Are you looking for delicious and healthy meals that won't derail your Weight Watchers journey? Look no further! Ground beef can be a fantastic ingredient for satisfying and surprisingly healthy dinners, and this recipe will show you exactly how. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal prep time and delivering maximum flavor. Get ready to enjoy a guilt-free, flavorful meal that fits perfectly into your healthy eating plan!
Lean Ground Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This vibrant stir-fry is packed with flavor and vegetables, making it a low-point, high-satisfaction Weight Watchers meal. It's quick, easy, and customizable to your liking. Perfect for a quick dinner idea or a healthy lunch prep.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1/2 cup snow peas
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups cooked brown rice (or quinoa for a gluten-free option)
Instructions:
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Brown the beef: Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté the vegetables: Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened. Stir in the bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
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Add the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables. Stir to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Serve: Stir in the snow peas and cook for another minute. Serve the stir-fry over cooked brown rice or quinoa.
Cooking Tips for Weight Watchers Success:
- Choose lean ground beef: Opt for ground beef with at least 90% lean meat to minimize fat content.
- Load up on vegetables: Adding extra vegetables will increase the volume of your meal without adding many points, keeping you full and satisfied. Feel free to substitute your favorite vegetables.
- Control portion sizes: Even healthy meals should be eaten in moderation. Stick to your recommended serving size to stay on track with your Weight Watchers goals.
- Use low-sodium ingredients: Reduce your sodium intake by using low-sodium soy sauce and other seasonings.
- Spice it up: Don't be afraid to experiment with different spices and herbs to add flavor without adding extra calories.
Variations:
- Add protein: Include some cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Make it spicy: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha for a spicier kick.
- Change the vegetables: Use any vegetables you have on hand, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
- Make it a bowl: Serve over a bed of mixed greens for a lighter option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximately):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used. It's always recommended to use a nutrition calculator for a precise analysis based on your specific ingredients.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35 grams
- Fat: 10-15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams
- Fiber: 5-7 grams
Enjoy this delicious and healthy Weight Watchers ground beef recipe! Remember to always check your personal Weight Watchers points values based on your plan. This recipe provides a great foundation for a tasty and satisfying meal that helps you achieve your health goals. Happy cooking!