25 Healthy Recipes for Lazy People

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Is lazy the correct word? We're all so rushed these days; it's probably more apt to say "25 Healthy Recipes for Normal People!" But whether you're short on time or just want a few more hours to spend with the kids, the pets, a good book, or your favorite TV show, these recipes can be made quickly and easily. And they're just as good for your health as they are your schedule. (See also: Slow Cooker Recipes for Busy (or Lazy) Vegetarians)

Let's start with the most rushed meal of the day.

Breakfast

They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day. But, it doesn't have to be the most time-consuming. In fact, these little wonders can be prepared in minutes, and they're way better for you than a bowl of cereal or a pre-packaged granola bar. (See also: Make-Ahead, Freezable Hot Breakfasts)

1. Southwestern Egg and Bean Wrap

The beans are optional in this quick breakfast wrap, and if you're counting calories you can always remove them (or another ingredient of your choice). At only 245 calories though, it's filling and delicious.

2. Kale Egg Bake

The buzzword of the moment seems to be kale. It's everywhere, and with good reason. It's versatile (try making kale chips; even the kids love them), and it's full of flavor. This baked egg and kale dish is very easy to prepare, and if you make several you can reheat them for days after. (See also: Easy Kale Recipes)

3. Quinoa Breakfast Bake

Quinoa for breakfast? Sure, why not? And this breakfast quinoa recipe is actually more like oatmeal, flavored with cinnamon, allspice, maple syrup, and berries. Very simple to make, it bakes for an hour (it'll be ready right after you finish the Sunday crossword), and it is delicious. Leftovers taste even better.

4. Quick Breakfast Burrito

Mmmm, burritos. They are up there with sandwiches as a very versatile and easy-to-make meal. Fill them with fruits, meats, vegetables — you name it. This breakfast burrito recipe calls for the traditional blend of eggs, tomatoes, and chilis. And it's delicious.

5. Egg in a Frame

Egg in a Frame was introduced to me by my wife when I first moved to America, and I had a hard time believing it had taken me 26 years to try it. It's also one of the simplest breakfasts to cook, and you can vary the recipe by adding a little bacon, spinach, or different types of bread. You can even use raisin bread for a sweet and salty treat.

6. Bacon and Apple Fast Wrap

This very quick and easy breakfast wrap uses bacon, cheese, and a whole wheat tortilla. You can also vary the ingredients, substituting or adding avocado, lettuce, tomato, and banana peppers. (See also: Easy Breakfasts for People on the Go)

Lunch

Forget the fast-food trap — it's loaded with calories and costs can really add up if you go daily. Most of these can be prepared at home quickly and easily.

7. Apple Curry Turkey Pita

Anything with curry in it gets my vote. In fact, did you know that curry has the same addictive qualities as chocolate, and releases the same endorphins? Try this curried turkey with apple for a sweet and tangy lunch. Add a little mango chutney for extra sweetness.

8. Shrimp-Filled Sweet Potato

This recipe for a baked sweet potato contains as much protein as four slices of turkey breast. But the flavor far exceeds anything turkey could ever bring to the table, thanks to the kielbasa and tangy shrimp. (See also: 45 Sweet Potato Dishes)

9. Chicken Satay

What's better than meat on sticks? Well, some would say meat in a cone, but I think sticks have it beat. Chicken Satay is delicious, very easy to make, and low in calories.

10. Spicy Couscous Soup

More Indian flavors come to the party, this time in a vegetarian dish that takes little preparation and cooking time. As with most Indian food, the flavors are bold and complex, but the recipe isn't. Enjoy this very filling soup that's low in calories

11. Chili-Spiced Salmon Salad

Make use of your blender or food processor to whiz up a tasty sauce for this salad, which can be assembled in minutes. And the flavors are well worth it.

12. Whole-Wheat Chicken Panini

At 570 calories per serving, this chicken panini proves that tasty food doesn't have to be fattening. If you don't have a panini press, you can get the same results from a hot pan. (See also: Best Panini Presses)

13. Prosciutto and Fig Panini

The wonderfully complex but complementary flavors in this lunch panini are well worth the shopping trip. You will need to pick up Fontina cheese and the best prosciutto you can find, but your taste buds (and your waistline) will thank you. And all it takes is 10 minutes.

Dinner

It's probably the trickiest meal of the day to prepare. Everyone's home, and everyone's got different tastes (especially the kiddos). These ideas should keep even the fussiest family members happy and healthy. Some of these recipes are for one person, so increase according to servings required. (See also: Easy Make-Ahead Dinner Party Dishes)

14. Chicken Florentine

This delicious and healthy version of the classic chicken Florentine dish takes a little time, but it's not complicated at all. And when you're done, you will hardly believe this can be good for you.

15. No-Bake Macaroni and Cheese

Who needs the hassle of baking a mac 'n' cheese dish? This simple crowd-pleaser takes just 25 minutes to create, and it's both healthy and delicious. The addition of broccoli gives it a more well-rounded flavor than traditional mac 'n' cheese, but the kids should be fine with it. After all, everything's covered in a tasty cheese sauce.

16. Turkey Chili

Chili is all about good spices and long simmering. Although this turkey chili is ready in just thirty minutes, if you want the best flavors, let it simmer on low for a few hours.

17. Healthy Chicken Nuggets and Blackberry-Mustard Sauce

You don't have to feel guilty about serving up chicken nuggets. These chicken nuggets are not deep-fried, but simply flipped in a pan with a little hot oil. And the cornmeal gives them a great crunch!

18. Creamy Avocado Pasta

You'll be amazed at how quickly and easily you can throw together a tasty pasta dish — just 15 minutes, a little over the time it makes to boil the pasta! And the results are worth sharing.

19. Zesty Stir-Fried Shrimp

The reduced fat and reduced salt ingredients in this zesty stir-fried shrimp recipe keep it healthy, but the tangy lemons and shrimp keep it a treat for the tastebuds. It's easy and impressive. (See also: 70 Shrimp Recipes)

Dessert

Finally, dessert. Many of these recipes are also low calorie, so you can splurge a little. And thankfully, these ideas are also just as good for your body as well as your hectic schedule. (See also: Single-Serving "Fake" Desserts)

20. Cantaloupe Granita

If you're looking for a healthier alternative to ice cream, this cantaloupe granita is perfect. It takes about an hour to set, but only requires about 10 minutes of actual work.

21. Light Peach Parfait

Take just 10 minutes out of your busy day to prepare a dessert parfait everyone will love. Make sure you use fresh peaches (grilled really makes a difference, too) and fat free topping.

22. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries

A favorite around Valentine's Day, there is no reason not to enjoy this decadent little treat after any meal. As the main ingredient is fresh strawberries, you're being good to yourself, too.

23. Instant Apple Crisp

Rolled oats are the secret to this family favorite. But unlike traditional apple crisp, this quick apple crisp will take just 10 minutes and won't be a guilty pleasure.

24. Baby Tiramisu

It's not often you see the word tiramisu on a list of quick and/or healthy desserts, but this one is the exception to the rule. It takes just 15 minutes to make, and it's delicious.

25. Instant Rice Pudding

Well, instant may be a strong word, but it's very quick. The addition of fresh fruit and the smart use of cooked rice (use brown for an even healthier version) makes this rice pudding a winner.

What are your favorite easy, healthy dishes? Please share in comments!

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