Protein-Packed Family Dinner

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 pound ground turkey or beef
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
• 2 cups quinoa
• 8 oz whole wheat pasta
• 1 cup brown rice
• 2 bell peppers, chopped
• 1 cup spinach, chopped
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup salsa
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• Chopped fresh herbs (cilantro, parsley) for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and bell peppers until they soften, about 5 minutes.
2. Increase heat to medium-high and add your choice of ground turkey or beef. Cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes.
3. Stir in the chopped zucchini and spinach, cooking until wilted, about 3 minutes.
4. Add cooked quinoa or brown rice to the skillet, followed by the chickpeas and black beans. Stir in salsa, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Reduce heat to medium and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes.
6. Sprinkle cheese over the top and cover the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.

Nutrition