It's that time of year again, when summer come to a screeching halt and that commute becomes a lot more hectic. That's right: School is back in session. Whether you're sending your kiddos off to school or cracking the books yourself, I've got some easy microwave meals to help take the work out of meal prep and add some time back into your day. Many military service members have let me know in the past that they only have access to a microwave, so this goes out to them, too.
No matter where your microwave calls home, you can kiss slaving over a hot stove goodbye, and stay on top of your healthy-eating goals with these seven easy meals.
1. Microwave "Baked" Berry Oatmeal Cobbler
Instead of skipping the most important meal of the day, dig into deliciousness in a mug with this fiber-packed breakfast. Not only is this dish extremely easy to make, it's a perfect portable fit for that cup holder on the drive to work.
Protein Boost: Add 1/2 scoop of vanilla Cellucor Cor-Performance Whey and a few more tablespoons of almond milk to ensure it doesn't dry out when cooking.
2. Microwave Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are one of the most popular recipes I make, and for good reason. Not only does it provide you with a serving of protein and vegetables, it creates a portable meal in a vessel you can eat. Say goodbye to dirty dishes, and dig into a stuffed pepper.
Boost for Gainers: Add 2/3 cup cooled, cooked brown rice or quinoa to the raw meat mixture to increase the amount of complex carbohydrates.
3. Microwave White & Light Mac n' Cheese
So you didn't pass that test, things aren't going quite well with your boo thang, or you're just in need of some comfort food. Whip up this mac and cheese recipe that packs the flavor without blowing your diet!
Boost for Gainers: Add a tablespoon or two of canned pumpkin to the sauce to make the mac and cheese creamier and higher in carbohydrates. To boost protein content as well, cook two slices of natural turkey bacon from leg meat or two slices of pork bacon in the microwave. Let them cool, then crumble or chop to create bacon bits.
4. Microwave Single-Serving Walnut Brownie
Don't worry about overindulging with this perfect, single-size dessert. Enjoy a gooey brownie made just for you.
Protein Boost: Add 1/2 scoop chocolate Cellucor Cor-Performance Whey and a few more tablespoons of water to ensure the brownie doesn't dry out when cooking.
5. Microwave Turkey BLT
Who doesn't love a good BLT? This delicious sandwich will please your taste buds with a combination of turkey and bacon that's sure to fuel your gains.
Shredding Boost: Replace wheat buns with mushroom caps. Here's how to do it:
- Remove the stems from 2 large Portobello mushroom caps, and scrape out the insides using a spoon. Spray the caps with olive oil, and cook in the microwave for 30-45 seconds.
- Once finished cooking, place the caps on a paper towel and allow them to dry out for 2 minutes.
6. Microwave Fried Rice
No need to order out tonight. Turn this delivery food into a healthy meal with this microwave-friendly version of your favorite Chinese food classic. No wok required!
Protein Boost: Add canned chopped chicken or cooked chopped shrimp to the rice.
7. Microwave Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce
Make the same old chicken really sing with these skewers. They're easy to whip up and even easier to grab and eat. It's finger food with a healthy twist.
