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Pan-Fried Tofu with Sauteed Spinach and Tomato

tofu spinach

Crispy, pan-fried tofu served with sauteed balsamic spinach and tomatoes is an easy recipe, that is a light and warm dish, that can be enjoyed with rice pilaf, pasta, or all on its own.

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Round plate with pan-fried tofu topped with sauteed spinach and cherry tomatoes.

If time is not on your side, here’s a quick 15-minute vegetarian meal prep that you can make all in one pan.

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Dish

  • It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and uses whole ingredients
  • Together with the tomatoes, the sauteed spinach is one of the most nutrient-side dishes you can have
  • This dish is extremely budget-friendly because tofu can be a cheaper protein option than meat
  • This easy recipe has minimal ingredients to buy

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Simple Ingredients You’ll Need to Make this Easy Recipe of Pan-Fried Tofu with Sauteed Spinach

  • Firm Tofu: The firmer the tofu, the less water it has, therefore, it is easier to crisp up during the cooking process
  • Spinach: You can also use other greens such as baby kale, arugula, bok choy, or mustard greens
  • Cherry Tomatoes: You can use regular tomatoes or swap them out with red bell peppers
  • Balsamic Glaze: You can also swap this out with soy sauce or Worchestershire sauce to flavor the ingredients
easy recipe - pan-fried tofu topped with sauteed spinach and cherry tomatoes.

Here’s An Easy Recipe: How to Make Vegan Tofu

  1. Cut the tofu block in half and place them in between several paper towels. Press down on them to remove the excess moisture.
  2. Next, cut them into smaller pieces and add them to an oiled, heated skillet.
  3. Sear them on all sides until they are golden brown and crispy.
  4. Remove the tofu and add spinach and tomatoes.
  5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and season the vegetables. Mix it all around until the spinach softens.
  6. Serve on top of the tofu cubes.

Reference the recipe card below for detailed instructions.

Glass meal prep containers with easy recipe pan-fried tofu topped with sauteed spinach and cherry tomatoes.

Meal Prep Tips for Pan-Fried Tofu and Spinach

  • To Store: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you are prepping this meal in advance, keep the sauteed spinach and tomatoes in separate containers from the tofu to prevent the tofu from getting soggy from the spinach
  • To Serve: You can enjoy this meal with other side dishes such as quinoa, barley, or a side of squash noodles
  • To Reheat: The meal can be reheated in the microwave
Glass meal prep containers with easy recipe pan-fried tofu topped with sauteed spinach and cherry tomatoes.
tofu and spinach

Pan-Fried Tofu with Sauteed Spinach and Tomato

This pan-fried tofu with sauteed spinach is a one of the easiest and tastiest ways of eating tofu.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Course dinner, lunch, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 2

Equipment

  • knife
  • cutting board
  • saute pan
  • spatula

Ingredients
  

Tofu and Marinade

  • 12 oz tofu (firm)
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Spinach and Tomatoes

  • 6 cups baby spinach
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Cut the tofu block in half and place them in between several paper towels. Press down on the tofu to remove the excess moisture. Next, cut the tofu into one-inch cubes. In a small bowl, mix together the balsamic glaze, olive oil, and seasonings. Cover the tofu cubes completely with the marinade.
  • Add oil to a saute pan on medium-high heat and sear the tofu cubes on each side until they are golden brown (about 2 to 3 minutes on each side). After they cook, remove them from the pan and set them aside.
  • Next, add the spinach and tomatoes and stir them around until the spinach softens and tomatoes get tender. Season with garlic powder and salt.
  • In the end, drizzle the spinach with the balsamic glaze and serve it on top of the tofu cubes.

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Baked Pine Nut Crusted Tilapia with Spinach

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long will pan-fried tofu keep?

You can keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.


Is tofu good for weight loss?

Tofu can help promote weight loss because it is a low-calorie, high-protein ingredient that can help you stay full and it tends to have fewer calories than meat. Tofu is also cholesterol-free which can help reduce heart disease when swapping it out with saturated, high-fat animal proteins.


Why press the tofu before cooking?

The packaging process of tofu leaves it with a great deal of moisture. Pressing the tofu removes the water and helps it hold its shape when you cook it.

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Citrus Ginger Salmon Salad with Roasted Beets

salmon beet salad

This Citrus Ginger Salmon and Beet Salad is so refreshing, tangy, and full of healthy ingredients that will help you power through your day.

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Plate with baked salmon on top of baby spinach salad with roasted beets, mandarin oranges, and nuts.

It’s always nice to have a nice, crisp salad during the warmer weather, but having one that is also easy on the eyes makes it more enjoyable to devour!

