The Dinner Trick I Wish I Knew Sooner

why make this recipe

The Dinner Trick I Wish I Knew Sooner is a simple meal that makes dinner time a breeze. It helps you get a wholesome meal on the table without stress. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you just don’t know what to cook. This recipe is flexible, allowing you to mix and match ingredients based on what you have at home.

how to make The Dinner Trick I Wish I Knew Sooner

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound of your choice of protein (chicken, beef, or tofu)
  • 2 cups of mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots)
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 teaspoon of pepper
  • 1 cup of rice or pasta (optional)
  • Your favorite sauce (like soy sauce, teriyaki, or marinara)

Directions:

  1. Start by preparing your protein. Cut it into bite-sized pieces.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  3. Add the protein to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
  4. Toss in the mixed vegetables and cook for another 5 minutes, until they are tender.
  5. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  6. If using rice or pasta, cook according to package instructions and serve it on the side or mix it with the protein and veggies.
  7. Drizzle your favorite sauce over the dish and mix well.
  8. Remove from heat and serve hot.

how to serve The Dinner Trick I Wish I Knew Sooner

You can serve this meal directly from the skillet for a casual feel. Place it on a big plate or in a bowl and let everyone help themselves. It pairs well with bread or a simple salad on the side.

how to store The Dinner Trick I Wish I Knew Sooner

Let the leftovers cool down first, then store them in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to a month. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving again.

tips to make The Dinner Trick I Wish I Knew Sooner

  • Get creative with spices! You can add your favorite herbs or seasonings to give it your own twist.
  • Use frozen vegetables to save time on chopping.
  • Make a double batch so you have leftovers for lunch the next day.

variation

Feel free to change up the protein or vegetables based on what you enjoy or have at home. Try adding beans for a vegetarian option or switch the sauce for something different to surprise your taste buds!

FAQs

Can I use different types of protein?

Yes, you can use chicken, beef, tofu, shrimp, or even beans for a vegetarian dish.

What if I don’t have mixed vegetables?

You can use any veggies you have on hand. Fresh, frozen, or even canned will work!

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep. Just store the leftovers and reheat them during the week.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s not spicy unless you choose to add spicy sauces or peppers. You control the heat!

How long does it take to cook?

The entire meal can be ready in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick dinner!

Print
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The Dinner Trick I Wish I Knew Sooner


  • Author: ikramnihad
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Flexitarian

Description

A simple, flexible meal that makes dinner time easy and stress-free, perfect for busy weeknights.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound of your choice of protein (chicken, beef, or tofu)
  • 2 cups of mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots)
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 teaspoon of pepper
  • 1 cup of rice or pasta (optional)
  • Your favorite sauce (like soy sauce, teriyaki, or marinara)

Instructions

  1. Prepare your protein by cutting it into bite-sized pieces.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  3. Add the protein to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
  4. Toss in the mixed vegetables and cook for another 5 minutes, until they are tender.
  5. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  6. If using rice or pasta, cook according to package instructions and serve it on the side or mix it with the protein and veggies.
  7. Drizzle your favorite sauce over the dish and mix well.
  8. Remove from heat and serve hot.

Notes

Feel free to change up the protein or vegetables based on what you enjoy or have at home. This recipe is also great for meal prep!

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: quick dinner, easy meal, meal prep, flexible recipe, weeknight dinner

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Patricia S. Bland

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