Meal Ideas Archives - Love Grows Wild https://lovegrowswild.com/tag/meal-ideas/ Tue, 29 Aug 2023 15:53:06 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.3.2 https://lovegrowswild.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/cropped-SECONDARY-32x32.jpg Meal Ideas Archives - Love Grows Wild https://lovegrowswild.com/tag/meal-ideas/ 32 32 Healthy Sausage and Egg Breakfast Burritos https://lovegrowswild.com/2023/08/healthy-sausage-and-egg-breakfast-burritos/ https://lovegrowswild.com/2023/08/healthy-sausage-and-egg-breakfast-burritos/#respond Tue, 29 Aug 2023 15:53:06 +0000 https://lovegrowswild.com/?p=16841 Now that school is back in session and I have two hungry teenage boy football players to feed, I’ve been making a lot of quick, ready to reheat and eat type of meals to accomodate our busy schedule. One thing that has become a staple in our house over the last few months is breakfast…

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Now that school is back in session and I have two hungry teenage boy football players to feed, I’ve been making a lot of quick, ready to reheat and eat type of meals to accomodate our busy schedule. One thing that has become a staple in our house over the last few months is breakfast burritos, and we love this healthy, simple sausage and egg version. 

Healthy, easy sausage egg breakfast burritos

Breakfast burritos are so easy to make and endlessly customizable. You could use a different meat like ham, chorizo or bacon. You could add a bunch of veggies like bell pepper, mushrooms, tomato, or spinach. Whatever your taste buds desire, you can put in these breakfast wraps.

If you are watching your carbs, you could use low-carb tortillas like I do, or if you’re watching your fat intake, use turkey instead of pork sausage and look for a reduced fat cheese. 

Healthy, easy sausage egg breakfast burritos

TO STORE:

Wrap each individual burrito in foil and refrigerate until ready to use. 

TO REHEAT:

You can reheat the burritos in the oven at 350ºF or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes (remove the foil first). But my favorite method is reheating in the air fryer, which is quick and crisps up the tortilla so it isn’t soggy after sitting in the fridge!

TOPPINGS:

The burritos are delicious as is, but if you want to add some extra flavor or freshness, here are a few ideas:

  • avocado
  • hot sauce
  • salsa
  • cilantro

Healthy, easy sausage egg breakfast burritos

Healthy Sausage and Egg Breakfast Burritos
 
Recipe type: Breakfast
Serves: 8
INGREDIENTS
  • 1 lb. lean ground turkey sausage
  • 6 large eggs
  • 16 oz. egg whites
  • 1 ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • 8 flour tortillas – I use low carb tortillas
  • 4 laughing cow light cheese wedges
INSTRUCTIONS
  1. Add the turkey sausage to a large skillet over medium heat, and cook, breaking the sausage into crumbles as you go, until browned. Remove the sausage from the pan, drain fat if needed, and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the whole eggs, egg whites, garlic powder, Italian season, salt and pepper and whisk until well combined. Place the same pan back over medium-low heat and cook the eggs, stirring constantly, until cooked through and scrambled.
  3. Spread half a cheese wedge on one side of each tortilla, and divide the sausage and eggs evenly between all 8 tortillas. Roll each tortilla into a burrito, then wrap each burrito in foil. Store the breakfast burritos in the refrigerator up to 5-7 days. To reheat, unwrap the burrito and place in the microwave or air fryer until warmed through.
NOTES
For higher calories/macros: use all whole eggs instead of egg whites, regular tortillas, cheddar cheese, and pork sausage

For lower calories/macros: use a combination of whole eggs and egg whites or all egg whites, low-carb tortillas, reduced-fat cheese, and turkey sausage
 

Healthy, easy sausage egg breakfast burritos

More Breakfast Ideas:

 
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Mexican Rice https://lovegrowswild.com/2023/07/mexican-rice/ https://lovegrowswild.com/2023/07/mexican-rice/#respond Tue, 25 Jul 2023 19:20:14 +0000 https://lovegrowswild.com/?p=16757 Discover the secret to making the most flavorful and fluffy Mexican rice with this foolproof recipe. In just a few simple steps, you can make a mouthwatering side dish that pairs perfectly with any Mexican-inspired meal! For years while dating Oscar, I attended dozens and dozens of birthday parties, holidays, and family gatherings and ate…

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Discover the secret to making the most flavorful and fluffy Mexican rice with this foolproof recipe. In just a few simple steps, you can make a mouthwatering side dish that pairs perfectly with any Mexican-inspired meal!