The PrepYoSelf Newsletter

To Make this Easy Citrus Ginger Salmon, You’ll Need

  • Salmon: This fish is a great source of protein and rich in healthy fats which can help promote weight loss
  • Baby Spinach: Spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients, however, you can use your choice of salad mix
  • Mandarin Oranges: We used this as a topping for our salads and in our homemade vinaigrette
  • Pecans: Instead of croutons, we opted for nuts for the crunchy texture in the salad. Pecans are also a good source of protein and healthy fat
  • Seasonings: For the salmon, we used garlic powder, ginger powder, and salt
  • Lemon: Adding this citrus component always helps brighten up a dish
  • Dijon Mustard: This ingredient helps bind the vinaigrette together
  • Honey: This helps sweeten the vinaigrette, but you can omit this if the mandarin oranges are sweet enough

Plate with baked salmon on top of baby spinach salad with roasted beets, mandarin oranges, and nuts.

How to Prepare Citrus Ginger Salmon Salad

  1. Preheat the oven to 400F.
  2. Prep the beets thoroughly to remove all the dirt. Save the leaves because you can actually saute them just like other greens such as spinach.
  3. Place the seasoned salmon and sliced beets on a sheet pan and coat them with olive oil. Bake in the oven until fully cooked.
  4. Meanwhile, blend together the vinaigrette.
  5. Serve the cooked salmon and beets on top of spinach and sprinkle it with mandarin oranges and nuts.
  6. Drizzle with the salad dressing to the preferred amount.

Reference the recipe card below for detailed instructions.

Glass meal prep containers with baked salmon on top of baby spinach salad with roasted beets, mandarin oranges, and nuts.

Meal Prep Tips for Citrus Ginger Salmon Salad

  • Air Fryer Tip: You can also cook the salmon and beets in an Air Fryer. Cook it at 400F for 7-9 minutes
  • To Store: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Don’t add the mandarin oranges and vinaigrette to the salad mix until you are ready to eat the meal, otherwise it will get too soggy

Glass meal prep containers with baked salmon on top of baby spinach salad with roasted beets, mandarin oranges, and nuts.

Salmon Beet Salad

Citrus Ginger Salmon Salad with Roasted Beets

5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Course lunch, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 2

Equipment

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

Ingredients
  

Salmon and seasonings

  • 12 oz salmon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 2 red beets

Salad Mix

  • 4 cups baby spinach
  • 1 cup mandarin oranges (drained)
  • 1/4 cup pecans

Salad Dressing

  • 1/2 cup mandarin oranges
  • 1 lemon (juiced)
  • 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 400F. Remove the leaves from the beets and wash throughly. Peel them and slice them in half coin pieces.
  • Place the salmon and beets on a sheet pan and sprinkle with the seasonings. Coat with olive oil and bake for 12-15 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, prepare the salad dressing. Place the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
  • When the salmon is finished cooking remove it from the oven and serve it on top of the baby spinach. Top it off with the roasted beets, mandarin oranges, and nuts. Drizzle with the salad dressing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are beets?

Beets are root vegetables that is recognizable for their dark red color. From juice to hummus and even dessert, they can add color, provide great antioxidants, and have great flavor.


What do beets taste like?

They have an earthly flavor with some sweetness. They are crunchy in texture when eaten raw, however, they taste buttery and soft when cooked.


What are the best uses of beets?

You can use beets in salads, soups, and juices. They can be roasted, sauteed, or blended in smoothies.

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Chicken Pesto Wrap with Hummus and Bell Peppers

chicken pesto wrap

Light and healthy Pesto Chicken Wrap with Fresh Veggie Sticks and Creamy Hummus.

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Plate with chicken pesto served with bell peppers and hummus dip.

Why You Need to Make this Healthy Chicken Tenderloin Recipe

Chicken Marinated in basil pesto sauce makes for a great lunch or quick dinner and they are so easy to make.

  • High protein meal
  • Low Calorie
  • Budget-Friendly
  • A No-Fuss Meal Prep

The PrepYoSelf Newsletter

  • Chicken Tenderloins: You can also use chicken breasts or boneless chicken thighs.
  • Tortilla: We used whole wheat, but any kind of tortilla will work just fine.
  • Fresh Veggie Sticks: We sliced up bell peppers and cucumbers, however, you can use celery or carrots. Any kind of fresh veggies will be great for dipping into the hummus.
  • Hummus: You can use this as a spread for your wrap or a dip for your fresh veggies. You can also use yogurt as an option.
  • Pesto: Basil pesto is such a great way to marinate your protein with. You can also add some to your hummus for extra flavor

Plate with chicken pesto served with bell peppers and hummus dip.

How to Prepare Chicken Pesto

  1. Preheat an indoor grill on medium-high heat.
  2. In a mixing bowl, marinate the chicken with the basil pesto sauce and make sure it is fully coated.
  3. Next, place the chicken on the grill and sear it on each side for a few minutes until it fully cooks.
  4. While the chicken is cooking, slice up your veggie dips and scoop up your hummus.

Reference the recipe card below for detailed instructions.

Chicken grilling on an indoor grill pan.

