Make it quick or don’t make it at all.
That’s literally the mantra running through my head right now as we’re barreling into the holiday season and I’ve got eleventy-million balls in the air between work, life and family. Sound familiar? Seriously though, being super busy (and truly busy, not just busy for the sake of being busy) is exhausting and it often means cutting corners more often than you’d like. Case in point: weeknight meals and meal prepping. Neither of which is rocket science, but they do add to your overall burden when you’ve already got too much on your plate. And if you can’t make them quick you might not make it happen at all. I’ll be the first to admit that we’ve dined out more times in the last month than we have in the past 6 months prior because, well, let’s be honest. I didn’t plan ahead. But thankfully with this Sheet Pan Cauliflower Fried Rice, I really don’t have to do all that much advance planning. A 10-minute trip through the store for some produce, a rotisserie chicken (or other leftover protein in my fridge), a few pantry staples, and I’ve got a veggie-packed dinner on the table in less time than it takes to run across town for takeout.
The super-easy sheet pan dinner that’s a win-win all around.
I already told you this Sheet Pan Cauliflower Fried Rice was quick and easy but what I didn’t tell you is how incredibly delicious it is. Like, can’t-stop-shoving-forkfuls-into-your-mouth delicious. It’s really good and in addition to being quick and easy and meal prep-friendly, it definitely scratches that itch for greasy Chinese takeout fried rice, but does so with a healthy dose of veggies.
So many ways to make it your own.
And it’s endlessly adaptable so you can use what you’ve got on hand. For example:
Substitute frozen peas and carrot for the fresh diced carrots and sliced sugar snap peas. Substitute finely diced onion for the green onions. Leave out the eggs for a 100% plant-based meal or side dish. Add your favorite cooked protein about 5 minutes before cooking time is up – chicken, salmon, pork, shrimp, ground turkey, bacon or ham are all great options. Toss in any of your favorite veggies (cut into small cubes or slices) – zucchini, broccoli, cabbage, bok choy, bell peppers. It won’t be as ‘authentic’ but then again, you’re not using real rice, so it wasn’t all that authentic to start with, right?
Do yourself a favor and make this Sheet Pan Cauliflower Fried Rice soon.
I guarantee it’ll make you feel like a super kitchen ninja even when time is really tight. Plus, it’s a great way to clean out the crisper as the end of the week draws near.
What’s your tried and true ‘go-to’ meal when time is tight? Share in the comments below.
Pin it now & make it later!
Photo Credit: The photos in this blog post were taken by Jess of Plays Well with Butter.
