Lentil soup and quinoa bowls with roasted vegetables are excellent one-pot, high-fiber meals perfect for busy weekdays. They are nutritious, easy to prepare, and require minimal cleanup.
Detailed Explanation:
One-pot meals are a lifesaver when time is short. Here's how to make two fiber-rich options:
1. Lentil Soup:
- Sauté diced onions, carrots, and celery in a large pot with olive oil. This creates a flavorful base.
- Add rinsed brown or green lentils (about 1 cup), vegetable broth (4 cups), diced tomatoes (1 can), and your favorite spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
2. Quinoa Bowl with Roasted Vegetables:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Chop your favorite vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, sweet potatoes, and Brussels sprouts. Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any other desired spices (garlic powder, paprika).
- Roast the vegetables on a baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.
- While the vegetables are roasting, cook quinoa according to package directions (usually 1 cup quinoa to 2 cups water or broth).
- Combine the cooked quinoa and roasted vegetables in a bowl. You can add toppings like avocado, nuts, seeds, or a tahini dressing for extra flavor and nutrients.
Pro Tip:
Prepare a large batch of either the lentil soup or roasted vegetables on the weekend. This way, you can quickly assemble meals during the week by simply reheating the components. This saves time and ensures you have a healthy, fiber-rich option readily available.