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Tofu and Veggie Stir Fry

tofu stir fry

Crispy crunchy tofu flavored in a soy-ginger sauce and stir-fried with a bright and colorful mixture of vegetables.

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Round plate with tofu stir fry with broccoli, red bell peppers, and cashew nuts.

Tofu tends to have a bad reputation for being bland. However, with the right combination of sauce and seasonings, it can soak up all the flavor and make for a delicious meal. Add fresh and colorful veggies and you get a fast and healthy dinner

The PrepYoSelf Newsletter

Prepare This Easy Tofu Stir Fry with Simple Ingredients

  • Tofu: We used firm tofu because it has less moisture and easier to get it crispy during the cooking process
  • Aromatics: We used red onions and garlic to round out the flavors of this dish, but you can also use green onions or shallots
  • Vegetables: We used a combination of colorful vegetables such as carrots, green beans, broccoli, and red bell peppers
  • Cashew: You can also use peanuts which are found in many stir fry recipes
  • Seasonings: We seasoned this dish with a honey soy sauce, along with sesame seeds and sesame oil which are traditional in Asian-inspired dishes
Round plate with tofu stir fry with broccoli, red bell peppers, and cashew nuts.

How to Make Easy Tofu Stir Fry

  1. Press the moisture out of your tofu.
  2. Cut the tofu into cubes.
  3. Add oil to a heated wok and sear the tofu cubes on each side until golden brown.
  4. Remove the tofu, and add the vegetables.
  5. Stir until the vegetables are tender.
  6. Add back the tofu and pour in the stir-fry sauce.
  7. Top it off with cashews and sesame seeds.

Reference the recipe card below for detailed instructions.

Saute pan with tofu stir fry with broccoli, red bell peppers, and cashew nuts.

Meal Prep Tips for Tofu Stir Fry

  • Ingredients Options: To save time on prep, you can buy pre-washed and cut vegetables. There are fresh and frozen options available at the grocery store
  • Cook Methods: You can also turn this into a “sheet pan” stir fry recipe and cook it in the oven or your Air Fryer. Just coat the tofu and vegetables in oil and sprinkle with garlic powder and salt. Roast in the oven at 400F for 12 to 15 minutes or cook it in the Air Fryer at 360F for 8 to 10 minutes. In the end, drizzle it with the stir-fry sauce.
  • To Serve: You can enjoy this meal with a side of steamed rice or cauliflower rice if you want to keep it low-carb
  • To Store: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
  • To Reheat: The meal can be reheated in the microwave
Glass meal prep container with tofu stir fry with broccoli, red bell peppers, and cashew nuts.
Tofu Stir Fry

Tofu and Veggie Stir Fry

Flavorful, crispy tofu tossed with fresh and colorful vegetables are perfect for a quick and healthy vegetarian dinner.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Course dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Asian
Servings 2

Equipment

  • knife
  • cutting board
  • mixing bowl
  • spatula
  • saute pan

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz tofu (firm)
  • 1/4 cup red onions (sliced)
  • 1/4 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup green beans (washed and trimmed)
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 red bell pepper
  • 2 tablespoons cashews
  • 1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Stir Fry Sauce

  • 2 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes

Instructions
 

  • Prep the veggies: Cut the bell peppers into one inch cubes, dice the red onions, cut the green beans into one inch pieces, and make sure the florets are cut in half.
  • Make the stir fry sauce: In a mixing bowl, mix together the stir fry sauce until it is well blended.
  • Prep the tofu: Next, cut the tofu block in half and place each block in between several paper towels. Press down on the tofu to remove the excess moisture. Cut the tofu into one inch cubes.
  • Cook the tofu: Add oil to a skillet on medium high heat and sear the tofu cubes on each side until it is completely golden brown all around (about 2 to 3 minutes each side)
  • Cook the veggies: Next, remove the tofu from the skillet. Add the onions and carrots and saute until they soften. Then, add the green beans, red bell peppers, and broccoli florets. Add the stir fry sauce and mix it around for 3 to 4 minutes until the veggies are tender.
  • Combine it all together: At the end, add the tofu back into the pan and top it off with the cashews and sesame seeds.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long can you keep this in the fridge?

You can store it in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days.


What else can I serve with this tofu stir fry?

Enjoy this recipe with steamed rice, lo mein noodles, or even with quinoa.


What can I substitute cashews with?

Regular peanuts or pine nuts are great tasty options!

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Cinnamon Toast Quinoa Crunch with Strawberries

breakfast quinoa

If you enjoy oatmeal for breakfast, try this healthy breakfast alternative. It is a sweet and nutty cinnamon-toasted quinoa recipe. Feel good and start the day off with this super healthy bowl of nutrients!

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our privacy policy for details.

breakfast quinoa

Why we enjoy this sweet quinoa breakfast for meal prep

While we often enjoy quinoa as a stand-in for rice at dinner time, we’re sharing the love for this superfood and giving it a deserved spot at our table as a healthy breakfast option

  • It is super nutritious just like oatmeal. It’s high in protein and contains high fiber, it is gluten-free, and easy to digest.
  • This breakfast quinoa is a great vegetarian, gluten-free option for breakfast.
  • It’s super fluffy and you can dress it up with whatever toppings and other nutritious fruits you enjoy.

