General Foods recipe's (nutrition based) for gents

Eating a balanced diet is essential for maintaining overall health and wellness. Incorporating nutrient-dense foods into your meals can help you achieve this balance. Here are three nutritious recipes: a Quinoa Salad with Vegetables, Grilled Chicken with Steamed Vegetables, and a Smoothie Bowl. These recipes are designed to provide a variety of nutrients, including lean protein, healthy fats, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. 

Quinoa Salad with Vegetables

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until water is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine cucumber, red bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. Add the cooled quinoa to the bowl.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour over the quinoa salad and toss to coat.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition Benefits:

• High in protein and fiber
• Rich in vitamins and minerals
• Healthy fats from olive oil

2. Grilled Chicken with Steamed Vegetables

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup baby carrots
• 1 cup snap peas
• 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush chicken breasts with olive oil and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
4. While the chicken is grilling, steam the broccoli, carrots, and snap peas until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Toss the steamed vegetables with butter and a pinch of salt.
6. Serve the grilled chicken with a side of steamed vegetables.

Nutrition Benefits:

• Lean protein from chicken
• Fiber and vitamins from vegetables
• Low in saturated fats

3. Smoothie Bowl

Ingredients:

• 1 banana, frozen
• 1/2 cup frozen berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup almond milk
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Toppings: sliced fruits, granola, nuts, coconut flakes

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine frozen banana, frozen berries, Greek yogurt, almond milk, chia seeds, and honey. Blend until smooth and thick.
2. Pour the smoothie into a bowl.
3. Top with your choice of sliced fruits, granola, nuts, and coconut flakes.
4. Enjoy immediately.

Nutrition Benefits:

• High in antioxidants from berries
• Probiotics from Greek yogurt
• Omega-3 fatty acids from chia seeds

These recipes offer a good balance of macronutrients and are rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to a healthy diet.

Incorporating these nutritious recipes into your meal plan can contribute significantly to a balanced diet, supporting overall health and wellness. Whether you're looking for a protein-packed salad, a lean and flavorful main course, or a refreshing and antioxidant-rich