Easy, flavorful Mexican rice recipe

For years while dating Oscar, I attended dozens and dozens of birthday parties, holidays, and family gatherings and ate some of the most amazing authentic Mexican food I’ve ever tasted. No matter what was on the menu, this staple rice dish was always served and often made by Oscar’s mom, Juanita. 

On numerous occasions, I tried to replicate her rice at home when I would cook for Oscar, but it never was the same. Shortly before he passed, I finally discovered the “secret” ingredient and bought a huge container that has now sat in my pantry for months unused.

In an effort to work through my grief every time I open the pantry and see that bottle, I texted his mom recently and asked for some advice on how she makes her rice that is always so fluffy and flavorful. 

While I can’t say that this recipe is exactly the way she makes it – most really good cooks rarely follow a recipe or use exact measurements. I do think this is pretty darn close, and I can’t help but imagine Oscar looking down smiling with pride. 🖤

Easy, flavorful Mexican rice recipe

And I hope every time you make this recipe, you think of Oscar and his big, beautiful Mexican family. I’m so grateful to have been “adopted” by them. 🥰

Easy, flavorful Mexican rice recipe

Top tips for the perfect fluffy (not sticky) rice: 

  • Rinse your rice in cold water before cooking to remove some of the starch. 
  • Sauté the uncooked rice in a little olive oil to lightly toast before adding the liquid. Stir frequently to make sure the rice doesn’t burn.
  • Once you add the liquid and seasonings, give it a good stir once to combine all the ingredients. Put the lid on the pot, and do not stir it again until it is finished cooking. 

Easy, flavorful Mexican rice recipe

Mexican Rice
 
Author:
Recipe type: Side Dish
Serves: 2-4
INGREDIENTS
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 ½ cups water or vegetable/chicken broth
  • 1 ½ tablespoons Caldo de Tomate (tomato bouillon with chicken flavor) – I use this brand
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
INSTRUCTIONS
  1. Rinse the rice in cold water in a fine mesh strainer and set aside.
  2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add rice and stir frequently until the rice is lightly toasted, about 5-10 minutes.
  3. Add the water or broth, tomato bouillon, garlic powder, and onion powder, and stir to combine.
  4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.

 

SHARING IS CARING! IF YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE, TAG @LIZLOVEGROWSWILD ON INSTAGRAM!

 


 

    
   

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Grilled Tajin Chicken https://lovegrowswild.com/2023/06/grilled-tajin-chicken/ https://lovegrowswild.com/2023/06/grilled-tajin-chicken/#comments Tue, 06 Jun 2023 08:00:18 +0000 https://lovegrowswild.com/?p=16570 It’s hard to justify turning on the oven in the summer when it’s already scorching hot outside, so I’m always looking for easy protein ideas that can be made on the grill. This weekend the boys and I made the most delicious citrus and spice infused chicken that was perfectly tender and only required a…

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It’s hard to justify turning on the oven in the summer when it’s already scorching hot outside, so I’m always looking for easy protein ideas that can be made on the grill. This weekend the boys and I made the most delicious citrus and spice infused chicken that was perfectly tender and only required a handful of ingredients. The chicken is divine all on its own with some rice and a vegetable (we like Mexican rice and corn), but leftovers would make the best tacos or fajitas the next day. Tons of flavor, and very little prep time!

Grilled Tajin Chicken recipeGrilled Tajin Chicken recipe

If you’ve never heard of Tajin before, don’t worry – I hadn’t either until I started dating a Mexican man whose family makes the most amazing Mexican food. Tajin is a seasoning blend of mild chili peppers, lime, and sea salt. It’s tangy and salty with just the slightest amount of heat. Other favorite Tajin uses: rimming a margarita glass or sprinkled on watermelon – it sounds weird, but trust me. Tajin is so good on fresh fruit.

Grilled Tajin Chicken recipe Grilled Tajin Chicken recipe

Fresh citrus juice in the marinade helps tenderize the chicken, and the olive oil creates the perfect golden brown char from the grill. Tajin is the secret weapon of this easy recipe, and a little cilantro is all you need for a garnish. 

Enjoy! 