The PrepYoSelf Newsletter

What You’ll Need to Prepare Quinoa for Breakfast

  • Quinoa: Use any color you have on hand.
  • Fresh Fruit: We used strawberries, but any kind of fruit will work just fine.
  • Dried Fruit: We mixed in raisins for added texture, but you can any dried fruit or even toasted coconut.
  • Nuts: We used Pecans, but other options include chopped walnuts or almonds
  • Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, or hazelnut will work.
  • Honey: You can also use maple syrup, agave nectar, and even add a dash of vanilla.
  • Oil: We used olive oil to help toast the pecans, but you can also use coconut oil.

Bowl with quinoa and strawberries.

How to Prepare Quinoa for a Healthy Breakfast

  1. Boil water and add the quinoa. Lower the heat to low medium and cover the pot with a lid.
  2. Let the quinoa simmer and cook until it is fluffy.
  3. Meanwhile, add oil to a saute pan and toast the pecans. After the quinoa cooks, add it to the pan.
  4. Mix in the cinnamon, raisins, and honey.
  5. Top it off with fresh strawberries.

Reference the recipe card below for detailed instructions.

Bowl with quinoa and strawberries.

Meal Prep Tips for Breakfast Quinoa

  • Cooking Tip: Rinse your quinoa before cooking it because it has a coating that can make it taste bitter or soapy. If it still appears watery after 10-15 minutes, remove the lid to cook it until the water fully absorbs.
  • Storage: Store the meal in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
  • To Reheat: Heat them in the microwave until they warm through.
  • Extra Ingredients: If you have leftover quinoa, mix it in with your scrambled eggs or use it as a filling for omelettes. Add it to soups or chili, use it instead of rice for fried rice, or as a salad topper instead of croutons.

Glass meal prep containers storing quinoa and strawberries.

Breakfast Quinoa

Cinnamon Toast Quinoa Crunch with Strawberries

Tasty breakfast quinoa recipe with toasted nuts and dried fruit that taste just like cinnamon toast!
No ratings yet
Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Course Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 2

Equipment

  • boiling pot
  • saute pan
  • spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 2/3 cups dry quinoa
  • 1.25 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons raisins
  • 2 tablespoons pecans (chopped)
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon powder
  • 1 cup strawberries

Instructions
 

  • Boil the water and add the quinoa. Lower the heat to low medium and let it cook for about 15 minutes covered. Afterward, fluff it with a for,k
  • Next, add olive oil to a saute pan and toast the pecans for about a minute. Add the cooked quinoa and sprinkle with cinnamon.
  • Add the raisins and drizzle the quinoa with honey. Mix it all together.
  • Top off the quinoa with fresh strawberries.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is quinoa a grain?

Quinoa is actually a seed but it is known for its grain-like texture and can be prepared and eaten like a grain.


What does quinoa taste like?

Quinoa is mildly nutty in flavor and can be flavored for both sweet and savory dishes.


Is quinoa good for diabetics?

Quinoa can be beneficial for people with diabetes because it has fiber and protein which can both contribute to helping keep blood sugars under control. It also has a lower glycemic index than white rice making it a great substitute.

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Lentil Soft Tacos

lentil taco

Simple vegetarian lentil tacos are a great way to incorporate plant-based meals into your weekly meal prep.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our privacy policy for details.

Round plate with three lentil street tacos topped with cherry tomatoes and fresh cilantro.

If you’re eating on a budget, but still looking for tasty meals, then try incorporating some plant-based dishes such as lentils into your weekly meal prep. They are a low-cost ingredient but still packed with protein, fiber, and other nutrients.

Lentils are a delicious alternative for meat in comfort dishes like soups, chilis, and stews. But they also work well in dishes like soft tacos. In general, all you have to do is combine the lentils with your choice of liquid, bring it to a rapid boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer over medium heat for about 20 to 30 minutes. Their neutral flavor profile makes them adaptable to a range of flavors.

The PrepYoSelf Newsletter

To Make These Lentil Soft Tacos, You’ll Need

  • Dried Lentils: You can use any kind, the most common you’ll find are red or green. For this recipe, we used red lentils
  • White onions: You can also use red or yellow onions
  • Vegetable broth: We wanted to keep this vegetarian, so we opted for vegetable broth.
  • Corn tortillas: You can also serve this over steamed rice
  • Cilantro: Other herbs such as green onions or basil will also be tasty options
  • Cherry tomatoes: Feel free to use Roma tomatoes. The cherry tomatoes add nice fresh flavors to this meal
  • Seasonings & Oil: We used chili powder, cumin, garlic powder and cooked it in olive oil

Round plate with three lentil street tacos topped with cherry tomatoes and fresh cilantro.

Easy steps to Make Vegetarian Lentil Soft Tacos

  1. First, rinse your lentils and make sure to drain them.
  2. Add oil to a heated pan and start sauteing the onions until they soften.
  3. Next, add the lentils, seasonings, and broth. Bring the liquid to a boil.
  4. Once it comes to a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer.
  5. Cover the pan with a lid and cook until the lentils are tender.
  6. Uncover the pan and add the chopped cilantro and cherry tomatoes.
  7. Serve inside the corn tortillas.

