The new year is often the time people make a promise to themselves to improve a part of their lives. Now that 2021 is here, you may be looking for ways to adopt healthier habits.
One of the best ways to do this is to prepare wholesome meals that are full of flavor as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Here are 10 meals you can make this year that can help you reach your health and weight loss goals.
1. Whole Wheat Pancakes
Starting your day off with a hearty breakfast is essential for your energy levels and concentration throughout the day. These tasty pancakes are made from whole wheat flour to keep your glucose levels from spiking too high. You can top them with a low sugar syrup, chopped nuts, or fresh fruit to add more flavor to your breakfast and to make the meal more filling and nutritious.
2. Cauliflower Salad with Pepperoncini and Peppers
This delicious salad is a great way for you to get your veggies in for the day. The pepperoncini and peppers give the salad a pronounced savory flavor and the cauliflower provides a satisfying crunch. This dish is easy to make so it’s great if you have to eat lunch or dinner on the go.
3. Buckwheat Crepes with Mixed Berry Yogurt
If you’re looking for an interesting breakfast or delicious dessert, these crepes will definitely hit the spot. Buckwheat is a wholesome grain that is full of fiber, and it’s ideal for gluten-free diets. The fresh berries and berry yogurt offer a satisfying sweetness to make this dish complete.
4. Hummus Linguini with Zucchini
This healthy dish is packed with nutrients so you can enjoy pasta without feeling guilty. Hummus serves as the “sauce” for this dish and provides fiber and protein. Top the pasta with feta cheese and chopped zucchini to add more color and essential vitamins to this meal.
5. Mushroom, Farro, and Ginger Soup
A hearty, vegetarian soup is a wonderful meal during the winter. This soup has a spicy kick of ginger, the filling fiber of farro, and the meaty taste of mushrooms. You can also freeze the soup so you can have it on hand as one of your go-to meat-free dishes this year.
6. Mini Frittatas with Broccoli, Cheddar, and Chipotle
If you’re looking for a tasty brunch idea, these mini frittatas, which are like crustless quiches, can make brunch more delicious while helping you stick to your weight loss goals. They are flavorful, high in protein, and keto-friendly.
7. Grilled Mahi Mahi with Avocado Peach Salsa
A dinner that is filled with protein and contains a combination of sweet and savory flavors will keep you full and provide excellent nutrition. Mahi Mahi is high in omega-3 fatty acids and the salsa that tops the fish is fruity and creamy due to the mildly flavored avocado and the sweet taste of peaches.
8. Chicken Kimchi Stir Fry
If you’re trying to cut down on takeout, this stir fry recipe can help you stick to your goals. Kimchi adds a spicy kick to the chicken, as well as helpful probiotics that aids in digestion. This lunch or dinner is high in protein and has a serving of vegetables to make the meal complete. You can also replace the white rice with brown rice for a meal that is lower in calories.
9. Chicken Caprese Packets
This delicious dinner is a great way to satisfy your craving for an Italian meal. You can bake the entire dish in a foil packet, which makes the meal ideal for indoor and outdoor cooking. The chicken and mozzarella complement the chicken well, and the slightly spicy basil adds the perfect finishing touch.
10. Vegetarian Cauliflower Rice Skillet
If you’re trying to reduce your carb intake in the new year, this delicious cauliflower dish is one to try. This one-pot meal is easy to prepare and only takes a few minutes. Flavor the cauliflower “rice” with onion and garlic and add veggies like zucchini and chickpeas for added protein and antioxidant vitamins.
You can customize these recipes to include your family’s favorite flavors, which can make it easier to stick to a healthy diet. Some of these dishes can also be prepared ahead of time for days when you may not have time to cook. Happy New Year!
