Weeknight Rescue//Week 39//September 2021

bowl of beef and butternut squash chili topped with avocado and cilantro with some tortilla chips

This is a something-for-everyone kind of week. We’ve got plenty here for vegetarians, but also a DELICIOUS Instant Pot chili enriched with ground beef and my new favorite everyday energy balls.

No-Noodle Baked Tofu Parmesan

Oven Baked Tofu Parmesan with a spatula in a baking dish

Here’s a good one for meatless Monday. The tofu is breaded and baked until crispy and then layered with sauce and cheese. Add steamed or roasted broccoli and dinner is done. Leftovers are tasty a day or two later.

Instant Pot Beef and Butternut Squash Chili

Instant Pot Beef & Butternut Squash Chili

The Instant Pot makes quick work of a dish that is traditionally cooked low and slow. The results won’t disappoint. The beef and butternut squash make a winning pair and using taco seasoning mix just means fewer ingredients to worry about. Swap in ground turkey or even a meat alternative (ie Beyond brand) for the beef if you like.

BASIL & PISTACHIO PESTO PASTA WITH CHICKEN

The dish serves four, but the portion is on the smaller side, so if you have teenagers or hearty appetites, you might want to scale up the recipe (worse case you have leftovers, which are great for lunch the next day). If you need a short cut, buy basil pesto at the market and assemble the rest according to the recipe.

Roasted Broccoli with Hazelnuts, Tahini, and Raisins

broccoli with tahini sauce recipe

Who is to say that a vegetable dish can’t double as a main course. This broccoli is a great example, embellished as it is with nuts and a nourishing tahini dressing. I’d suggest adding another salad or side dish (such as roasted root vegetable, these lentils or this tabbouleh salad), to make it a meal.

Healthy Spinach and Feta Pie

Healthy Spinach and Feta Pie

A lighter spin on a Greek-style spanikopita, this is an excellent make-ahead dish that doubles as a leftover for lunch. Don’t worry, filo dough is pretty easy to work with and seeing that golden puff come out of the oven is darn satisfying. As for sides? Maybe start with a cup of tomato soup  or your favorite store-bought boxed soup.

HEALTHY BREAKFAST TOAST WITH ALL THE TOPPINGS

I made simple nut butter toast for several breakfasts this week and found it so satisfying…once topped with blueberries and chia seeds, another day done with diced apple and chopped nuts. You’ll find loads of ideas here if you’re looking for some inspo.

CASHEW COCONUT ENERGY BALLS

Coconut Fig Energy Balls on a small plate with cashew, lemon and whole figs

These energy balls are a snap to make and tasty to eat. The figs adds naturally sweetness and pairs deliciously with lemon and coconut. Stash the energy balls in the fridge for a quick healthy treat or pre-workout bite.  

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