Reference the recipe card below for detailed instructions.

Saute pan with cooked lentils and cilantro.

Meal Prep Tips for Vegetarian Lentil Tacos

  • To serve: Feel free to serve with avocado, salsa, or pico de gallo. Instead of corn tortillas, you can use regular flour tortillas or even serve with a side of rice or even cauliflower rice
  • To store: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Keep the cooked lentils separate from the corn tortillas until you are ready to eat them to keep the tortillas from getting soggy
  • To reheat: The lentils can be reheated in the microwave

Glass meal prep containers with three lentil street tacos topped with cherry tomatoes and fresh cilantro.

lentil tacos

Vegetarian Lentil Soft Tacos

This vegetarian lentil taco is a great alternative to meat tacos. It's a great source of protein and is also a budget-friendly meal.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Course lunch, Main Course
Cuisine American, Latin
Servings 2

Equipment

  • knife
  • cutting board
  • spatula
  • saute pan

Ingredients
  

  • 0.75 cups dried lentils (rinsed)
  • 1/4 cup white onions (diced)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 6 mini corn tortillas
  • 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (sliced)

Instructions
 

  • Add olive oil to a saute pan on medium high heat and saute the onions until they soften. Then, add the lentils and seasonings and stir it around for one minute. Pour in the broth and bring it to a boil.
  • Once it comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low-medium. Cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer until the lentils are tender (about 25 to 30 minutes).
  • After they are tender, let it cook uncovered until the lentils thicken. Add the chopped cilantro and cherry tomatoes and mix well. Fill the corn tortillas with a scoop of the cooked lentils and enjoy!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have to soak lentils before cooking?

No, they do not require to be soaked, but you do want to rinse them in cold water to remove the debris, and then drain them.


Are dried lentils good for you?

In combination with a well-balanced diet, incorporating lentils can help lower cholesterol and protect against diabetes. They are also a good source of fiber which helps with your digestive system.


Can I use canned lentils?

Yes, they can be a quick alternative, but look for those with low sodium content and rinse them before using them. But they cook so quickly, that we prefer the dried lentils and are also cheaper in cost.

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Cranberry Oatmeal Muffin Bars

cranberry oat muffins

These fruity cranberry oatmeal muffin bars are a treat that you can enjoy for breakfast, snacks, and even dessert!

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our privacy policy for details.

White plate with cranberry oatmeal muffins.

We enjoy prepping make ahead breakfasts for the week so that we always have something on hand to start off the day with fuel and energy. And actually, the cranberries, oats, and a pinch of cinnamon make this recipe enjoyable to eat any time of they day.

Why are these cranberry oat bars healthy?

  • Rolled oats are a type of whole grain that provides a good source of fiber and nutrients
  • Cranberries are a rich source of vitamin C which is good for your skin, muscles, and bones
  • These are two healthy ingredients that you should stock up on as a solo cook

The PrepYoSelf Newsletter

Simple Ingredients for Cranberry Oat Muffins

We use common ingredients that you could easily have on hand. The main ingredients are rolled oats, eggs, and some sort of liquid.

  • Rolled oats: We used rolled oats for this recipe, but you could easily use quick-cooking oats. Using the oats gives some texture versus only using flour
  • Flour: You could omit the flour, however, we like incorporating just a small amount because it helps provide the muffin-like texture
  • Eggs: Eggs play an important role in baking since they help provide structure, add moisture, and act as a glue
  • Sweetener: You can use regular sugar, honey, or maple syrup
  • Applesauce: Applesauce is a great fat replacer in many baked goods. The moisture also will keep most baked goods moist and fresh longer
  • Cranberries and orange juice: Adding fruit to your baked goods is a great way to add fiber and additional vitamins and nutrients

Mixing bowls that include the ingredients for cranberry muffins, such as, cranberries, egg, sugar, rolled oats, flour, orange, and olive oil

How to Prepare Muffin Bars for One:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400F. Grease your baking dish.
  2. In a mixing bowl, mix together your wet ingredients: egg, applesauce, orange juice, and maple syrup.
  3. Next add your dry ingredients: flour, oats, baking soda, and baking powder.
  4. Then, fold the cranberries into the batter.
  5. Finally, pour the batter into the baking dish and bake in the oven until the center is fully cooked.

Reference the recipe card below for detailed instructions.

A small baking dish with a golden brown cranberry oatmeal muffin.

