Don’t let the “nutritious” part fool you, what these meals lack in calories, carbs, or fats, they certainly make up for in flavor. This list was prepared with the busy, hardworking mom in mind. I salute you and I hope you enjoy your meal, because your family will – I guarantee!
1. Chicken Parm Stuffed Peppers
I’d say parmesan goes well with everything, don’t you agree? It’s one of the first ingredients I grab on my cheat days. So yummy!
2. One Pan Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini
The perfect recipe for when you don’t have much time to do the dishes. Another great thing about this recipe is that it’s actually done in 30 minutes. Don’t believe me? Check it out yourself over at iFoodReal!
3. Beef & Bean Sloppy Joes
Another favorite cheat meal of mine is a good ol’ sloppy joe. Soft bun, juicy, saucy meat dripping all over my hands, making a real mess. Thankfully I don’t have to wait until my next cheat day thanks to this healthier alternative.
4. BLT Chicken and Rice Skillet
Rice, chicken, bacon, spinach, tomatoes and a few other ingredients which I’m sure you have in your pantry already. You have to try this delicious dish for your next dinner. Your family is going to adore you for it!
5. Spinach Goat Cheese Mini Quiches
Filled with protein and cheesy goodness. Sarah from Oh My Veggies claims you can prepare these in advance and grab some in the morning before going to work or school. I personally claim that you can indulge in them at anytime of the day, just because they are that amazing!
6. Baked Coconut Shrimp With Cilantro-Lime Rice
I included another meal full of protein, just in case you are a serious meat lover. Katie from 24 Carrot Life has even tested it out in the freezer and guarantees that it tastes just as amazing as the first time. This is great news for all you busy ladies out there that like meal prepping or cooking in advance.
7. Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad
Despite the delicious flavors in the original Applebee salad, the calories say it all. However, Erin over at Well Plated has managed to create a much healthier and lower-calorie version of that salad and I can honestly say that I like it even more than the one at Applebee’s – especially because I feel more energized after I eat it. Nicely done, Erin!
8. Teriyaki Shrimp Stir Fry
Yeah, it’s another shrimp recipe. What can I say? I’m a huge fan of seafood. Especially shrimps. I could kill for them for sure. Anyway, the amazing thing with this stir fry is that you can use any veggies you have at home – and it’ll be ready in only 20 minutes. All you busy, working moms out there – Sara from Dinner at the Zoo has got you!
9. Mushroom Bourguignon
Ever since I watched “Julie and Julia” – you know the one where Julie (Amy Adams) cooks all of Julia’s (Meryl Streep) recipes, and constantly blogs about it – I’ve always wanted to make her famous boeuf bourguignon. But I never got a chance to actually do it. After a looong time, I came across this recipe from Mike over at The Iron You and decided I’d finally give it a shot. I was easily convinced because it’s a healthier option, and I must say I have no regrets. Hats off to you sir!
