Looking for a healthy and tasty recipe for homemade baked beans? Look no further than this speedy recipe that delivers on both taste and nutrition. With just a few simple ingredients, including passata, bouillon powder, and pitted dates, this recipe packs a flavorful punch while also providing three of your five-a-day. Serve over jacket potatoes for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
To make the recipe, start by frying onions in a non-stick saucepan with a drop of oil and a bit of water to prevent burning. Add garlic, passata, chopped dates, vinegar, bouillon, bay leaf, and black pepper before adding in haricot beans and water. Simmer until thick and serve over cooked jacket potatoes. This recipe can also be frozen for up to three months, making it a convenient option for meal prep.
Key Takeaways
- This recipe for healthy baked beans is both tasty and nutritious, providing three of your five-a-day.
- The recipe is easy to make with just a few simple ingredients, including passata, bouillon powder, and pitted dates.
- Leftovers can be frozen for up to three months, making it a convenient option for meal prep.
Recipe Overview
This recipe for healthy baked beans is a speedy and easy way to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal. With just a few simple ingredients, it delivers a rich and satisfying taste and texture that will leave you feeling full and satisfied.
The recipe uses passata, which is a smooth and concentrated tomato sauce that is perfect for creating a thick and hearty base for the beans. The addition of finely chopped onions and garlic adds depth and flavor to the dish, while the pitted dates provide a natural sweetness that balances out the acidity of the tomato sauce.
To add a tangy and savory note to the dish, balsamic vinegar and bouillon powder are added to the mix. These ingredients help to enhance the flavors of the other ingredients and create a complex and well-rounded taste.
The recipe also includes haricot beans, which are a great source of protein and fiber. These beans are simmered in the tomato sauce until they are tender and flavorful, creating a hearty and filling dish that is perfect for any time of day.
To serve, the beans are spooned over cooked jacket potatoes, which provide a delicious and nutritious base for the dish. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick and easy, but still healthy and satisfying.
Health Benefits
Nutritional Highlights
This recipe for healthy baked beans is a great way to increase your vegetable intake. With three of your five-a-day in one serving, it provides a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The onions and garlic used in the recipe contain antioxidants that help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. The beans are also a good source of plant-based protein, which is important for maintaining muscle mass and supporting the immune system.
Low-Fat Cooking Method
This recipe uses rapeseed oil, which is low in saturated fat and high in unsaturated fats. Unsaturated fats are considered to be healthier than saturated fats because they can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. The recipe also uses a non-stick saucepan, which means that less oil is needed for cooking. By using a low-fat cooking method, this recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional baked beans recipes that often contain high amounts of sugar and fat.
Ingredients List
Here are the ingredients needed to make our speedy, healthy recipe for homemade baked beans:
- 1 tsp rapeseed oil
- 1 large onion (185g), finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, finely grated
- 500g passata
- 3 pitted dates (about 15g), roughly chopped
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 tsp bouillon powder
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 x 400g haricot beans, drained
- 4 medium cooked jacket potatoes
The recipe calls for rapeseed oil, which is a type of vegetable oil that is low in saturated fat and high in unsaturated fat. This makes it a healthier option compared to other types of oil.
The onion and garlic are both flavorful and nutritious ingredients that are commonly used in cooking. They are both low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals.
Passata is a type of tomato puree that is made from strained and cooked tomatoes. It is a good source of vitamin C and contains lycopene, which is an antioxidant that may help protect against certain types of cancer.
Dates are a natural sweetener that can be used in place of sugar. They are high in fiber and contain several vitamins and minerals.
Balsamic vinegar is a type of vinegar that is made from grapes. It has a sweet and tangy flavor and is often used in salad dressings and marinades.
Bouillon powder is a type of seasoning that is used to add flavor to soups, stews, and other dishes. It is made from dehydrated vegetables, herbs, and spices.
Haricot beans are a type of white bean that is commonly used in baked bean recipes. They are a good source of protein, fiber, and several vitamins and minerals.
Jacket potatoes are a type of baked potato that is cooked with the skin on. They are a good source of fiber and several vitamins and minerals.
Cooking Equipment Required
To make this healthy baked beans recipe, you will need a few pieces of cooking equipment. Here is a list of what you will need:
- Non-stick saucepan
- Chopping board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Can opener
The non-stick saucepan is essential for cooking the onions and garlic without sticking to the bottom of the pan. A chopping board and sharp knife are required to finely chop the onion and roughly chop the dates. Measuring spoons are necessary to measure the rapeseed oil, bouillon powder, and balsamic vinegar accurately.
