Better Than Takeout: Easy Summer Meals

    Better Than Takeout: Easy Summer Meals

    By: Jacqueline Gomes, RD, MBA

    Summer is packed with fun—graduation parties, Father’s Day, weekend get-togethers, and more. With so much going on, who has time to cook? It’s tempting to rely on takeout, but let’s be honest—it often falls short. It’s pricey, not always satisfying, and usually less healthy than we’d like.

    That’s where simple, nourishing meals come in. Start with a lean protein like chicken, beef, tofu, or fish. Load up on colorful veggies and add a satisfying complex carb—think rice, quinoa, or roasted potatoes.

    One of my go-to weeknight saviors? Stir-fries! They’re quick, customizable, and only require one pan—hello, easy cleanup.

    Want to try a delicious recipe that’s faster (and better!) than takeout? Whip up my Better Than Takeout Beef Stir-Fry—on the table in under 30 minutes!

    Better Than Takeout Beef Stir-Fry

    beef stir fry

    Ready in 25 minutes

    Makes: 4 Servings

    Ingredients:

    For the Stir-Fry:

    • 1 lb lean flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
    • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
    • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
    • 1 small red onion, sliced
    • 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
    • 1 tbsp avocado or olive oil
    • 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa (for serving)

    For the Sauce:

    • 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
    • 1 tbsp sesame oil
    • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
    • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
    • 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
    • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

    Instructions

    1. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, and red pepper flakes. If using cornstarch, add it here. Set aside.
    2. Cook the beef: Heat ½ tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add sliced beef in a single layer and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from pan and set aside.
    3. Stir-fry the veggies: In the same pan, add the remaining ½ tablespoon oil. Sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds, then add the onion, peppers, and broccoli. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until crisp-tender.
    4. Bring it together: Return the beef to the pan. Pour in the sauce and toss everything to coat. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting the sauce slightly thicken and the flavors meld.
    5. Serve: Spoon over cooked rice or quinoa. Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions if desired.