This is a favorite for weeknight meals with my husband and a crowd-pleaser at our parties – Page 2

Instructions:

Cook the Protein:

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your protein (chicken, ground beef, or tofu) and season with salt, pepper, and your choice of spices.
Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes for chicken or 3-5 minutes for ground beef. Set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables:

In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary, and sauté your vegetables (bell peppers, onions, zucchini) until they are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder to enhance the flavor.

Combine and Add Sauce:

Add your cooked protein back into the pan with the vegetables. Stir everything together.
Pour in a can of tomato sauce (or diced tomatoes for more texture) and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Serve:

For a simple yet satisfying meal, serve this mixture over a bed of rice or quinoa. If you’re feeling more casual, serve in tortillas to make wraps or tacos.
Garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese or avocado for extra richness.

Optional Add-ins:

Want to add a little extra heat? Toss in some jalapeños or drizzle with hot sauce.
For a more comforting meal, top with fried eggs for a protein-packed finish.

Why This Recipe Works for Both Weeknights and Parties

Weeknight Convenience

After a long day at work or school, the last thing you want to do is spend hours cooking. This recipe allows you to have a nutritious, home-cooked meal on the table in under 30 minutes, with minimal cleanup. It’s easy to prep ahead of time too. Chop your veggies and protein in advance and store them in the fridge to make the cooking process even faster.

Party Appeal

When it comes to hosting, everyone loves a dish that’s easy to serve, customizable, and delicious. This recipe is perfect for buffet-style meals, where guests can serve themselves. You can prepare the dish in a large pan and let people assemble their own servings with their choice of rice, tortillas, and toppings. This makes it a great option for dinner parties, potlucks, or casual gatherings where everyone can personalize their plates.

A Versatile Dish for All Seasons

This recipe is incredibly versatile, meaning you can adjust it to fit the season or whatever ingredients you have on hand. During the warmer months, use fresh tomatoes, corn, and avocados to give the dish a lighter, summery feel. In the colder months, add heartier ingredients like sweet potatoes, pumpkin, or spinach to make it more comforting and filling.

Tips for the Best Results

Season to taste: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning. If you like things spicy, add more chili powder or toss in some chopped jalapeños.
Use leftovers creatively: The leftovers from this dish can be turned into quesadillas, wraps, or even a topping for nachos.
Fresh herbs: Garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or basil adds a burst of flavor and color.
Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, use cheddar, monterey jack, or even feta for a tangy twist.

Why It’s a Winner Every Time

Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a crowd, this recipe is a surefire way to please everyone at the table. It’s adaptable, quick, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect solution for a weeknight dinner or a party dish that’s bound to be a hit.

The beauty of this dish lies in its flexibility—it’s simple to make yet full of flavor, and it has the kind of versatility that lets you adjust ingredients based on what you have in your pantry or what your guests prefer. It’s a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction, no matter the occasion.

Conclusion: The Perfect Meal for Every Occasion

This weeknight favorite and party crowd-pleaser is a dish you’ll want to keep in your recipe rotation. It’s easy, customizable, and packed with flavor, making it a winner for everything from quick family dinners to large gatherings. Whether served as a simple weeknight meal or as a showstopper at your next party, this dish will never disappoint.

So, gather your ingredients, set the table, and enjoy a delicious meal that’s sure to be loved by all.

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