Meal Prep Tips for Cranberry Oat Muffin Bars:

  • Other Fillings: Add chopped nuts, dried fruit, nut butter, or chia seeds
  • Other Prep Methods: You can also pour the batter into a small muffin pan and make separate portions
  • To Serve: Enjoy these muffin bars with yogurt. To repurpose them, you can also crumble them up and use them as a yogurt topping
  • Storage: Store them in an air-tight container or Ziploc bags in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days
  • To Reheat: Heat them in the microwave until they warm through

Baking dish with cranberry muffins surrounded by other dishes stored in glass meal prep containers.

cranberry muffin

Cranberry Oatmeal Muffin Bars

Decadent cranberry oatmeal muffin bars that are easy to make and even more enjoyable to eat!
No ratings yet
Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Course Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 2

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • baking dish
  • oven

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 orange (juiced)
  • 1/4 cup applesauce
  • 1/4 cup flour
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup fresh cranberries (chopped)
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Pre-heat the oven to 400F
  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and juice of one orange
  • Next, add the flour, oats, baking powder, and baking soda and mix well
  • Then, add the cranberries and fold them into the batter
  • Grease a baking dish with olive oil and pour in the batter
  • Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes

Notes

Substitutions: If you don’t have fresh cranberries, you can use dried cranberries

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is maple sugar healthier than sugar?

Although maple sugar is still high in sugar it has a lower glycemic index than table sugar. This could raise blood sugar slower than regular sugar.


Can I use frozen fruit?

Yes, any type of fillings will work well. If using frozen fruit, you don’t have to thaw it out before you mix it into the batter.


Can I use instant oatmeal for baking?

Yes, you can use rolled oats and instant oatmeal interchangeably in most baked oatmeal recipes.

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Easy Cauliflower Fried Rice

cauliflower rice

Easy, high protein, vegetarian cauliflower fried rice made in less than 15 minutes!

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our privacy policy for details.

Round plate with a colorful cauliflower fried rice with peas, carrots, and shredded cabbage.

If you’re la huge cauliflower fan and love seeing it incorporated in tasty ways, then, you’ll appreciate this vegetarian “fried rice” recipe. Here’s why you’ll enjoy this recipe:

  • Super quick and simple, but still healthy and delicious at the same time
  • It’s a great high-protein vegetarian recipe
  • And..it’s fried rice without the guilt!

The PrepYoSelf Newsletter

To Prepare This Cauliflower Fried Rice, You’ll Need

  • Cauliflower Rice: You can make your own cauliflower rice, but to save time you can use pre-cut packaged options that can be found in the produce aisle or in the frozen section
  • Frozen Peas: You can use canned peas or frozen peas.
  • Shredded Carrots and Red Cabbage: These two ingredients add a variety of nutrients, but they also add beautiful colors to this dish
  • Aromatics: We used red onions and garlic, but you can also add green onions or shallots for this recipe
  • Seasonings: We seasoned our fried rice with coco aminos and sesame oil, but you can use regular soy sauce. If you want to add heat, you can also add chili oil

Round plate with a colorful cauliflower fried rice with peas, carrots, and shredded cabbage.

How to Make Cauliflower Fried Rice in Less Than 15 Minutes

  1. Add oil to a heated wok and stir fry the onions and garlic.
  2. Next, add the cauliflower rice and stir until they soften. Sprinkle with the seasonings.
  3. Finally, add the peas, carrots, cabbage, sesame oil, and coco aminos.
  4. Stir everything around.

Reference the recipe card below for detailed instructions.

Round plate with a colorful cauliflower fried rice with peas, carrots, and shredded cabbage.

Meal Prep Tips for Cauliflower Fried Rice

  • Vegetables: We used carrots and red cabbage, but you can use any kind of vegetables that you have on hand. Broccoli is also a good vegetable with a high amount of protein
  • Nuts: You can also add nuts for more protein such as cashews or peanuts
  • Herbs: To add flavor, you can also garnish with chopped green onions or fresh sliced basil leaves
  • Coco aminos: You can also substitute this with regular soy sauce
  • Added Protein: You can also add scrambled eggs to this recipe for more protein (note: adding eggs will turn the recipe into a vegetarian recipe instead of a vegan recipe)

Round plate with a colorful cauliflower fried rice with peas, carrots, and shredded cabbage.

cauliflower fried rice

Cauliflower Fried Rice

No ratings yet
Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Asian
Servings 2

Equipment

  • knife
  • cutting board
  • saute pan
  • spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups cauliflower rice
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup shredded red cabbage
  • 1/2 cup red onions (diced)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/4 cup coco aminos
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Add 2 tbsp of olive oil to the saute pan on medium-high heat, then add the red onion, and garlic and saute until wilted.
  • Then add the cauliflower and saute for 5 to 7 minutes until softened. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper.
  • Finally, add the peas, shredded carrots, red cabbage, sesame oil, and coco aminos (or soy sauce). Stir all ingredients well for another 5 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are peas high in protein?

Peas are a legume so they are a good source of protein. They provide about 2 grams of protein for ½ cup of serving.


Are peas good for weight loss?

They are relatively low in calories and packed with fiber and protein which is a great option for weight-loss diets.


What are the benefits of eating peas?

They are a good source of vitamins C, E, zinc, and antioxidants that can help strengthen your immune system along with a balanced diet.

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Grilled Eggplant Steaks with Marinara Sauce

eggplant

These grilled eggplant steaks are prepared so quickly which makes them perfect for a midweek dinner for yourself.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our privacy policy for details.

Plate with stacked eggplant steaks on top of marinara sauce.