Meal Prep Tips for A Chicken Pesto Wrap

  • Other Cook Methods: You can also cook the chicken in a small toaster oven or cook it at 400F for 20-25minutes or in the Air Fryer at 360F for 20-22 minutes. Make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165F
  • Storage: This meal can be stored in a meal in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The chicken can also be frozen in freezer wrap in the freezer for up to 3 months for the best quality
  • To Serve: This meal can be served chilled, or you can warm up the chicken separately in the microwave until it is heated through
  • Extra Ingredients: Leftover pesto sauce can also be frozen in the freezer or you can use it as a sauce for pasta, a spread for sandwiches, or even serve a dollop on top of your breakfast eggs.

Glass meal prep containers with chicken pesto served with bell peppers and hummus dip.

pesto chicken wrap

Chicken Pesto Wrap with Hummus and Bell Peppers

Marinated chicken tenderloins in basil pesto, grilled to perfection, and served in whole wheat tortillas with sliced orange bell pepper, cucumber, and a side of hummus.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Course lunch
Cuisine American
Servings 2

Equipment

  • knife
  • cutting board
  • mixing bowl
  • indoor grill pan

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz chicken tenderloins
  • 2 tablespoons basil pesto sauce
  • 2 whole wheat tortillas
  • 1 orange bell pepper (sliced)
  • 1/4 cup cucumbers (sliced)
  • 1/2 cup hummus

Instructions
 

  • In a mixing bowl, add the chicken tenderloins with the basil pesto sauce. Mix it all together and make sure the chicken is fully coated with the sauce.
  • Heat an indoor grill pan on medium-high heat. Sear the chicken tenderloins on each side for about 4 to 5 minutes until they fully cook to an internal temperature of 165F.
  • Meanwhile, slice your veggies. Serve the chicken in the tortilla wraps and eat the fresh veggies with the hummus dip.

Notes

Note: If you don’t want to cook this recipe on the stove top, you can also cook this chicken in the oven at 400F for 20-25 minutes or in the Air Fryer at 360F for 20-22 minutes. Make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165F

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a chicken tenderloin?

The chicken tenderloin is the long innermost muscle of the chicken breast next to the breast bone. It is attached by a thin membrane and is considered the most tender part of the chicken.


Are chicken tenderloins healthy?

Chicken tenderloins are lean and are a great source of protein for a low-fat diet. You can easily prep this ingredient using several different cooking methods.


How many calories are in a single chicken tenderloin?

A 4 oz portion is about 110 calories.

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Black Bean and Corn Soft Tacos

bean and corn taco

Here’s a deliciously seasoned plant-based soft taco with lots of southwestern flavor appeal.

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Round plate with black bean and corn tacos with a side salad

If you’re trying to incorporate more plant-based items in your meal prep during the week, then you’ll love this black bean and corn soft taco.

Why You Need to Make This

  • The black beans are enhanced with crisp bell peppers, sweet corn, and bright cilantro.
  • It comes together in less than 15 minutes in the skillet or you can roast it in a sheet pan
  • It uses budget-friendly ingredients helping you save money during the week

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Ingredients You’ll Need for Vegetarian Black Bean Tacos

  • Tortillas: We used flour tortillas, however, you can also use corn tortillas if you want to keep this gluten-free. If you want to keep it low carb, use jicama sliced tortillas
  • Black Beans: Use any beans of your choice such as pinto beans
  • Bell Pepper: You can use any color. We used red bell peppers for this recipe because of the bright colors and the sweetness of the peppers
  • Red Onions: You can also use white onions or yellow onions. We just used red onions to add purple colors.
  • Seasonings: We’re seasoning this meal with chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and salt

Round plate with black bean and corn tacos with a side salad

How to Prepare These High-Protein Black Bean Soft Tacos

Sheet Pan Method:

  1. Dice up all of the vegetables. Add the black beans, corn, onions, and bell peppers into a mixing bowl. Sprinkle in the seasoning and drizzle with olive oil. Mix all the ingredients together.
  2. Place the ingredients in a sheet pan and bake in the oven for 10 minutes at 350F.

Stove Top Method:

  1. Add oil to a heated skillet and start with sauteeing the onions and bell peppers.
  2. Next, add the seasonings, black beans, and corn, and mix them together until they heat through.
  3. Serve the black bean filling inside the tortillas.

Reference the recipe card below for detailed instructions.

bean and corn taco

Meal Prep Tips for Black Bean and Corn Tacos

  • To Serve: Serve with a side salad and your choice of dressing. You can also enjoy these tacos with a side of coleslaw, jicama and mango salsa, Spanish rice, or even with chips and salsa
  • Toppings: You can also top your tacos with sliced avocados, shredded cheese, or sour cream
  • Flavor Tip: Top them off with chopped cilantro and the juice of a lime to freshen up the meal
  • To Store: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Keep the black bean filling separate from the tortillas so that they don’t get soggy
  • Leftovers: If you make a larger batch of the black bean filling use it as a dip with crispy tortilla chips or serve it as a topping for salads

Glass meal prep containers with black bean and corn tacos with a side salad.

