Every night there are several reasons not to cook a healthy, satisfying dinner. Among the excuses I use: fresh ingredients are too expensive; I don’t have the time; I’m hungry and want something big and filling; I don’t know where to buy ingredient X.
My dinner tonight was proof that all that is hooey. I made the above dinner (x2, for leftovers the next night!) for less than $7. Yes, that’s $7 for TWO dinners. And it was all done in under 30 minutes, and with absolute minimal effort.
The dinner?
Grilled Mahi-Mahi, Roasted Butternut Squash and Zucchini, and Kale Chips
Grilled Mahi Mahi
Purchased at Trader Joes (frozen) for $3
I simply defrosted the fish during the day. When it came time to eat, I rubbed the fish with a mix of salt, pepper, paprika, and chili powder. Heat up a grill pan with a little bit of olive oil, and cook the fish through. Serve with a lime wedge.
Roasted Butternut Squash and Zucchini
Purchased for $2.75 total
Cut up one zucchini and peeled butternut squash. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any herbs of your choice (I used dried rosemary). Roast in a 400 degree oven until done, about 30 minutes.
Nutrionista’s Kale Chips
Purchased for $.90 (!)
Get a huge bunch of kale and chop off any stems. Wash the leaves, drizzle with olive oil, and add salt and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and sprinkle with parmesan. Add to the oven with the squash about halfway through, and roast these for about 10-12 minutes.