This Dish is Full of Flavor, and We Love it Because

  • It’s a light yet hearty, healthy dinner
  • It can be ready in less than 20 minutes
  • It’s low-carb, and low calorie
  • It’s gluten-free 
  • You can serve it as a main dish or as a side dish

The PrepYoSelf Newsletter

Simple Ingredients You’ll Need to Grilled Eggplant Steaks

  • Eggplant: Eggplant is low-calorie and has great vitamins and minerals. Other low-carb options include portobello mushrooms or cauliflower head sliced lengthwise to
  • Marinara Sauce: If you don’t have marinara sauce, pesto sauces such as tomato pesto or basil pesto will also be a tasty topping for this recipe
  • Basil Leaves: Herbs are a great way to add fresh flavors to dishes
  • Shredded Parmesan Cheese: You can also top it off with our choice of cheese. Great options are ricotta cheese and mozzarella cheese

Plate with stacked eggplant steaks on top of marinara sauce.

How to Prepare Grilled Eggplant Steaks

  • Preheat the indoor grill.
  • Slice the eggplant crosswise.
  • Toss the eggplant in olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  • Grill the eggplant on each side until tender.
  • Meanwhile, heat the marinara sauce in a saute pan.
  • Top each eggplant slice with marinara and shredded parmesan cheese.

Reference the recipe card below for detailed instructions.

Plate with stacked eggplant steaks on top of marinara sauce.

Meal Prep Tips for Grilled Eggplant Steaks

  • Sauce Options: Another sauce option is gremolata which is an Italian sauce made from minced garlic, parsley, and lemon zest.
  • To Serve: You can enjoy this meal with a side of pasta or on top of rice pilaf. You can also top it off with toasted pine nuts for an extra crunch and drizzle it with balsamic glaze to take away the bitterness of the eggplant
  • To Store: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
  • To Reheat: The meal can be reheated in the microwave.

Plate with stacked eggplant steaks on top of marinara sauce.

eggplant marinara

Grilled Eggplant Steaks with Marinara Sauce

Grilled Eggplant Steak is a simple, healthy meatless dinner recipe you can make in less than 20 minutes.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Course dinner, Main Course
Servings 2

Equipment

  • knife
  • cutting board
  • spatula
  • indoor grill pan
  • saute pan

Ingredients
  

  • 1 each eggplant
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 2 fresh basil leaves (chopped)
  • 1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

  • Slice the eggplant crosswise in 1/2 inch thickness. Toss it in olive oil until it is fully coated. Season with salt and pepper
  • Preheat the indoor grill pan on medium-high heat. Grill the eggplant until tender (about 3 to 4 minutes on each side).
  • Meanwhile, heat marinara sauce in a saute pan on medium heat and add the fresh basil leaves.
  • Top each eggplant slice with marinara sauce and sprinkle them with shredded parmesan cheese.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does eggplant taste like?

It’s tender, mild with a slight bitterness. It tends to absorb the flavor of what it’s cooked with.


What if I don’t like eggplant?

You can also make this recipe with portobello mushrooms or cauliflower.


Is eggplant good for losing weight?

Yes, eggplants are low in calories and high in fiber. Fiber can help promote fullness and as a result, helps reduce calorie intake.

Posted on Leave a comment

Baked Breakfast Egg Stuffed Peppers

egg stuffed bell peppers

Baked breakfast stuffed peppers are perfect for a low-carb breakfast, brunch, or even as an afternoon snack.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our privacy policy for details.

White round plate with a baked yellow bell pepper stuffed with eggs. It is topped off with red harissa sauce and green pesto and slice avocado.

We love the natural sweetness of bell peppers, and using them as a vessel to bake eggs in them is an added bonus! And to level it up, we are topping it off with bold flavors such as harissa and pistachio pesto.

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Egg Stuffed Pepper Ingredients

Savory breakfast is definitely something we look forward to in the mornings. And it’s even better when it’s nutritious and flavorful in one bite. Here are the ingredients we used for our egg-stuffed peppers:

  • Bell Peppers: You can use any color of your choice. Green bell peppers are slightly more bitter, while the yellow, orange and red bell peppers are sweeter. Red bell peppers also are more nutrient-dense.
  • Eggs: We used 2 eggs per pepper half, however, depending on the size of your peppers, you may just need 1 egg.
  • Harissa: We used harissa to add some heat and smoky flavors, but you can easily use another kind of chili sauce such as sriracha. 
  • Pistachio Pesto: We made our pistachio pesto from scratch, however, you can use any kind of store-bought pesto such as basil pesto.
  • Avocado: To add some healthy fat, we added sliced avocado on top.

White round plate with a baked yellow bell pepper stuffed with eggs. It is topped off with red harissa sauce and green pesto and slice avocado.

How to Make Breakfast Egg Stuffed Peppers

  1. Preheat the oven to 400F.
  2. Using a chef’s knife, slice the bell pepper in half. Remove the inner ribs and seeds of the peppers.
  3. Lay the peppers cut side up on the baking sheet and crack the eggs into the pepper halves.
  4. Bake in the oven until the egg whites are firmly set.
  5. Top it off with harissa sauce, pesto, and sliced avocados.

