The Weight-loss Agenda of a Determined Wife : Weeknight Dinners

When I started my weight-loss journey, it was all about that wedding dress.

Now, 40 pounds lighter, I am learning that this journey is far from over.

 by Ellen G. Cooper

Since my Dec. 6, 2014 wedding I have to admit, it has been difficult keeping up with the exercising and healthy eating.

Honeymooning and holiday parties have kept me busy - and pretty full, too.

Learning how to to adapt to the married lifestyle by getting dinner on the table every night in a timely manner has also kept my busy.

Some weeknights are easier than others - while some nights I honestly just want to pick up a pizza.

To keep in line with my goal to lose weight, I have had to find, and create, healthy recipes that work well for a busy lifestyle (and a busy wife). Doing this has helped me get back on weight-loss track.

One of my favorite weeknight dinners is breakfast or brunch for dinner. Luckily, my husband isn't too picky and loves eating breakfast!

If you have eggs and fresh vegetables on hand, whip up a delicious and healthy frittata for dinner. Pair with homemade sweet potato fries and a salad and you will be set!

Veggie Frittata

I like to make my frittatas with whatever I typically have on hand or is in season at the local farmers market:

• Zucchini or squash
• Jalapenos
• Baby Tomatoes
• Spinach or Kale
• Bell Peppers
• Onions
• Asparagus

1. Whisk enough eggs for your family. 
2. Chop your vegetables.
3. Add extra virgin olive oil to a pan, add your veggies and saute for just a few minutes.
4. Add your egg mixture to the pan. Cook, undisturbed, until a thin crust forms on the bottom, about two minutes. Run a rubber spatula around the edge to release the egg from the pan. Continue cooking until the bottom is golden, just a couple more minutes.
5. Now is the time to season! Add whatever seasonings work for you. I tend to always use garlic and red pepper flakes (we like spicy food), and I try to limit the amount of salt.
6. If it suits your diet, sprinkle with a little cheese (Parmesan is tasty!).
7. Transfer your pan to the oven and bake until just set, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from the oven, cut into slices and you are good to go!
   
   

Baked Sweet Potato Fries

I have no fancy recipe for these!

1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees.
2. Peel and slice sweet potatoes and cut into fries (we like ours thin).
3. In a large bowl toss the potatoes with just enough oil to coat. Sprinkle with your choice of seasoning (salt, pepper, paprika, red pepper, etc.).
4. Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet - be careful not to overcrowd the potatoes.
5. Bake until golden brown, turning occasionally, about 25 minutes. Cooking time will vary depending on how crispy you like your fries.
   
   

Try this delicious recipe from the Cleveland Clinic for weeknight success.

Share with us -

What's your favorite healthy weeknight meal?