prefer them.
- Season to taste: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. You can add garlic powder, paprika, or other herbs and spices to enhance the flavor.
Delicious Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to substitute other vegetables like green beans, peas, or potatoes.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier dish.
- Serve with rice or potatoes: This meal pairs perfectly with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted potatoes.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 350-450
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-30g
This Meat and 3 Veg recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals that are quick, easy, and delicious. It's a perfect choice for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying and flavorful dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy this simple yet incredibly versatile recipe, and remember to experiment with different vegetables and seasonings to create your own unique variations. This recipe provides excellent food recipes for the whole family, showcasing easy recipes with a focus on healthy eating. It's a go-to addition to your best recipes collection, offering delicious dishes without any fuss.