black bean soft taco

Black Bean and Corn Soft Tacos

This vegetarian black bean soft taco recipe is super fast, fresh, and a delicious vegetarian dish you can make for yourself during the week.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Course lunch, Main Course
Cuisine American, Latin
Servings 2

Equipment

  • knife
  • cutting board
  • saute pan
  • spatula
  • sheet pan

Ingredients
  

  • 1/4 cup red onions (diced)
  • 1 red bell pepper (diced)
  • 1.5 cups black beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 cups spring mix
  • 4 flour tortillas
  • 4 tablespoons salad dressing (your choice)

Instructions
 

Sheet Pan Method:

  • Preheat the oven to 350F. Add the black beans, corn, onions, and bell peppers into a mixing bowl. Sprinkle in the seasonings and drizzle with olive oil. Mix all of the ingredients together.
  • Pour the mixture into a sheet pan and bake in the oven for 8-10 minutes.

Stove Top Method

  • Add oil to a saute pan on medium-high heat and saute the onions and bell peppers until soften (about 2 to 3 minutes).
  • Next, add the seasonings, black beans, and corn, and mix everything together for another 2 to 3 minutes.
  • Serve the black bean mixture inside the flour tortillas and enjoy with a side salad.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are bean tacos healthy?

Yes, they are high in protein and fiber which help keep you full and promote weight loss.


Are black beans good for you?

Black beans are rich in antioxidants which help promote cell health and promote heart health. They are also a good source of Iron, Folate, Vitamin A, and Calcium.


How many calories in a serving of cooked black beans

A ½ cup serving provides about 114 calories, 8 grams of protein, and 20 grams of carbs, and 7 grams of fiber.

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Oven Baked Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Salad

chicken salad

This tasty chicken lunch meal prep is baked in a sweet and savory honey mustard marinade and served on top of a fresh spring mix salad.

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

Baked honey mustard glazed chicken salad served with spring mix salad.

Why You Need to Make This

  • The recipe uses pantry-friendly ingredients to make this flavorful marinade for your chicken.
  • This is a sheet pan recipe that makes it easy to clean up.
  • It is also budget-friendly and saves you money during the week.

The PrepYoSelf Newsletter

  • Chicken: We use boneless chicken thighs, but you can easily swap them with chicken breasts or chicken tenderloins.
  • Green Onions: Herbs bring freshness to marinades. Easily swap it with whatever fresh herbs you have on hand such as basil or parsley.
  • Soy Sauce: This sauce adds savory flavors and gives the chicken a nice caramel color after cooking.
  • Dijon Mustard: This ingredient adds a sharp tangy flavor to the marinade.
  • Honey: The sweetness of honey pairs well with the savory and tangy flavors of the soy sauce and dijon mustard.
  • Oil: We used olive oil but you can also use coconut oil or sesame oil.

Baked honey mustard glazed chicken salad served with spring mix salad.

Easy Recipe Steps for Baking Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken

  1. Preheat the oven to 425F.
  2. Mix together the chicken marinade in a bowl and marinate the chicken for at least 10 minutes.
  3. Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish and bake until it fully cooks. (flip it halfway through the cooking process)
  4. After it cooks, let it rest before cutting them into bite-size pieces.
  5. Serve the baked honey dijon glazed chicken with the salad and dressing.

Reference the recipe card below for detailed instructions.

Baked honey mustard glazed chicken salad served with spring mix salad stored in a glass meal prep container.

Meal Prep Tips for Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Salad

  • Preparation tip: If you are cooking with thick chicken breasts, you can pound the meat flat with a meat mallet until it is about 1 inch thick. This process helps tenderize the meat and also speeds up the cooking process.
  • Cooking Variations: You can also bake the chicken in a small toaster oven or cook it in the Air Fryer (cook at 360F for 20 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165F). Another option is to pan-fry the chicken in a skillet or grill it on an indoor grill pan if you prefer to cook on the stovetop.
  • Storage: Store the meal in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. You can also store the chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months for the best quality.
  • To Reheat: Heat the chicken in the microwave until they warm through. However, you can eat the chicken chilled.

Baked honey mustard glazed chicken salad served with spring mix salad stored in a glass meal prep containers.

Chicken Salad

Oven Baked Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Salad

Baked honey mustard chicken glazed in a sweet, tangy, and savory marinade that is cooked until juicy and tender. Easily serve it on top of fresh spring mix.
4 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course lunch
Cuisine American
Servings 2

Equipment

  • knife
  • cutting board
  • baking dish
  • oven

Ingredients
  

Chicken and Marinade

  • 12 oz boneless chicken thighs
  • 1/4 cup green onions
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Salad Ingredients

  • 4 cups spring mix
  • 1 cup pre-cut broccoli slaw mix
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (sliced)

Salad Dressing

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

Instructions
 

  • Pre-heat the oven to 425F. In a mixing bowl, mix together the chicken marinade. Then, add the chicken and coat it with the marinade. Marinate for at least 10 minutes.
  • Then, place the chicken in a baking dish and bake in the oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, flip the chicken and cook for another 10 minutes. Use a thermometer to ensure that the chicken has cooked to an internal temperature of 165F.
  • After the chicken has cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool before slicing into bite size pieces.
  • Meanwhile, in a bowl, mix together the salad dressing ingredients until it is well blended. Assemble the chicken on top of the spring mix salad with broccoli slaw mix and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle everything with the salad dressing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can you serve with baked honey mustard chicken?

