This traditional meatloaf recipe has a lovely texture, just the right blend of hearty density and tender, moist delicacy. Delicious with ratatouille and garlic mashed potatoes, and very simple to throw together. If you love meatloaf but are looking for a slightly more calorie-conscious version, check out my Meatloaf Muffins recipe instead.
Meatloaf Muffins
A handy way to meal-prep your protein portions for an On-Protocol week on The Balanced Burn, or for everyday eating! They taste equally good both reheated or cold, so they are a really low-fuss option for taking to work for lunch, and pack about 30 grams of protein per serving with less than 7 grams of fat and 5 grams of net carbs.
Ratatouille
My favourite way to “eat the rainbow” and get a wide variety of colourful vegetables in one dish, this simple dish is one of my top picks for cooked vegetables. It’s great alongside any number of different protein options - pan roasted chicken breast, steak, roast lamb, meatloaf, grilled prawns…its versatile flavours make it an easy pairing with almost anything.
I credit one of my favourite Chef-Instructors back in culinary school, Chef Serge Devesa, for introducing me to the wonders of ratatouille, and how just a handful of humble ingredients, judicious use of just a few herbs and seasonings, and patience to let the flavours develop could produce something marvelous!
This high-fibre, nutrient dense but low calorie side dish is an excellent choice for On-Protocol weeks, but sacrifices no flavour and requires no changes vs. Maintenance / regular eating.
Braised Beef and Vegetables
Carrot Soup (AKA Potage Crécy)
Adapted from James Peterson’s excellent book, “Splendid Soups”, this is one of our household’s favourite soups.
It’s quite a versatile base soup that allows for some very easy to implement flavour variations with different spices added when cooking, or garnishes or stir-ins when serving.
While the rice or potatoes included in the recipe may preclude it from being a good fit for On-Protocol weeks in The Balanced Burn, it is a great option for Maintenance and everyday eating as a starter or as part of your meal alongside some lean protein and other sides.
Hungarian Goulash
This low-carb version of Hungarian goulash delivers a hearty, savoury meal with protein options from traditional chunky beef to lean ground beef or chicken. Ideal for On-Protocol weeks in The Balanced Burn program, it omits potatoes but keeps classic flavours. For Maintenance, enjoy with crusty bread and richer meats, with options to boost protein or add greens for extra nutrition.