Reference the recipe card below for detailed instructions.

Meal prep container storing a baked yellow bell pepper stuffed with eggs. It is topped off with red harissa sauce and green pesto and slice avocado.

Meal Prep Tips for Sausage Egg Muffins:

  • Other Prep Methods: You can also cook this in a small toaster oven or in the Air Fryer (cook at 360F for 10-12 minutes).
  • Storage: Store them in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze them and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months for the best quality. However, we recommend you don’t slice the avocado in advance. Wait to slice the avocado when you are ready to eat the peppers to prevent them from browning too early.
  • To Reheat: Heat them in the microwave until they warm through.

Glass meal prep containers storing a baked yellow bell pepper stuffed with eggs. It is topped off with red harissa sauce and green pesto and slice avocado.

Egg Stuffed Peppers

Oven Baked Breakfast Egg Stuffed Peppers

These egg stuffed peppers are topped with a flavorful harissa sauce and pistachio pesto perfect for a low carb breakfast or snack.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 2

Equipment

  • knife
  • cutting board
  • blender
  • sheet pan
  • oven

Ingredients
  

Stuffed Pepper

  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 yellow bell pepper
  • 1 avocado
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon harissa sauce

Pistachio Pesto

  • 1/4 cup pistachios (shelled)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons green onions (chopped)
  • 2 garlic cloves (peeled)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

  • Pre-heat oven to 425F. Cut the bell pepper in half lengthwise and remove the ribs and seeds
  • Place the bell peppers on a sheet pan. Crack two eggs into each pepper half and season with salt. Bake in the oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until the egg whites have set.
  • While the peppers bake, use blender to blend together the pistachio, green onions, garlic, olive oil, and salt into a chunky paste.
  • After the peppers cook, top off each pepper with a teaspoon of harissa sauce and pistachio pesto. Feel free to add more to your liking. And don't forget to enjoy them with avocado slices!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is harissa?

Harissa is a chile sauce that is made from dried red-chiles, garlic, citrus, and warm spices such as cumin, coriander, caraway seeds, and olive oil. They are a perfect way to perk up the flavor for your eggs.


What is pesto?

Pesto is a sauce that combines crushed herbs, nuts, garlic, and olive oil. You can serve it with pasta, use it as a spread for sandwiches. The sauce can easily brighten up the flavor of a simple dish.


Are bell peppers keto friendly?

Yes, bell peppers are low in carbs and they can be a great vegetable option to add when planning ingredients for your keto meals.

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Easy Cheese Omelette

Learn how to make a perfectly cooked egg omelete with these easy tips and tricks.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our privacy policy for details.

White round plate with an omelette garnished with fresh tomatoes and green onions.

Why you’ll enjoy this omelette recipe for one:

Omelettes are one of our go-to breakfast choices at our favorite local diners, but they are also just easy to make at home. There are so many ways to fill and flavor your omelette. The great thing is that you can easily add whatever veggies and protein you have in your fridge.

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Here are the Ingredients You’ll Need:

For this recipe, we will use simple ingredients to teach you the basics of how to make an omelette for yourself.

  • Eggs: While most diners and restaurants build large-size omelettes using 3 to 5 eggs per serving, we are sticking to 2 large eggs per serving. That’s enough to fill the omelette and is a good portion size for your weekly meal prep.
  • Filling: We are using cheese, however, you can easily add other meat proteins such as breakfast sausage or turkey crumbles
  • Olive Oil: If you’re not using a non-stick pan, you’ll want to grease your pan with oil or cooking spray so that the eggs don’t stick

White round plate with an omelette garnished with fresh tomatoes and green onions.

How to Make an Omelette for One:

  1. Whisk the egg: Crack the eggs in a mixing bowl and whisk the eggs until you break up the egg yolks so that there is a more smooth mixture with the egg whites. 
  2. Add Seasonings: Since the cheese filling already contains a sufficient amount of sodium, we are seasoning the omelette with just a pinch of salt. However, you can easily add other seasonings such as garlic powder, paprika, or pepper.
  3. Heat the Skillet: Heat oil over medium heat in the non-stick skillet. You’ll want to pour just enough to cover the bottom of the skillet. (Make an additional batch as needed)
  4. Cook the eggs: Allow the eggs to set up for a minute, then take a spatula and gently push the firm portions toward the center of the skillet. Gently lift the skillet and tilt it in a circular motion to allow the runny portion of the eggs to flow into the empty edges of the pan.
  5. Add fillings: When most of the eggs are firmly set, add your fillings and use the spatula to fold the omelette in half.

Reference the recipe card below for detailed instructions.

Meal Prep Tips for Cheese Omelettes:

  • Adding Liquid: When you whisk your eggs, you can also add 1 to 2 teaspoons of milk, half and half, or heavy cream per egg. Adding the milk gives it a slightly richer taste.
  • Adding Vegetables: When adding vegetables, make sure they are chopped into small pieces. Be sure to saute them first, otherwise, they will become watery and make the center of the omelette soggy as it cooks through.
  • Adding oil: You can use olive oil or cooking spray, but if you want to enhance the flavor, frying the omelette with a small teaspoon of butter will give it a nuttier taste and a more golden brown surface that is classic for most diner-style omelettes.
  • To Serve: Enjoy these with fresh fruit. You can also add sliced avocado for healthy fat.
  • Storage: The eggs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
  • To Reheat: Heat them in the microwave until they warm through.

