Monday, June 8, 2009

the lazy-ish cook: broccoli and couscous and carrots and hummus.

Disclaimer: I am aware that the "recipe" I posted below is not a real recipe, nor gourmet food, nor terribly creative. It's just an idea that may provide inspiration when overwhelmed by the I-am-totally-starving-and-tired-and-don't-want-to-cook-and-anyway-can't-come-up-with-an-idea-for-a-quick-and-healthy-meal-monster.

Sometimes, I get hungry.  and tired.  and lazy.

combined, those three elements are a surefire nutritional disaster.  So, I am trying to stockpile recipes and ideas that I can rely on when hunger and fatigue strike simultaneously.  The requirements are: healthy and uses primarily whole foods (no mixes), is obscenely easy, is ready for consumption in less than 20 minutes, and will not make me loathe myself for 2 days after I eat it.

Today's was a winner.  On the table in less than 15 minutes!!!

Preheat oven to 425-ish.  Spray a small pan with nonstick spray (I like organic Pam).  Take some ready-to-eat fresh broccoli florets and place them in the pan.  Drizzle with a teaspoon of olive oil and toss with salt and pepper.  Stick it in the oven for around 10 minutes (however long you like it, about 10 minutes is good for me).
Prepare a serving of couscous according to package directions (I like Near East brand).
While the couscous is sitting covered and the broccoli is finishing up, put a spoonful of hummus on a plate alongside some ready-to-eat fresh baby carrots.
Put the couscous in a bowl, top with the broccoli, and enjoy with the hummus and carrots.

3 comments:

Jonathan said...

I actually like this kind of meal (though a couple slices of proscuitto would be nice too), but you make it sound like you just open up the fridge and behold, fresh carrots, broccoli, and hummus.

All I have in my fridge is sour milk, stale brie, and Jordan's mystery leftovers.

Lauren said...

haha, well, it does require some planning. I am very lucky right now because my mom goes to costco once a week and stocks up on all kinds of fruit and veggies, and she usually shares. But I try to shop once or twice a week on my way home from teaching and get lots of fresh veggies. I'm trying to be more proactive and plan ahead because I definitely prefer to eat this way. It's not always easy, but I am really trying to build better habits.

But I have WAY more free time than you do!

Re: proscuitto, I'm not a huge fan (though I don't hate it.) I think avocado would be lovely and complementary source of protein with this meal. Or to stir in some shelled edamame to the broccoli and couscous.

Carolyn Gx said...

I was thinking edamame in the couscous too!!! I am so proud of myself! (haha!)