When you want Mexican food, but don’t want all the calories and want something affordable, this is a great option. This is a recipe that can be altered to your taste and caloric needs. I add or take away ingredients based on price or my needs. I usually make 5 to 6 meals out of a recipe. I rarely use all the meals I make for a week, so I freeze one or two. The meals can be frozen for up to 3 months. This is great for stockpiling meals in case you find yourself in a situation where you won’t have time to meal prep one week. The taco bowls freeze very well and I take them out and store them in the fridge 1-4 days before I use them. They are great for a quick meal that is fulfilling and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground meat (beef, chicken, turkey or pork)
• 1 can beans (kidney or black beans)
• 2-3 bell peppers sliced or chopped
• 1 medium onion chopped
• 1 tomato or 2 Roma tomatoes
• 5-6 servings of rice, based on package instructions (I usually use Minute Rice, but use what you like)
• 1 packet of taco seasoning or spice of your choice
  • I use, to taste:
    • cumin
    • chili powder
    • a little curry powder
• 2 avocados (optional)
• 1 serving low fat cheese per container
• 1 tbsp light sour cream or light Greek yogurt

Directions:

Heat oil or cooking spray in a large skillet. Add meat and brown until cooked through. Add beans, bell peppers and onions once the meat is cooked. Cover with a lid and let cook until the peppers and onions are soft. Add tomatoes and cover for about a minute to soften the tomatoes. If you are meal prepping, the tomatoes will finish cooking in the microwave.

While the meat is cooking, prep the rice based on the instructions on the box or container. When everything is cooked, divide the ingredients into 5 or 6 equal servings among your meal prep containers. Put your rice down first and scoop the meat mixture overtop. Sit the containers on the counter to cool. Once cool, add cheese, avocado and sour cream/Greek yogurt. Put the lids on and place the containers in the fridge. If you plan to freeze any, wait until the next day to put them in the freezer. If they are still somewhat warm when placed in the freezer ice will form. There will be some ice crystals, but there are less if it cools properly.

When you’re ready to serve from the fridge, place in the microwave for two minutes. Mix and if you need to reheat, then add it back to the microwave for another minute. If pulling from the freezer, take it out at least a day before and put it in the fridge to defrost before heating.

Enjoy!