A wooden spoon is the best tool for stirring the ingredients together. A can opener is needed to open the tins of haricot beans. Finally, you will need a few cooked jacket potatoes to serve the baked beans over.
By having all the equipment ready before starting to cook, the process will be more efficient and enjoyable. The recipe is straightforward, and the cooking equipment required is minimal, making it easy to prepare and cook in a short amount of time.
Preparation Steps
To make these healthy baked beans, start by heating a teaspoon of rapeseed oil in a non-stick saucepan over low heat. Add one large finely chopped onion and fry for five minutes until golden. If the onion starts to burn, add a drop of water.
Stir in two finely grated garlic cloves, followed by 500g of passata, roughly chopped pitted dates, balsamic vinegar, bouillon powder, and a bay leaf. Grind in plenty of black pepper and simmer for five minutes.
Add three drained cans of haricot beans and 400ml of water. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until thick.
Serve the baked beans over four medium cooked jacket potatoes. These healthy baked beans can also be frozen for up to three months. To freeze, leave to cool completely, then divide between freezer bags and freeze. Defrost thoroughly in the fridge overnight and reheat in a pan until piping hot.
Cooking Instructions
To make these healthy baked beans, start by heating the rapeseed oil in a non-stick saucepan over a low heat. Add the finely chopped onion and fry for 5 minutes until golden. If it starts to burn, add a drop of water to prevent this.
Next, stir in the finely grated garlic and add the passata, roughly chopped dates, balsamic vinegar, bouillon powder, bay leaf, and plenty of black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Then, add the drained haricot beans and 400ml of water. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mixture thickens.
To serve, spoon the baked beans over medium cooked jacket potatoes. These healthy baked beans can also be frozen for up to three months. To freeze, leave to cool completely, then divide between freezer bags. Defrost thoroughly in the fridge overnight and reheat in a pan until piping hot.
Enjoy this speedy, healthy recipe that delivers three of your five-a-day.
Serving Suggestions
These healthy baked beans are a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few suggestions:
- Serve over a baked potato, as suggested in the recipe, for a hearty and satisfying meal.
- Top with a poached egg and serve with whole grain toast for a protein-packed breakfast.
- Use as a filling for a vegetarian burrito or wrap.
- Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.
- Use as a topping for a homemade pizza instead of traditional tomato sauce.
No matter how you choose to serve them, these healthy baked beans are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Storage and Freezing
These healthy baked beans can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. To reheat, simply heat in a pan until piping hot.
If you want to freeze the baked beans, let them cool completely before dividing them into freezer bags. They can be frozen for up to three months. To defrost, leave them in the fridge overnight and then reheat them in a pan until piping hot.
It’s important to note that once the baked beans have been frozen and thawed, they should not be refrozen. It’s best to only freeze what you plan on using in one go.
By following these simple storage and freezing tips, you can enjoy these healthy baked beans anytime you want, without having to worry about them going to waste.
Reheating Guidelines
When reheating the healthy baked beans, it is important to ensure that they are heated thoroughly to avoid any risk of food poisoning. Here are some guidelines to follow:
- If reheating from frozen, defrost the beans thoroughly in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheat the beans in a non-stick saucepan over a low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until they are piping hot.
- Alternatively, the beans can be reheated in a microwave-safe dish in the microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Do not reheat the beans more than once, and discard any leftovers that have been left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the delicious and healthy baked beans without any worry.
Alternative Ingredients
For those who want to experiment with the recipe or are looking for substitutes, there are a few alternative ingredients that can be used in this healthy baked beans recipe.
Firstly, instead of rapeseed oil, one can use olive oil or coconut oil. These oils are also healthy options and can add a different flavor to the dish.
If one does not have passata, they can use canned tomatoes or tomato puree instead. Similarly, if one does not have bouillon powder, they can use vegetable stock cubes or even chicken stock cubes if they are not vegetarian.
For those who do not like the taste of balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar can be used as a substitute.
Lastly, for those who are not a fan of haricot beans, they can use cannellini beans or black beans instead. These beans have a similar texture and can be a good alternative.
It is important to note that while these alternatives may change the flavor slightly, they will still result in a healthy and tasty dish.
Pairing Recommendations
Healthy baked beans are a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of foods to create a satisfying meal. Here are a few pairing recommendations to try:
1. Grilled Chicken
Pairing healthy baked beans with grilled chicken is a great way to add lean protein to your meal. The mild flavor of the chicken complements the savory and slightly sweet taste of the beans.
2. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables make a colorful and nutritious side dish to serve with healthy baked beans. Try roasting a mix of red peppers, zucchini, and eggplant for a flavorful and colorful addition to your meal.