Glass meal prep containers storing a folded omelette with fresh tomatoes and green onions.

Omelette

Cheese Omelette

Cooking an omelette for yourself at home can be easy with these few quick steps.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 10 mins
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 2

Equipment

  • knife
  • cutting board
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • 6 inch omelette pan
  • spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (sliced)
  • 1 tablespoon green onions (chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt (or to preferred taste)

Instructions
 

  • Add olive oil to a pan on medium heat making sure it coats the bottom of the pan.
  • Whisk the eggs in a bowl. Pour the egg mixture into the heated pan. Tilt the pan around to spread it to the edge of the pan. Let the eggs heat through and firm up. Use the spatula to gently push the sides toward the middle, letting the liquid egg flow to the edge of the pan.
  • Let the eggs cook for another 2 to 3 minutes and sprinkle the top of the eggs with the shredded cheese. Gently fold the omelette in half in a moon shape and cook for another 30 seconds to let the cheese melt
  • Garnish with fresh green onions and top it off with freshly sliced cherry tomatoes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best cheese for an omelette?

We like to use shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese. If you want to make a specialty omelette, use gruyere or feta cheese.


What to serve with an omelette?

You can have it with roasted diced potatoes or bell peppers. Serve it up with a side of salsa or pico de gallo.


What can you use for omelette fillings?

We love sauteed mushrooms or spinach. Instead of bacon, we often use chopped turkey deli meat for less fat or prosciutto slices.

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Quinoa and Kale Salad

quinoa salad

This quinoa and kale salad is a powerhouse of ingredients you should add to your weekly meal prep.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our privacy policy for details.

Bowl of quinoa salad with kale and butternut squash.

The combination of all these ingredients in this salad is not only colorful and flavorful but it’s also packed with nutrition. Both quinoa and kale are nutrient-dense, and the addition of butternut squash, shredded cabbage, and dried cranberries add healthy fiber and vitamins.

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Here’s What You Need for This High-Protein Quinoa Salad

  • Quinoa: There are different types of quinoa, but we used a tri-color quinoa
  • Kale: You can also swap this out with other greens such as arugula or spinach
  • Butternut squash: Another option is acorn squash or delicata squash
  • Red cabbage: We love the purple colors of red cabbage, but you can also use regular green cabbage
  • Dried cranberries: Feel free to use whatever dried fruit you have on hand such as raisins
  • Seasonings: We seasoned this salad with a homemade lemon honey dijon vinaigrette

Bowl of quinoa salad with kale and butternut squash.

Easy Steps to Make this Nutritious Kale Salad

  1. Boil water in a pot and add the quinoa. Cover the pot with a lid and lower the heat and let it simmer until it fully cooks.
  2. Meanwhile, blend together the ingredients for the homemade salad dressing.
  3. After the quinoa cooks, place it in a bowl and add the butternut squash, kale, shredded cabbage, and dried cranberries.
  4. Pour in the dressing and mix it all together.

Reference the recipe card below for detailed instructions.

Bowl of quinoa salad with kale and butternut squash.

Meal Prep Tips for Quinoa and Kale Salad

  • Ingredient Tips: Feel free to add diced avocado for some healthy fat
  • Nuts: You can also add nuts for more protein such as walnuts, almonds, or pecans
  • To Store: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days

Bowl of quinoa salad with kale and butternut squash.

Quinoa and Kale

Quinoa and Kale Salad

Here's a tasty kale salad with quinoa tossed in a homemade vinaigrette dressing.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Course lunch, Main Course
Cuisine American, Mediterranean
Servings 2

Equipment

  • knife
  • cutting board
  • mixing bowls
  • boiling pot

Ingredients
  

Quinoa

  • 1/3 cup dried quinoa
  • 1 cup water

Salad Components

  • 1 cup butternut squash (diced)
  • 4 cups Baby kale
  • 1/4 cup shredded red cabbage
  • 2 tablespoons dried cranberries

Salad Dressing

  • 2 lemon (juiced)
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

Quinoa

  • Bring 1 cup of water to a boil in a boiling pot. Add the quinoa and lower the heat to medium. Cover the pot with a lid and cook for 15 minutes. After it cooks, fluff with a fork and let it cool.

Salad Dressing

  • In a mixing bowl, add the juice of two lemons with olive oil, dijon mustard, honey, and the seasonings. Whisk together until the dressing is well blended.

Salad Assembly

  • In a bowl, add the butternut squash, quinoa, kale, shredded red cabbage, and dried cranberries.
  • Pour over the dressing and mix all the components together.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do you serve this quinoa salad cold or hot?

You’ll want to let the quinoa cool before you mix it in with the other salad ingredients.


Is kale salad good for weight loss?

Kale is a nutrient-dense food that is a good source of fiber and protein which helps you keep full longer.


