Rainbow Beef & Veggie Meal Prep Bowl

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth or water
• 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

1. Preheat a large skillet over medium heat with olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika during cooking. Remove beef from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced red bell pepper and zucchini. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp. Add corn kernels and shredded cabbage; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to combine flavors. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, bring the beef broth (or water) to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, until quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, sautéed vegetables, and browned beef. Add chopped cilantro and lime juice; gently toss to combine everything evenly.
6. Divide the mixture evenly into 4 meal prep containers. Optional: garnish with extra cilantro or a lime wedge for serving.
7. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes before eating.

Chef tips

• If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based ground crumbles.
• Use leftover cooked quinoa or rice to reduce prep time on busy days.
• For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.
• To keep vegetables crisp, don’t overcook them; sauté just until tender-crisp.