3. Cornbread
Cornbread is a classic side dish that pairs well with healthy baked beans. The sweetness of the cornbread balances out the tangy flavor of the beans, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.
4. Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a refreshing and crunchy side dish that complements the rich and hearty flavor of healthy baked beans. Try making a simple coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing for a delicious and healthy meal.
Overall, healthy baked beans are a delicious and nutritious dish that can be paired with a variety of foods to create a satisfying meal. Experiment with different pairings to find your favorite combination.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make a healthy version of baked beans at home?
To make a healthy version of baked beans at home, you can use ingredients like passata, pitted dates, and bouillon powder to add flavor without adding excessive amounts of sugar or salt. You can also use rapeseed oil instead of butter or lard to reduce the amount of saturated fat in the recipe. Adding plenty of vegetables like onions and garlic can also increase the nutritional value of the dish.
What are the health benefits of homemade baked beans versus canned?
Homemade baked beans can be a healthier option compared to canned beans as they do not contain added preservatives or high amounts of sodium. Homemade baked beans also allow you to control the amount of sugar and salt that goes into the recipe, making it a healthier option for those looking to reduce their intake of these ingredients.
Is it possible to create a baked beans recipe without added sugar?
Yes, it is possible to create a baked beans recipe without added sugar. Using ingredients like passata, pitted dates, and balsamic vinegar can add natural sweetness to the dish without the need for added sugar. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to add flavor without adding sugar.
What are some healthy alternatives to traditional ingredients in baked beans?
Some healthy alternatives to traditional ingredients in baked beans include using rapeseed oil instead of butter or lard, using low-sodium bouillon powder instead of salt, and adding plenty of vegetables like onions and garlic to increase the nutritional value of the dish. You can also experiment with different types of beans like black beans or kidney beans to add variety to the recipe.
Can homemade baked beans be a part of a weight-loss diet?
Yes, homemade baked beans can be a part of a weight-loss diet as they are a good source of protein and fiber, which can help you feel fuller for longer. However, it is important to watch portion sizes and to avoid adding excessive amounts of sugar or salt to the recipe.
How do I store and reheat homemade baked beans for future meals?
To store homemade baked beans, let them cool completely and then divide them into freezer bags. The beans can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, defrost the beans in the fridge overnight and then reheat them in a pan until piping hot. Serve over jacket potatoes for a quick and easy meal.
Looking for a healthy and tasty recipe for homemade baked beans? Look no further than this speedy recipe that delivers on both taste and nutrition. With just a few simple ingredients, including passata, bouillon powder, and pitted dates, this recipe packs a flavorful punch while also providing three of your five-a-day. Serve over jacket potatoes for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
To make the recipe, start by frying onions in a non-stick saucepan with a drop of oil and a bit of water to prevent burning. Add garlic, passata, chopped dates, vinegar, bouillon, bay leaf, and black pepper before adding in haricot beans and water. Simmer until thick and serve over cooked jacket potatoes. This recipe can also be frozen for up to three months, making it a convenient option for meal prep.
Key Takeaways
- This recipe for healthy baked beans is both tasty and nutritious, providing three of your five-a-day.
- The recipe is easy to make with just a few simple ingredients, including passata, bouillon powder, and pitted dates.
- Leftovers can be frozen for up to three months, making it a convenient option for meal prep.
Recipe Overview
This recipe for healthy baked beans is a speedy and easy way to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal. With just a few simple ingredients, it delivers a rich and satisfying taste and texture that will leave you feeling full and satisfied.
The recipe uses passata, which is a smooth and concentrated tomato sauce that is perfect for creating a thick and hearty base for the beans. The addition of finely chopped onions and garlic adds depth and flavor to the dish, while the pitted dates provide a natural sweetness that balances out the acidity of the tomato sauce.
To add a tangy and savory note to the dish, balsamic vinegar and bouillon powder are added to the mix. These ingredients help to enhance the flavors of the other ingredients and create a complex and well-rounded taste.
The recipe also includes haricot beans, which are a great source of protein and fiber. These beans are simmered in the tomato sauce until they are tender and flavorful, creating a hearty and filling dish that is perfect for any time of day.
To serve, the beans are spooned over cooked jacket potatoes, which provide a delicious and nutritious base for the dish. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick and easy, but still healthy and satisfying.
Health Benefits
Nutritional Highlights
This recipe for healthy baked beans is a great way to increase your vegetable intake. With three of your five-a-day in one serving, it provides a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The onions and garlic used in the recipe contain antioxidants that help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. The beans are also a good source of plant-based protein, which is important for maintaining muscle mass and supporting the immune system.