In addition to a salad, you can serve this weeknight dish with fluffy quinoa, roasted veggies, or mashed potatoes.


Can I use another protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely, this honey dijon mustard marinade will work well with pork or salmon.


Can I use yellow mustard if I don’t have dijon mustard?

Yes! You can also use spicy brown mustard if you like some heat to your marinade.

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Easy Air Fryer Chicken Kebabs Recipe

Kebabs are one of the tastiest dishes stacked with tender marinated meats and bright colored veggies. Not only do bell peppers and cherry tomatoes add great flavor to this dish, but they are also full of essential nutrients that are good for your health. Bell peppers and cherry tomatoes are great sources of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium. A diet rich in vegetables can help reduce the risk of developing heart disease and certain types of cancers. The fibers help keep your digestive tract working properly. Along with being full of nutrients, they are low-calorie and deliver a satisfying bite.

Ease of Making: Easy

What I love about kebabs is that there are so many ways to make them and so many flavors from all over the world that you can incorporate. They are easy to make and can be cooked on a grill, in the oven, or in an air fryer just like these chicken kebabs. Serve them with your choice of sides such as a salad, in a pita, on top of a bed of rice pilaf, or additional veggies. 

Meal prep tips for Air Fryer Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs

The Air Fryer is great for meal prep. It is the perfect size for roasting veggies and cooks large portions of protein. Therefore, you can batch cook multiple food items without having to pre-heat the oven and waste all that oven space. 

The air fryer essentially is like an amped-up oven. The difference is that it has a fan and it utilizes a more compact space to facilitate fast cooking. The fan circulates the air around making food items crisp which is similar to what you could get from deep frying, minus the extra added fat. With normal baking ovens, there is a lot of humidity, so it’s difficult for an outer crisp to occur. 

Sometimes using a leaner cut of meat such as chicken breasts can result in dry tough meat. Which is why marinating your meats prior to cooking is a good technique to prevent it from drying out and making it chewy. Marinades have acidic components that help tenderize meats and make them juicy. They also help reduce the time of cooking. 

This recipe’s marinade incorporates some flavor spices such as paprika, cumin, turmeric powder, and minced garlic which all offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help boost immunity.

If you’re using wooden skewers be sure to soak them in water for at least 10 minutes to prevent them from scorching.

Layer the ingredients on the skewers and place them in the air fryer basket.

Side salads and pita bread with dip make great side dishes for kebabs.

Air Fryer Chicken Kebabs

No ratings yet

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes

Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 4

Equipment

  • cutting board
  • knife
  • Air Fryer

Ingredients

  

  • 1 lb boneless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
  • 1 each red bell pepper
  • 1 each small red onion
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes

Chicken marinade

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tbsp honey note: you can use agave nectar or sugar
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp cardamom
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp pepper
  • 2 tbsp juice of a lemon

Instructions

 

  • If using wooden skewers, soak them for at least 10 minutes
  • Cut the chicken into 1.5 inch chunks. Mix together the marinade and marinate the chicken overnight or at least 30 minutes prior to cooking
  • If using the oven, preheat oven to 425F
  • Cut the bell peppers and red onion into chunks
  • Assemble the kebabs using skewers. Layer the chicken with the veggies.
  • Place in the air fryer and cook at 360F for 15-18 minutes (until internal temperature is 165F). If using the oven, cook for 20-25 minutes, until the outer edges are golden brown and chicken is cooked through an internal temperature of 165F)
  • Serve with your choice of sides and sauces. Examples: salad, pita, couscous, rice pilaf, or tortillas, etc

Video

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Easy Air Fryer Steak Kebabs Recipe

Air fryer steak kebabs are such a fun and great meal that you can enjoy with friends or family. Everybody loves eating food on a stick, especially kiddos! It’s also a great way to pack flavor and healthy ingredients together on a skewer. 

Ease of Making: Easy

Kebabs are traditionally cooked on a skewer over a fire or baked in an oven so that it can roast.  Roasting is one of the healthiest ways to prepare your meals because it results in minimal losses of vitamins and nutrients.

Advantages of roasting:

  • Good quality meat is tender when roasted
  • Vegetables maintain their heart-healthy fiber and vitamins and minerals for fighting disease
  • Food is more appealing because it has a desirable texture and color by turning crispy and golden brown
  • Unlike stovetop methods such as sauteing or stir-frying, It is a cooking method that allows you to be hands-free and requires minimal involvement in the cooking process

Using a roasting pan in an oven is usually the best way to roast food because it allows the oven heat to reach as much of the surface of food as possible and allows the air to circulate. 

