Firefighters' schedules are exceptionally demanding. When they are not risking their lives to protect their communities, they are busy working together to upkeep the stations that serve as their second homes. In a career that demands a good deal of stamina, it is important for firefighters to maintain a nutritional and filling diet. However, it can be difficult to find time to prepare food. The recipes below are some examples of quick and nourishing meals to keep firefighters energized and healthy.
Lemon thyme chicken with sauteed vegetables
This protein-packed meal takes only 20 minutes from start to finish. The chicken is bursting with zesty flavor, and the sauteed vegetables complete the dish nicely. At only 325 calories per serving, this dish is perfect for feeding a station full of hungry firefighters. See the full recipe here.
Whole-wheat Southwestern pizza
There is no need to waste station budget on ordering a pizza when this recipe can be done in 18 minutes or less. Top the whole-wheat crust with an array of fresh vegetables for a healthier take on a Friday night favorite. Alternate between chicken, sausage, turkey and beef each time to add protein and variety.
Grilled beef with basil puree over Tuscan beans
Beef and beans are notorious for being chock-full of protein, so this dish is sure to keep the station full and ready to go. The juicy tenderloin and hearty beans are extremely easy to make and can be on the table in about 20 minutes. Get the recipe here.
Pork chops with Dijon glaze
In just 30 minutes, this savory dish is ready to be devoured. The Dijon glaze accentuates the buttery flavors of the pork chops, making this a meal to remember. To make the recipe even healthier, leave out the honey. It will taste just as delicious without the added sugar.
Cauliflower sauce with whole-wheat penne
Pasta is full of good carbohydrates that provide the body with energy. The 35 minutes it takes to make this recipe will not be wasted. The creamy cauliflower sauce coats the pasta in delectable perfection. To make this a vegetarian dish, substitute the chicken stock with vegetable stock.
Ancho-glazed salmon and sweet potato fries
This meal contains an impressive 30 grams of protein per serving. Spicy notes from the ancho chilies give the salmon a little extra kick. The combination of nutrients from the fish and the sweet potatoes will keep firefighters full through any emergency situation, and this dish only takes 20 minutes to make. Click here for the recipe.
Korean sticky chicken
For those extra busy days around the station, try making this dish. It only takes eight ingredients and 12 minutes to finish. The sauce combines the sweet flavors of honey with energizing hints of spice. The chicken is tender and sure to satisfy big hunger. Get the recipe for this quick meal here.
Finding time to prepare a healthy, balanced meal with a normal schedule is difficult. For firefighters, the challenge is even greater. All of the meals above can be completed in 35 minutes or less and provide the proper nutrition to keep any station healthy and ready for action.