Low-Fat Cooking Method
This recipe uses rapeseed oil, which is low in saturated fat and high in unsaturated fats. Unsaturated fats are considered to be healthier than saturated fats because they can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. The recipe also uses a non-stick saucepan, which means that less oil is needed for cooking. By using a low-fat cooking method, this recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional baked beans recipes that often contain high amounts of sugar and fat.
Ingredients List
Here are the ingredients needed to make our speedy, healthy recipe for homemade baked beans:
- 1 tsp rapeseed oil
- 1 large onion (185g), finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, finely grated
- 500g passata
- 3 pitted dates (about 15g), roughly chopped
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 tsp bouillon powder
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 x 400g haricot beans, drained
- 4 medium cooked jacket potatoes
The recipe calls for rapeseed oil, which is a type of vegetable oil that is low in saturated fat and high in unsaturated fat. This makes it a healthier option compared to other types of oil.
The onion and garlic are both flavorful and nutritious ingredients that are commonly used in cooking. They are both low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals.
Passata is a type of tomato puree that is made from strained and cooked tomatoes. It is a good source of vitamin C and contains lycopene, which is an antioxidant that may help protect against certain types of cancer.
Dates are a natural sweetener that can be used in place of sugar. They are high in fiber and contain several vitamins and minerals.
Balsamic vinegar is a type of vinegar that is made from grapes. It has a sweet and tangy flavor and is often used in salad dressings and marinades.
Bouillon powder is a type of seasoning that is used to add flavor to soups, stews, and other dishes. It is made from dehydrated vegetables, herbs, and spices.
Haricot beans are a type of white bean that is commonly used in baked bean recipes. They are a good source of protein, fiber, and several vitamins and minerals.
Jacket potatoes are a type of baked potato that is cooked with the skin on. They are a good source of fiber and several vitamins and minerals.
Cooking Equipment Required
To make this healthy baked beans recipe, you will need a few pieces of cooking equipment. Here is a list of what you will need:
- Non-stick saucepan
- Chopping board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Can opener
The non-stick saucepan is essential for cooking the onions and garlic without sticking to the bottom of the pan. A chopping board and sharp knife are required to finely chop the onion and roughly chop the dates. Measuring spoons are necessary to measure the rapeseed oil, bouillon powder, and balsamic vinegar accurately.
A wooden spoon is the best tool for stirring the ingredients together. A can opener is needed to open the tins of haricot beans. Finally, you will need a few cooked jacket potatoes to serve the baked beans over.
By having all the equipment ready before starting to cook, the process will be more efficient and enjoyable. The recipe is straightforward, and the cooking equipment required is minimal, making it easy to prepare and cook in a short amount of time.
Preparation Steps
To make these healthy baked beans, start by heating a teaspoon of rapeseed oil in a non-stick saucepan over low heat. Add one large finely chopped onion and fry for five minutes until golden. If the onion starts to burn, add a drop of water.
Stir in two finely grated garlic cloves, followed by 500g of passata, roughly chopped pitted dates, balsamic vinegar, bouillon powder, and a bay leaf. Grind in plenty of black pepper and simmer for five minutes.
Add three drained cans of haricot beans and 400ml of water. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until thick.
Serve the baked beans over four medium cooked jacket potatoes. These healthy baked beans can also be frozen for up to three months. To freeze, leave to cool completely, then divide between freezer bags and freeze. Defrost thoroughly in the fridge overnight and reheat in a pan until piping hot.
Cooking Instructions
To make these healthy baked beans, start by heating the rapeseed oil in a non-stick saucepan over a low heat. Add the finely chopped onion and fry for 5 minutes until golden. If it starts to burn, add a drop of water to prevent this.
Next, stir in the finely grated garlic and add the passata, roughly chopped dates, balsamic vinegar, bouillon powder, bay leaf, and plenty of black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Then, add the drained haricot beans and 400ml of water. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mixture thickens.
To serve, spoon the baked beans over medium cooked jacket potatoes. These healthy baked beans can also be frozen for up to three months. To freeze, leave to cool completely, then divide between freezer bags. Defrost thoroughly in the fridge overnight and reheat in a pan until piping hot.
Enjoy this speedy, healthy recipe that delivers three of your five-a-day.
Serving Suggestions
These healthy baked beans are a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few suggestions:
- Serve over a baked potato, as suggested in the recipe, for a hearty and satisfying meal.
- Top with a poached egg and serve with whole grain toast for a protein-packed breakfast.
- Use as a filling for a vegetarian burrito or wrap.
- Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.
- Use as a topping for a homemade pizza instead of traditional tomato sauce.