However, if you don’t have a roasting pan and don’t want to wait to heat up your large oven, then an air fryer will do perfectly. It has a basket that holds food similar to a roasting rack and the fan allows the air to circulate the heat evenly around the food giving it that golden brown crisp.

Meal prep tips for Air Fryer Steak Kebabs

  • Cooking air fryer steak kebabs is not only a time saver, but cleanup is also incredibly easy, and it also tastes amazing.
  • Make sure to measure your air fryer to check that your skewers you are using actually fit inside of your air fryer. 6 to 8-inch skewers tend to fit best in most air fryers. And if you are using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 10 minutes to keep them from burning
  • When cutting veggies, make sure they are all the same size chunks the meat so that they all cook evenly. Use a variety of colorful vegetables like bell peppers and even add fruit such as pineapple
  • One of the best cuts of beef for kebabs is the Sirloin cut. It is relatively tender, lean, and fits into a balanced diet. In addition, it is budget-friendly. Other good beef choices are flat iron, strip steak, and even tenderloin.
  • Sometimes using a leaner cut of meat can result in dry tough meat. Therefore, marinating your meats prior to cooking is a good technique to prevent it from drying out and making it chewy. This marinade combines pantry friendly items such as Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, dijon mustard, and spices such as oregano and garlic powder. One of the tasty components that result from marinating meat is getting that distinct flavor from a good golden brown crust when the protein cooks. Adding a sweet component such as honey yields in that delicious crust when cooked at high heat.

Air Fryer Beef Kebabs

Kebabs are such a fun and great meal that you can enjoy with friends or family. Everybody loves eating food on a stick, especially kiddos! It’s also a great way to pack flavor and healthy ingredients together on a skewer.

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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes

Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine American

Servings 4

Equipment

  • cutting board
  • knife
  • Air Fryer

Ingredients

  

  • 1 lb lean top sirloin
  • 1 each yellow bell pepper
  • 1 each small red onion
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes

Beef marinade:

  • 2 tbsp worchestershire sauce
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar note: you can use honey, agave nectar or white sugar

Instructions

 

  • If using wooden skewers, soak them for at least 10 minutes
  • Cut the beef into 1.5 inch chunks. Mix together the marinade and marinate the beef overnight or at least 30 minutes prior to cooking
  • If using the oven, preheat oven to 425F
  • Cut the bell peppers and red onion into chunks
  • Assemble the kebabs using skewers. Layer the skewer by alternating the beef with the veggies.
  • Place in the air fryer and cook at 400F for 8-10 minutes. If using the oven, cook for 10-12 minutes, until the outer edges are brown and beef is cooked to an internal temperature of 145F
  • Serve with your choice of sides and sauces. Examples: salad, pita, couscous, rice pilaf, or tortillas, etc

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Meal Prep Salmon With Butternut Squash Noodles

This meal prep Baked Salmon with Parmesan Butternut Squash Noodles is easy and simply perfect for a light and refreshing weekday lunch. It’s a great low carb meal with minimal ingredients that you can make in less than 20 minutes.

Easy of Making: Easy

When it comes to eating healthy, it’s all about including a balance of proteins, veggies, smart carbs, and healthy fats. This meal delivers a powerhouse of nutrients that will help you meet your health goals.

Salmon is a great source of protein that will help you keep full longer. It is also rich in healthy fats such as Omega-3 Fatty acids which may promote weight loss and decrease belly fat. Salmon is also high in B Vitamins which is important in helping the food you eat into energy, creating and repairing DNA, and reducing inflammation that can lead to heart disease. It is also tasty, versatile, and widely available. 

This baked salmon is paired with a superfood medley of butternut squash spirals, cherry tomatoes, and arugula. Butternut squash is a low calorie, low carb, a sweet, and nutty ingredient that makes a great addition to many savory recipes and is packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. Antioxidants help prevent cellular damage and reduce inflammation which may reduce your risk of several chronic diseases. 

To add flavor and pack it with even more nutrients, we mixed it in with arugula that has a distinctive peppery flavor and a great source of calcium and folate. The addition of tart flavors from the cherry tomatoes pair well with the savory and nutty flavors of this recipe.

So not only is this recipe tasty, but it is also packed with nutrients to help you meet a healthy and balanced diet.

Meal Prep Tips for Baked Salmon with Parmesan Butternut Squash Noodles:

How to pick the right salmon:

There are several types of salmon, such as pink salmon, red salmon, and Atlantic salmon. Any of these types can taste delicious in the oven. 

You do however want to make sure you choose a filet with firm flesh when you are buying at the store. When you gently press the fillet with your finger, it should spring back. You also want to avoid any fish that are dark around the edges or brown/yellow discoloration. And be sure to smell the fish. It should smell like saltwater or the sea smell and not have a strong fishy smell.

Baking salmon delivers soft, juicy, and tender salmon on the inside with crispy edges. 

The key to evenly cooking the fish is to let it sit on the counter for a few minutes until it comes to room temperature, otherwise, other parts of the fish might overcook while the other parts are still raw.