Grilled Tajin Chicken
 
Author:
Recipe type: Main
Serves: 4-6
INGREDIENTS
  • ¼ cup fresh squeezed orange juice
  • ¼ cup fresh squeezed lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons Tajin seasoning
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 ½ - 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast
  • cilantro – for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS
  1. In a medium bowl, add orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, Tajin, salt, and pepper and whisk vigorously to combine. Set aside.
  2. Add the chicken to a large shallow baking dish (a gallon size zip-top bag will work too) and pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all the meat is well coated. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 6 hours.
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and place on the grill. Cook for 5-10 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees. Remove chicken from the grill and allow to rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro and lime wedges, if desired.
 

Grilled Tajin Chicken recipe

 
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Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin https://lovegrowswild.com/2023/01/balsamic-glazed-pork-tenderloin/ https://lovegrowswild.com/2023/01/balsamic-glazed-pork-tenderloin/#comments Tue, 24 Jan 2023 15:00:00 +0000 https://lovegrowswild.com/?p=16313   Easy oven roasted pork tenderloin topped with the most delicious homemade balsamic glaze. Perfect for a simple weeknight dinner, and great for meal prepping and leftovers! Years ago I started a tradition with my family to bring us all together for a meal and reconnect after a busy week. I would cook a good…

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Easy oven roasted pork tenderloin topped with the most delicious homemade balsamic glaze. Perfect for a simple weeknight dinner, and great for meal prepping and leftovers!

Easy oven roasted pork tenderloin topped with the most delicious balsamic glaze

Years ago I started a tradition with my family to bring us all together for a meal and reconnect after a busy week. I would cook a good meal – the kind you usually don’t have the time or energy to mess with on weeknights. We would always have dessert – in the summer I’d take them out for ice cream, and in the winter I’d bake something at home. We’d sit together talking about our week, our highs and lows, plans for the days ahead. Sometimes we’d watch football after the table is cleared, and other times napped on the couch with full bellies while attempting to watch a movie. 

The boys started calling our weekly tradition Sunday Supper, and it became something they looked forward to every week. Our little party of 3 has grown over the years with significant others, friends and extended family often joining us. I’m not sure I realized back then how meaningful this little dinner tradition would end up becoming as the kids grew older and our lives shifted and changed. But it’s genuinely changed our family dynamic and bond, and no matter how exhausted I am by the end of the week, I wouldn’t give up our Sunday Supper for the world. 

And now I want to invite YOU to join our Sunday Supper. I want to share this tradition and the recipes we make so you can share them with your own family. Once a week, once a month – whatever works best for you. I hope you’ll join me on this journey, and I can’t wait to hear about the special memories you begin to create. 

And now on to the recipe…

Easy oven roasted pork tenderloin topped with the most delicious balsamic glaze

I’m always looking for ways to cook a simple, delicious, lean protein that isn’t dry and flavorless. Slicing into this tenderloin is so satisfying when you see just how tender and juicy the meat is, and it really is not complicated at all. I like to make the balsamic glaze first because it does require some attention and frequent stirring to make sure it doesn’t burn or boil over. Once that’s done, you season the meat well, sear it in a hot pan for just a few minutes, and pop it in the oven. 

The glaze gets brushed onto the pork before, during, and after cooking to keep the meat moist and add a ton of flavor. After it comes out of the oven and rests a few minutes, slice it up and drizzle some extra glaze on top. Tip: It tastes amazing on top of veggies! Such a yummy dinner to feed the whole family, and it is fantastic for leftovers or meal prepping too. I hope you enjoy this recipe!

Easy oven roasted pork tenderloin topped with the most delicious balsamic glaze Easy oven roasted pork tenderloin topped with the most delicious balsamic glaze Easy oven roasted pork tenderloin topped with the most delicious balsamic glaze

Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin
 
Recipe type: Main
Serves: 4-6
INGREDIENTS
  • For the tenderloin:
  • 1-2 pork tenderloins (2-3 pounds total)
  • 1 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1½ teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • For the glaze:
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup chicken broth (or water)
  • ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoons corn starch + 2 tablespoons cold water
INSTRUCTIONS
  1. In a small saucepan combine brown sugar, chicken broth, balsamic vinegar and soy sauce. In a small bowl, combine cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and pour into the saucepan. Cook over medium heat 4-6 minutes, stirring constantly and watching closely so the mixture doesn’t burn or boil over. As soon as the glaze thickens and starts to bubble, remove from heat and set aside.
  2. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees and line a baking pan with foil lightly coated with nonstick cooking spray.
  3. Combine Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt and pepper in a small bowl and rub mixture all over the pork tenderloin. Note: If the pork is wet when you remove it from the package, dry it with a paper towel first to help the seasoning stick to the meat better.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add pork to the skillet, searing all sides for 1-2 minutes each. Transfer to the prepared baking pan and brush all sides with the balsamic glaze.
  5. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove from the oven and brush with the balsamic glaze again. Continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes (depending on the size of your tenderloin) or until a thermometer inserted into the center reads 145-150 degrees.
  6. Remove from the oven and lightly tent with foil. Allow to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve with additional glaze on top of the pork or on the side.