No matter how you choose to serve them, these healthy baked beans are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Storage and Freezing
These healthy baked beans can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. To reheat, simply heat in a pan until piping hot.
If you want to freeze the baked beans, let them cool completely before dividing them into freezer bags. They can be frozen for up to three months. To defrost, leave them in the fridge overnight and then reheat them in a pan until piping hot.
It’s important to note that once the baked beans have been frozen and thawed, they should not be refrozen. It’s best to only freeze what you plan on using in one go.
By following these simple storage and freezing tips, you can enjoy these healthy baked beans anytime you want, without having to worry about them going to waste.
Reheating Guidelines
When reheating the healthy baked beans, it is important to ensure that they are heated thoroughly to avoid any risk of food poisoning. Here are some guidelines to follow:
- If reheating from frozen, defrost the beans thoroughly in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheat the beans in a non-stick saucepan over a low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until they are piping hot.
- Alternatively, the beans can be reheated in a microwave-safe dish in the microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Do not reheat the beans more than once, and discard any leftovers that have been left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the delicious and healthy baked beans without any worry.
Alternative Ingredients
For those who want to experiment with the recipe or are looking for substitutes, there are a few alternative ingredients that can be used in this healthy baked beans recipe.
Firstly, instead of rapeseed oil, one can use olive oil or coconut oil. These oils are also healthy options and can add a different flavor to the dish.
If one does not have passata, they can use canned tomatoes or tomato puree instead. Similarly, if one does not have bouillon powder, they can use vegetable stock cubes or even chicken stock cubes if they are not vegetarian.
For those who do not like the taste of balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar can be used as a substitute.
Lastly, for those who are not a fan of haricot beans, they can use cannellini beans or black beans instead. These beans have a similar texture and can be a good alternative.
It is important to note that while these alternatives may change the flavor slightly, they will still result in a healthy and tasty dish.
Pairing Recommendations
Healthy baked beans are a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of foods to create a satisfying meal. Here are a few pairing recommendations to try:
1. Grilled Chicken
Pairing healthy baked beans with grilled chicken is a great way to add lean protein to your meal. The mild flavor of the chicken complements the savory and slightly sweet taste of the beans.
2. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables make a colorful and nutritious side dish to serve with healthy baked beans. Try roasting a mix of red peppers, zucchini, and eggplant for a flavorful and colorful addition to your meal.
3. Cornbread
Cornbread is a classic side dish that pairs well with healthy baked beans. The sweetness of the cornbread balances out the tangy flavor of the beans, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.
4. Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a refreshing and crunchy side dish that complements the rich and hearty flavor of healthy baked beans. Try making a simple coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing for a delicious and healthy meal.
Overall, healthy baked beans are a delicious and nutritious dish that can be paired with a variety of foods to create a satisfying meal. Experiment with different pairings to find your favorite combination.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make a healthy version of baked beans at home?
To make a healthy version of baked beans at home, you can use ingredients like passata, pitted dates, and bouillon powder to add flavor without adding excessive amounts of sugar or salt. You can also use rapeseed oil instead of butter or lard to reduce the amount of saturated fat in the recipe. Adding plenty of vegetables like onions and garlic can also increase the nutritional value of the dish.
What are the health benefits of homemade baked beans versus canned?
Homemade baked beans can be a healthier option compared to canned beans as they do not contain added preservatives or high amounts of sodium. Homemade baked beans also allow you to control the amount of sugar and salt that goes into the recipe, making it a healthier option for those looking to reduce their intake of these ingredients.
Is it possible to create a baked beans recipe without added sugar?
Yes, it is possible to create a baked beans recipe without added sugar. Using ingredients like passata, pitted dates, and balsamic vinegar can add natural sweetness to the dish without the need for added sugar. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to add flavor without adding sugar.
What are some healthy alternatives to traditional ingredients in baked beans?
Some healthy alternatives to traditional ingredients in baked beans include using rapeseed oil instead of butter or lard, using low-sodium bouillon powder instead of salt, and adding plenty of vegetables like onions and garlic to increase the nutritional value of the dish. You can also experiment with different types of beans like black beans or kidney beans to add variety to the recipe.
Can homemade baked beans be a part of a weight-loss diet?
Yes, homemade baked beans can be a part of a weight-loss diet as they are a good source of protein and fiber, which can help you feel fuller for longer. However, it is important to watch portion sizes and to avoid adding excessive amounts of sugar or salt to the recipe.
How do I store and reheat homemade baked beans for future meals?
To store homemade baked beans, let them cool completely and then divide them into freezer bags. The beans can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, defrost the beans in the fridge overnight and then reheat them in a pan until piping hot. Serve over jacket potatoes for a quick and easy meal.