How to use frozen salmon:

If you are using frozen fish, be sure to let it defrost in the refrigerator overnight and also allow it to come to room temperature before baking.

The great thing about salmon is that you don’t need a lot of seasonings to make it taste good. However, you don’t want to add salt too early, otherwise, it will draw out the moisture if left for an extended period of time. For best results, salt the salmon right before you place it in the oven to cook.

Fish cooks fairly quickly, however, cook time will vary depending on the thickness. The thickest part of the salmon should look opaque and the layers within the salmon should flake apart easily.

Baked Salmon with Parmesan Butternut Squash Noodles

This Baked Salmon with Parmesan Butternut Squash Noodles is easy and simply perfect for a light and refreshing weekday lunch. It’s a great low carb meal with minimal ingredients that you can make in less than 20 minutes.

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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes

Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian

Servings 2

Ingredients

  

Salmon

  • 12 oz salmon
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp red chili pepper flakes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Squash Noodles

  • 10 oz butternut squash noodles
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 2 cups arugula
  • 1 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

 

Pre-Cook (Mise En Place):

  • Gather your equipment: cutting board, knife, sheet pan, parchment paper, skillet, tongs
  • Pre-heat oven to 400F
  • Mince garlic, slice cherry tomatoes in half
  • Marinate the salmon with the seasonings and olive oil. Place on sheet pan lined with parchment paper

Cooking Method:

  • Place salmon in the oven and bake it for 10-15 minutes
  • Add olive oil to a skillet on medium high heat. Saute the garlic and butternut squash noodles for 3 to 5 minutes. Add seasonings and continue to stir until butternut squash is tender
  • Add fresh tomatoes and arugula
  • Top off the noodles with shredded parmesan cheese
  • Serve the salmon on top of the noodles. Eat and enjoy!

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How To Make Salmon Cakes In A Skillet

This crispy salmon cake recipe is a healthy meal prep protein option. Canned foods often get a bad rep, however canned salmon can be very nutrient-dense. One serving can provide up to 16 grams of protein, heart-healthy fats, and multiple micronutrients. 

Ease of Making: Easy

Growing up we used a lot of canned tuna, so using canned salmon in this recipe is a great switch. Eating salmon has been linked to anti-inflammatory properties, brain, heart, and bone health and due to its high protein content helps you stay feeling full longer.

And yes, canned salmon can be higher in sodium, however, pairing them with fresh veggies such as this corn and arugula salad can lighten it up and make it part of a healthy balanced meal.

Arugula has a distinctive peppery taste unlike other salad greens adding another flavor component. Adding other sweeter tasting veggies such as corn and red bell peppers can complement the flavors. Arugula is actually part of the cruciferous family such as Brussel sprouts and broccoli and is known to have high cancer-fighting agents. This high fiber salad option is low in sugar, calories, carbohydrates, and fats and has vital nutrients that help support the immune system. 

Meal Prep Tips for Pan-Fried Salmon Cakes recipe with Corn and Arugula Salad

One of my favorite things about cooking is the ability to be creative and take food and transform it by simply adding a few ingredients and changing the flavor profiles. Take this canned salmon, for example. Canned fish often has a really fishy profile, but making them into salmon cakes with other ingredients can definitely upgrade a simple can of salmon. 

First, be sure to drain the can before placing the salmon into a mixing bowl. Then you’ll want to add your choice of veggies. I like to use bright colored veggies such as red bell peppers, red onions, and green onions. 

Then, you will want to include some sort of binder such as breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, and dijon mustard to keep the patties packed together to keep it from crumbling when you pan fry them in the pan. Add your choice of seasonings and spices and mix it all together until it forms a paste-like texture.

You can use your hands to form the patties into balls and then flatten them in the pan, but a great tool to use is a small 2 oz ice cream scoop. I use this tool anytime I have to scoop and portion out for recipes. It saves time from having to roll it into a ball and it evenly portions out your serving sizes. 

Place the portioned out balls into the hot pan and use your spatula to flatten them out into patties. Have a plate lined with a paper towel to help drain the excess oil. Afterward, serve this salmon cake recipe on top of fresh greens with other veggies such as sweet corn.

Salmon Cakes With Corn and Arugula Salad

These crispy salmon patties are a healthy meal prep protein option. Canned foods often get a bad rep, however canned salmon can be very nutrient-dense. One serving can provide up to 16 grams of protein, heart-healthy fats, and multiple micronutrients.