If you try this recipe, please share! I would love to see what you made and hear your thoughts. It helps me know what to share next! Be sure to tag me @lizlovegrowswild on your Instagram stories so I can see. xoxo Liz


 

MORE RECIPES TO TRY:

Cook perfect, delicious beer brats any time of year with this easy recipe

Perfect Beer Brats

Blogger Liz Fourez shares her One Pot Lasagna recipe, a quick and easy weeknight meal that is sure to become a dinner staple in your kitchen.

Easy One Pot Lasagna

A quick, easy, lighter version of delicious beef stroganoff from the kitchen of home blogger Liz Fourez

Quick, Easy Beef Stroganoff

Classic, easy chicken pot pie recipe from home blogger Liz Fourez

Chicken Pot Pie

 


 

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Perfect Beer Brats https://lovegrowswild.com/2022/06/perfect-beer-brats/ https://lovegrowswild.com/2022/06/perfect-beer-brats/#respond Tue, 28 Jun 2022 08:00:31 +0000 https://lovegrowswild.com/?p=15315 Summertime typically means lots of cookouts and delicious grilled food, and I have the secret to the juiciest, most tender, super flavorful beer brats you’ve ever tasted. Even if you think you’re not a huge fan of bratwurst, I encourage you to give this recipe a try!  These start in the slow cooker and finish…

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Summertime typically means lots of cookouts and delicious grilled food, and I have the secret to the juiciest, most tender, super flavorful beer brats you’ve ever tasted. Even if you think you’re not a huge fan of bratwurst, I encourage you to give this recipe a try! 

These start in the slow cooker and finish with a nice, hot sear so you get the best of both worlds: a well-cooked, juicy sausage with a crispy, caramelized crust. And if you’d rather not use beer, there’s an easy option for that too. Keep reading to get the recipe and watch me cook in the video below!

Cook perfect, delicious beer brats any time of year with this easy recipe

Bratwurst is a type of German sausage, and they are delicious cooked on the grill. The problem I’ve come across is getting the sausage fully cooked through without making it tough and chewy. This recipe does most of the cooking in the slow cooker, keeping the meat nice and juicy. Then right before serving, you can throw them on a hot grill or even under the broiler to crisp them up and get that beautiful char on the outside. 
 
The brats have a great depth of flavor cooking in the beer, but if you’d rather eliminate beer as an ingredient, you can easily substitute chicken broth or vegetable broth! The onions become soft and soak up all that flavor in the slow cooker, making them a great topping for the sausages. You could also do a squirt of mustard or eat them plain if you prefer!
 
Note: You could also sear the brats first before putting them in the slow cooker to save time and mess when you’re ready to eat. I don’t prefer this method typically, but it’s a big help if you’re entertaining and want to eliminate a step once guests arrive!
 

Cook perfect, delicious beer brats any time of year with this easy recipe Cook perfect, delicious beer brats any time of year with this easy recipe Cook perfect, delicious beer brats any time of year with this easy recipe

Cook with me:

 

Perfect Beer Brats
 
Author:
Recipe type: Main
Serves: 5
INGREDIENTS
  • 19 ounces bratwurst sausage (they typically come in a package of 5)
  • 12 ounce bottle of beer (or substitute with chicken/vegetable broth)
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 3 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • package of sausage/brat rolls
INSTRUCTIONS
  1. Place onions and garlic in the bottom of slow cooker. Add the brats on top and along with the butter, salt, and pepper. Pour beer (or broth) on top and cook on low for 6 hours.
  2. Sear the brats until the outside is as browned and crispy as you prefer using: a grill, a hot pan on the stove, or under the broiler.
  3. Serve on buns with mustard and the cooked onions (optional).
 

Cook perfect, delicious beer brats any time of year with this easy recipe

I hope you enjoy the recipe! Let me know if you try it!


 

    
   

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