Seasoned with Love: My "Meals on Me" Journey Through Life

 

Cooking is not just about preparing food; it’s about creating experiences and memories that last a lifetime. Each recipe I share here has been seasoned with love, reflecting my journey through various stages of life. Whether you need a low carb meal plan, a high protein lunch, a balanced diet meal plan, or a comprehensive “Meal’s on Me” plan, these recipes are crafted to nourish both body and soul.

Low Carb Meal Plan

Recipe 1: Cauliflower Fried Rice

Ingredients:

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, riced
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
2. Add peas and carrots, cooking until tender.
3. Push vegetables to one side of the skillet and pour beaten eggs on the other side. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked.
4. Stir in riced cauliflower and soy sauce, mixing everything together. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the cauliflower is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper, then garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Your Note: This cauliflower fried rice is a delicious and low-carb alternative to traditional fried rice, perfect for a quick and healthy meal.

High Protein Lunch

Recipe 2: Grilled Chicken and Quinoa Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup quinoa, cooked and cooled
• 1 cup baby spinach
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Grill over medium-high heat for 6–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Let rest, then slice.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Top the salad with sliced grilled chicken before serving.

Your Note: This high-protein salad is not only nutritious but also bursting with flavors, making it an ideal lunch option.

Diet Meal Plan

Recipe 3: Baked Cod with Lemon and Herbs

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place cod fillets on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and top with lemon slices, garlic, parsley, and dill. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Bake for 15–20 minutes until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Your Note: This baked cod dish is light, healthy, and full of fresh herb flavors, perfect for a balanced diet.

“Meal’s on Me” Plan

Recipe 4: Family-Style Lasagna

Ingredients:

• 12 lasagna noodles
• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat and stir in marinara sauce and minced garlic. Simmer for 10 minutes.
3. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, basil, parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce. Layer with noodles, ricotta mixture, and more meat sauce. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of noodles and remaining meat sauce. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Your Note: This family-style lasagna is perfect for gatherings, providing a hearty and comforting meal that brings everyone together.

These recipes reflect different stages and experiences of my cooking journey, each one crafted with care and love. Whether you are preparing a low-carb meal, a high-protein lunch, a diet-friendly dinner, or a family feast, “Meals on Me” ensures that your culinary adventures are both delicious and meaningful.

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