30 Meals for $30 for My 30th Birthday
I turn 30 on December 3rd, and I thought it would be a fun challenge to try and make 30 meals for $30. I polled you all on my story, and we decided on this recipe! I had so much fun planning, shopping, and executing this challenge. I hope I was able to show you all that eating decent food can be flavorful and affordable. I donated the meals to a local women’s shelter that I used to volunteer at growing up. Back when I had a meal prep business before med school, I’d donate my extra meals here too.
From the start of shopping to the end of delivering the meals, it took me no more than 3 hours total. I hope to keep doing this again, and I look forward to the new lessons, challenges, and experiences this new decade of my life brings me.
Shoutout to @lidlus for being my favorite grocery store (I’m not partnered or sponsored….yet 👀😂).
Ginger Sesame Pasta Salad 🫚🫑🥗
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
-250g (10oz.) of rotini pasta
-1 red onion, thinly sliced
-2 bell peppers, thinly sliced
-1/2 cup shredded carrot
-olive oil for cooking
-sesame seed for garnish
Sauce:
-1/3 cup soy sauce
-2 tbs sesame oil
-2 tbs honey or agave
-1 tbs brown sugar
-1 tbs minced ginger
-1 tbs minced garlic
-1 tsp red chili flakes
-cornstarch slurry (1 tbs cornstarch mixed with 1 tbs water)
Instructions:
-cook pasta to al dente according to package instructions, strain out water, lightly oil to prevent sticking, and set aside
-add sauce ingredients into small bowl and mix together
-set a small saucepan on low heat, add 1 tbs oil, and toast garlic and ginger
-and the rest of the sauce ingredients
-add in cornstarch slurry and mix well; simmer for 2-3 minutes and remove from heat when sauce is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon
-in a large bowl add pasta, veggies, and sauce; mix well
-garnish with sesame seeds and divide equally into meal containers
-store in fridge for up to 5 days
-enjoy cold or reheated
As we mark milestones like turning 30, reflections on life and how we can make a positive impact become crucial. This birthday challenge not only aims to create delightful meals out of a limited budget but also underscores the importance of community service. Meal prepping is a great way to save time and money, ensuring that you have healthy options ready throughout the week. The Ginger Sesame Pasta Salad, among the featured recipes, is not only budget-friendly but also packed with vibrant flavors thanks to fresh vegetables and a savory sauce. With many individuals seeking ways to eat healthily while being financially conscious, this article inspires readers to explore similar challenges. From easy recipes that require minimal ingredients to creative meal ideas, the possibilities are endless. Plus, contributing meals to local shelters or community kitchens can be incredibly rewarding, fostering connections within your community. Embrace the joy of cooking delicious meals that are also beneficial to others. Not only does this initiative highlight culinary creativity, but it also embodies the spirit of sharing and generosity.
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