Lately I've been getting a few emails and requests asking for low calorie meals that are really easy/quick to prepare. I'm not a hugely devoted fan of convenience foods, but sometimes that's just what happens. Last night I wasn't in the mood to spend a lot of time on dinner, but I needed something quick, healthy and low in calories.
And this is what I made:
I split each bag with Josh making it 380 calories total each (including the soy/teriyaki sauce I put on my broccoli.) The shrimp was really good, but a little pricey at a little over $6 a bag. I think the rice was $1.94 and the same with the broccoli. The shrimp had 110 calories per serving (9 shrimp) and 18 grams of protein. The broccoli was bright green and tasted very fresh, not wilted or overcooked.
Buying these ingredients separately, I imagine, would have been cheaper especially where the rice is concerned, but again $5 per person is better than a restaurant meal and I know exactly how many calories I consumed. You could also add a salad to this, but regardless it was pretty filling. I tend to get excited about lower calorie/filling meals.
Anyhow, I'm going to work on some quick and easy meal ideas. My mom mentioned that she doesn't like to cook on days when she works and has class, which I totally understand, so for someone like her this meal would be perfect. Ready in less than 14 minutes, and the only dish I used was a baking sheet for the shrimp.
Tilapia is a great, speedily prepared (and low in calories!) food. Just three minutes in a pan over medium heat on each side, even if frozen! Lately I’ve been making a tilapia filet with a box of Cascadian Farms Steam Fresh veggies that you steam in the microwave for 3-4 minutes (some include beans or potatoes for a portion of healthy carbs), and dinner is ready in 6 minutes!
Great ideas! I always get nervous about microwaving vegetables in those bags, but I’m sure that’s just me being paranoid; besides, they are really convenient to have around. And like you said, the Steamfresh ones actually taste really good as far as freshness goes.
When I’m working those steam bags are the best. Just a couple minutes – put a salmon in the oven and poof dinner is done. I don’t like the brussels sprout – they get to mushy.
Yummmm this is going on my grocery list!
This sounds wonderful. I never thought to make something like this. It will definately be on my grocery list for next week. I think I even have a coupon for the shrimp. Thanks for sharing!
Looks yummy! I like to cook ALOT on the days I have time or when hubby is around to keep an eye on the kids, then we have leftovers that I can change up a little on the busy days. I love to make healthy pizza with whole wheat crust, chicken, loaded with veggies on the weekend. Then I slice and bag it for quick snack/lunch ideas we can grab
during a busy week.
I do simular things for dinner. I do buy fresh veggies and use the new steam zip lock bags, and they work great for steaming meats too. I also bought a rocket grill, at Wal-mart, but you should be able to get one at many places. It uses bags and it grills things like fish or chicken. I’m sure you can do lots of other things too, but my meals usually only take about 10 minutes to prepare and be sitting on the table. I just wanted to throw that in there, most of us can always use a tip for quick low calorie meals.
I agree with you on staying away from the processed convenience foods but I’d rather make a meal like you’ve made than hit a drive thru or order chinese any day! Great ideas.
They are just so convenient some times, especially after coming in from work on a Friday. I know there is no good in them though.
Good Idea I never knew about the grilled shrimp i always thought to make everything fresh and always had a hard time sticking to eating healthy on hectic days
I love your website. I was searching a weight loss blog to read and be inspired. I believe in eating healthy for many reasons. I love to cook so I thought I would send you some of my ideas for recipes. I am 42 yrs old and I just found out that I have high blood pressure and high cholestrol. I am approx 30 lbs overweight. I do not believe in diets, pills, or any fads to lose weight. I have decided that I am going to make life style changes to not only lose weight but to become a healthier person overall. I think you are doing a great job. Keep up the good work.
Sincerely,
Renee
Wow.. interesting product!
enjoyed reading your blog.. Wishing you all the best… Don’t give up