Quality meals don't have to drain hours from your day; the satisfying taste is possible in just minutes when you have a few strategies that can help make meal prep easier and the results more enjoyable.

Eat better with veggies. If eating better is your goal, explore veggie-based recipes that are hearty and filled with nutrients and vitamins. This Brown and Wild Rice Bowl with Veggie Burger is perfect for a meatless Monday or any other day when you need a fast, filling, and flavorful meal in short order. If you don't have veggie burgers at home, or simply prefer a      meat-based option, a cooked frozen beef patty is a good time-saving alternative. 

Make simple swaps for variety. When you find a dish that's easy and tasty, you may find yourself falling back on the same thing again and again. Prevent taste bud boredom by mixing up your ingredients. You can transform a rice-based recipe by changing up the veggies, cheese, dressing and other toppings. Try pickled jalapenos for spice. Add corn if you like things sweet. Swap a creamy dressing with a zesty vinaigrette for fewer calories and a whole new taste.

Shop for convenience. Takeout may let you skip prep time completely, but you can easily make versions of many favorite to-go meals at home in just a few minutes. This Beef and Broccoli Garlic Rice uses perfectly portioned Minute Ready to Serve microwavable rice cups that help you put together a delicious lunch or dinner without measuring or overeating. Choosing products like portion-controlled rice and other ready-to-serve ingredients can help shave time off your prep work.

Tempt your taste buds with more convenient meal ideas at minuterice.com.

Brown and Wild Rice Bowl with Veggie Burger

Ingredients

• 1 cup Minute Ready to Serve Brown and Wild Rice

• 1 pre-cooked veggie burger patty

• 1/2 cup shredded lettuce

• 1/2 cup halved grape tomatoes

• 2 tablespoons shredded cheddar cheese

• 2 tablespoons ranch dressing

Instructions

1. Prepare rice according to package directions.

2. Break veggie burger into large chunks and place in a small, microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high 60-90 seconds, or until veggie burger is heated through.

3. Toss together rice and a veggie burger. Top with lettuce, tomatoes and cheese. Drizzle with ranch dressing.

Beef and Broccoli Garlic Rice

Ingredients

• 1 cup Minute Ready to Serve Garlic and Olive Oil Jasmine Rice

• 1/2 cup fresh broccoli florets

• 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper

• 2 tablespoons diced water chestnuts

• 3 ounces cooked beef, sliced into strips

• 3 tablespoons teriyaki glaze

•       soy sauce (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat rice according to package directions.

2. In large, microwave-safe bowl, combine broccoli, bell pepper and water chestnuts. Microwave on high 1 minute. Add beef and microwave on high 1 minute.

3. Stir in glaze and rice. Top with soy sauce, if desired.