Clean eating is all about choosing whole, unprocessed foods that nourish your body and promote overall health. By focusing on fresh ingredients and avoiding artificial additives, you can create delicious meals that are not only satisfying but also beneficial for your well-being. Here are three diverse examples of clean eating dinner recipes that are easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.
This colorful dish is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week. The combination of quinoa and black beans provides a hearty source of protein and fiber, making it a filling option.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook 1 cup of quinoa according to package instructions. While the quinoa is cooking, chop the tops off 4 bell peppers (any color) and remove the seeds. In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa with 1 can of drained and rinsed black beans, 1 cup of diced tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and salt and pepper to taste. Fill each bell pepper with the mixture and place them in a baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
Notes: You can customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like corn or zucchini, or topping with avocado for extra creaminess.
This light and zesty dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making it a heart-healthy choice.
To prepare, marinate 4 salmon fillets in a mixture of 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the juice of 1 lemon, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and a handful of chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or dill) for 20 minutes. While the salmon is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Toss 1 pound of trimmed asparagus with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill the salmon for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until cooked through, and grill the asparagus for about 5 minutes until tender. Serve the salmon and asparagus with lemon wedges.
Notes: If you don’t have a grill, you can also bake the salmon in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes.
This cozy, comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening and is packed with nutrients. Sweet potatoes provide a natural sweetness and are rich in vitamins, while chickpeas add protein and fiber.
Begin by peeling and dicing 2 medium sweet potatoes. In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, cooking until the onion is translucent. Stir in 1 tablespoon of curry powder, 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, and 1 can of diced tomatoes. Add the sweet potatoes and 1 can of drained and rinsed chickpeas, along with 1 cup of vegetable broth. Simmer for 20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender. Stir in 1 can of coconut milk and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Serve over brown rice or quinoa.
Notes: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrition, and adjust the spice level with chili flakes if you like it hot.