Can you eat quinoa raw?

It’s best to cook the dried quinoa prior to eating it, because it may cause digestive comfort, plus it tastes better!

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Vegetarian Red Pepper and Cheese Sandwich

roasted pepper sandwich with sliced avocado and roasted brussels sprouts

Toasted cheese sandwiches are the best, and for this recipe, we added an extra layer of flavor and nutrients with roasted bell peppers and creamy avocado slices.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our privacy policy for details.

Round plate with a grilled cheese and vegetable sandwich with roasted brussels sprouts.

Who craves comfort food for lunch? I know we do! And it can’t get any more comforting than a toasted cheese sandwich.

But this is not your average cheese sandwich. We leveled it up with roasted red peppers, and sliced avocado, and served it with crispy balsamic brussel sprout chips. And the best part is that we made it all in our Air Fryer Basket!

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Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Tasty Vegetarian Cheese Sandwich

  • Sliced Bread: We used wheat bread, but you can choose any kind of bread that you like such as sourdough, rye bread, and even gluten-free freed
  • Red Bell Peppers: We used red peppers, but you can use any kind of roasted vegetables such as sliced zucchini, sliced eggplant, or sliced portobello mushrooms. We always try to incorporate any veggies when we can
  • Sliced Cheese: We used provolone cheese, muenster cheese, gruyere cheese, and swiss cheese are tasty options
  • Sliced Avocado: Instead of using mayo spread, we opted for healthy fat and used sliced avocado. This is a great option to add the creaminess that we enjoy from using mayo
  • Brussels Sprouts: We glazed our brussels sprouts with balsamic concentrate which added flavor and helped crisp it up during the cooking process

Round plate with a grilled cheese and vegetable sandwich with roasted brussels sprouts.

Easy steps for this Roasted Red Pepper and Cheese Sandwich

When it comes to the classic cheese sandwich, we often make it on the stove top or use a panini grill, but we actually used the Air Fryer to cook the whole meal. Here’s how we did it:

  1. In a bowl, marinate the brussels sprouts and bell peppers with balsamic concentrate, garlic powder, salt, and olive oil.
  2. Next, place the vegetables in the Air Fryer basket and cook at 350F for 7 minutes.
  3. Then, remove the vegetables from the basket and place the bread slices topped with sliced cheese into the basket.
  4. Toast them until the cheese melts.
  5. Assemble the sandwich by layering the roasted red peppers, cheese, and avocado.
  6. Enjoy with a side of roasted balsamic Brussels sprouts.

Reference the recipe card below for detailed instructions.

Glass meal prep container with a grilled cheese and vegetable sandwich with roasted brussels sprouts.

Meal Prep Tips for Roasted Pepper Cheese Sandwich

  • To Serve: Serve with a side salad, soup, or regular chips instead of the brussels sprouts.
  • Prep Tip: If you are prepping this meal in advance, cook only the bell peppers and brussels sprouts in advance. Then, when you are ready to eat the meal, toast the bread and slice the avocado fresh. If you assemble the sandwich too early, the avocado will brown and the sandwich might get too soggy

Glass meal prep containers with a grilled cheese and vegetable sandwich with roasted brussels sprouts.

roasted pepper sandwich with sliced avocado and roasted brussels sprouts

Vegetarian Roasted Red Pepper, Avocado and Cheese Sandwich

Here's a veggie packed cheese sandwich that you can easily prep in your Air Fryer.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Course lunch, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 2

Equipment

  • knife
  • cutting board
  • mixing bowl
  • Air Fryer

Ingredients
  

  • 1 each red bell pepper
  • 2 cups brussels sprouts
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic concentrate
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 slices wheat bread
  • 2 slices cheese (your choice)
  • 1 avocado

Instructions
 

  • Slice the brussels sprouts into thin slices. Cut the bell pepper in half and remove the inner seeds. In a bowl, marinate the vegetables with balsamic concentrate, garlic powder, salt, and olive oil.
  • Place the brussels sprouts and bell pepper in the Air Fryer and cook at 350F for 7 minutes. After the veggies cook, remove them from the Air Fryer basket.
  • Place the bread slices in the basket and top each slice with cheese. Toast the bread at 370F for 1 minute (or until the cheese melts)
  • Then, assemble the sandwich by adding avocado slices, and the bell pepper, and serve with a side of the roasted brussels sprouts.

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Frequently Asked Questions

I don’t have an Air Fryer, can I make this in the oven?

Yes! Just roast your veggies at 400F for 10-12 minutes. You can also toast your bread with the sliced cheese in the oven for about 2 to 3 minutes until the bread gets toasted and the cheese melts.


Do avocado and cheese go together?

Cheese and avocado are one of our favorite combos. In hot dishes, you can use any kind of cheese that melts well such as mozzarella, gruyere, provolone, and even swiss cheese. For cold dishes such as salads, combine them with feta cheese.


What else can you put on a grilled cheese sandwich?

You can add caramelized onions, pesto sauce, sauteed mushrooms, spinach, or olive tapenade. All these can add great flavors to your cheese sandwich. It’s also a great way to use up what you have in the kitchen. It’s all about being creative!