No ratings yet

Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes

Course Appetizer, lunch, Main Course
Cuisine American

Servings 2

Equipment

  • knife
  • cutting board
  • spatula
  • saute pan

Ingredients

  

  • 12 oz canned salmon
  • 2 each large eggs
  • 1/4 cup red bell peppers (diced)
  • 1/4 cup red onions (diced)
  • 1/4 cup green onions (chopped)
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp bay seasoning
  • 1 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
  • 4 cups arugula salad
  • 4 tbsp choice of salad dressing recommend vinaigrette dressing

Instructions

 

  • Drain canned salmon and defrost the corn if frozen or drain the corn if canned
  • Place the canned salmon in a mixing bowl and crack two eggs. Mix well until eggs are incorporated
  • Next, add the peppers and onions and seasonings. Mix thoroughly
  • Then, add the mayo and dijon mustard and mix well
  • Finally, add the breadcrumbs and mix until the mixture forms a paste like texture
  • Add oil to a saute pan on medium to high heat. Using a 2 oz scoop (about 1/4 cup), scoop out even portions into the pan
  • Then, using a spatula, flatten the scooped salmon mixture into flat patties. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it is golden crispy. Flip it over to cook on the other side for about a minute until golden crispy.
  • Remove the patty from the pan and place it on a plate lined with a paper towel to drain the excess oil
  • Serve salmon cakes on top of a bed of arugula salad with corn. Add any additional fresh veggies to your preference and top it off with your choice of dressing. Eat and enjoy!

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How to Make Homemade Ramen in Under 20 Minutes

Ramen is easily one of our favorite dishes at PrepYoSelf, especially heading into fall. As the weather cools there’s nothing better than a warm bowl of homemade ramen noodle soup.

Even better, our Easy Shrimp Ramen is loaded with healthy ingredients with powerful benefits like the antioxidants in mushrooms and vitamins in bok choy. Antioxidants can help protect you from free radicals that may cause heart disease and cancer. Cruciferous vegetables like Bok Choy, have also been known to decrease your risk of heart disease. 

Our easy-to-make ramen recipe combines the ease of pre-made broth and the flavors of traditional ramen. This recipe is easy to whip together for any cold day of the week or to make ahead as a grab and go option. 

Ease of Making: Easy

How to Cook This Homemade Shrimp Ramen Recipe

When it comes to ramen, the broth is everything. You really want to focus on making the shrimp ramen broth pack the biggest flavor punch possible. You can do this by combining fresh, flavorful ingredients and letting them simmer together. For this recipe, we use a pre-made chicken or vegetable broth for the sake of time but if you want to make your own ramen broth these are the steps you would take:

How to Make Ramen Broth

Generally, there are three types of ramen broth. One made from the broth of chicken carcasses, one from pork bones (called Tonkotsu), and the last a combination from chicken and dashi stock. 

Steps:

  • Pick your stock base
  • Add in your aromatic root vegetables like ginger, garlic, and green onion
  • Simmer the stock base, root vegetables and cold water for around 3 hours
  • Add your dashi and other ingredients like miso, shoyu or shio

What To Add To Shrimp Ramen

Making your own homemade shrimp ramen recipe bowl is truly a customizable experience and can satisfy even the pickiest eaters. While we love ours with green onion, mushrooms and bok choy, you could also add these to spruce up your shrimp ramen:

  • A soft boiled egg 
  • Meats – think lean slices of pork, beef or chicken that will cook quickly but still remain tender. 
  • Vegetables – practically any vegetable can work in ramen. Try it out with broccoli, carrots, or snap peas. 
  • Spices or Hot Sauce – If you want to make your ramen spicy, try adding some sriracha or red pepper to the mix for an added kick. 

Meal Prep Tips for Shrimp Ramen

  1. Storing your ramen – store your prepped broth and noodles separately so the noodles don’t get soggy in the fridge.
  2. Freeze your broth – feel like making a ton of broth ahead? Ramen broth freezes wonderfully. We like using muffin tins to freeze individual portions we can easily grab and heat up in the microwave.
  3. Mix up your toppings – There’s nothing worse in meal prep than the same dish over and over, try new veggies, toppings, and sauce mix each time you make this to switch it up. 

Easy Shrimp Ramen

Our easy-to-make ramen recipe combines the ease of pre-made broth and the flavors of traditional ramen. This recipe is easy to whip together for any cold day of the week or to make ahead as a grab and go option.

No ratings yet

Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes

Course Main Course, Soup
Cuisine Japanese

Servings 2

Ingredients

  

  • 12 oz peeled and deveined shrimp
  • 1/4 cup green onions (diced)
  • 1/2 cup white onions (sliced)
  • 4 oz mushrooms (sliced)
  • 2 cups bok choy (chopped)
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 package ramen noodles (3 oz) (discard flavor packets)
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 /4 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

 

  • First, boil the chicken broth in the saucepot and add the soy sauce. Add the ramen noodles and boil for about 2 minutes until it is tender. Remove the ramen from the chicken broth and set it aside in bowls so that it does not continue to cook.
  • Then, add olive oil to a skillet/wok on medium high heat. Saute the green onions and white onions until they soften and turn translucent. Next, add the sliced mushrooms and saute until they soften.
  • Then, add the chopped bok choy and saute until they soften. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
  • At the end, add the shrimp and pour in the broth and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the shrimp fully cooks.
  • Then, pour the soup mixture on top of the ramen noodles. Sprinkle with sesame oil to your liking.

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