My husband loves this meal for a weeknight dinner!

Key ingredients

To create this delightful weeknight meal, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients. Here’s the list:

Protein (chicken, beef, or tofu)
Vegetables (bell peppers, onions, or your favorites)
A choice of seasoning (cumin, paprika, or herbs)
Base (rice, pasta, or quinoa)
Additional enhancers (broth, garlic, and olive oil)

Feel free to swap in what you have on hand. For instance, if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, tofu is a fantastic substitute for meat, and any vegetable can be used depending on the season.

Step-by-step instructions

Prep your ingredients. Dice the vegetables and protein into bite-sized pieces.
Heat the oil. In a large skillet, warm your olive oil over medium heat.
Add protein. Once the oil is shimmering, add your chosen protein and cook until browned.
Sauté vegetables. Toss in the diced vegetables and stir until tender.
Season. Sprinkle in your desired seasonings, mixing well to incorporate flavors.
Combine with base. Add your cooked rice, pasta, or quinoa, stirring until evenly distributed.
Finish it off. Allow everything to simmer for a couple of minutes to enhance the flavors before serving.

Best ways to enjoy it

Consider fun and creative ways to plate this dish for a family dinner. You can top it with fresh herbs for a pop of color or a squeeze of lemon for acidity. To round out your meal, pair it with a refreshing green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You could even serve it in bowls topped with avocado slices for a creamy texture!

Storage and reheating tips

To keep your leftovers fresh, store the meal in airtight containers in the fridge. It’ll last for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave until steaming hot. For longer storage, consider freezing portions for up to three months. Just make sure to cool them down before putting them in the freezer.

Helpful cooking tips

For the best results, I suggest marinating your protein in your spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This adds depth to your dish. Also, consider batch cooking your base (like rice or quinoa) on the weekend to streamline the process during busy weeknights. It’s a simple trick that saves time and enhances your meal prep efficiency!

Creative twists

Don’t be afraid to play around with this recipe! You can experiment with different proteins, such as shrimp or chickpeas, to suit your taste. For a kick, add some jalapeños or hot sauce. If you’re eager to make it more seasonal, try adding autumn vegetables like squash or winter-root veggies during colder months.

FAQs

How long does it take to prepare this meal?

You can have this dish ready in under an hour, making it perfect for busy evenings.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Absolutely! Frozen vegetables can be a real time-saver. Just add them directly to the skillet without thawing for a quick meal.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Yes! It stores well and retains its flavor, making it great for meal prep. Just make sure to separate the components if you’re storing them for more than a couple of days.

This weeknight dinner is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will become a staple in your home as it has in mine! Enjoy cooking and embracing those valuable mealtime moments!