23 Jul Simplicity in the Kitchen: Delicious Minimal Ingredient Recipes for a Healthy Lifestyle

Cooking healthy and delicious meals doesn’t have to be complicated. At Covenant Woods Retirement, we understand the value of simplicity, especially in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, minimal ingredient recipes can make meal preparation easy and enjoyable. Here are some of our favorite recipes that require just a handful of ingredients but are packed with flavor and nutrition.

1. Avocado Toast

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe avocado
• 2 slices of whole-grain bread
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: A squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes

Instructions:

1. Toast the bread slices to your desired level of crispiness.
2. While the bread is toasting, cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a bowl.
3. Mash the avocado with a fork until it’s mostly smooth. Add salt, pepper, and optional lemon juice or red pepper flakes.
4. Spread the mashed avocado onto the toasted bread and enjoy immediately.

2. Lemon Garlic Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon (zest and juice)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour the lemon garlic mixture over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.

3. Tomato Basil Soup

Ingredients:

• 4 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until soft.
2. Add the chopped tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
3. Cook for about 20 minutes, or until the tomatoes are very soft.
4. Add the fresh basil leaves and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Berry Yogurt Parfait

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Greek yogurt
• 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1/2 cup granola
• 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions:

1. In a glass or bowl, layer half of the Greek yogurt.
2. Add a layer of mixed berries and a drizzle of honey.
3. Repeat with the remaining yogurt, berries, and honey.
4. Top with granola just before serving for a crunchy finish.

5. Banana Oat Pancakes

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Optional: A pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the bananas, eggs, oats, and baking powder. Blend until smooth.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and pour small amounts of batter to form pancakes.
3. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown.
4. Serve with your favorite toppings, such as fresh fruit or a drizzle of maple syrup.

At Covenant Woods Retirement, we believe that simplicity in cooking can lead to a healthier and more enjoyable lifestyle. These minimal ingredient recipes are perfect for anyone looking to create nutritious meals without the hassle. Give them a try and savor the delicious flavors of simplicity!