White Orchid Melody

Often the quest for a simpler existence comes with the desire to live more frugally.  If you read yesterday’s post, you know I have mixed feelings about that.  It is important to spend your money on the things that actually matter to you, whereas most of us spend a good amount on things we could do without–things that aren’t very gratifying.  Often times the less expensive option is the more satisfying choice.  This is true with food, where a home cooked meal is usually better than dining out.  An easy way to eat well and save cash for more important things, is to take your lunch to work, rather than buying something at the corner joint.  It is probably healthier too!  The following recipe is a super quick way to make a healthy lunch.  These burritos took me all of 15 minutes to make six.  It wouldn’t have taken much longer to make twice that many; that’s just how many tortillas I had on hand! 

1 pkg of whole wheat tortillas
1 can of fat free refried beans (these contain no oil or lard)
1/2 cup each frozen veggies: corn, sweet peas, mixed sweet peppers, cut green beans
spices to taste: onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, red pepper

Saute your frozen veggies with a little olive oil (1-2tsp), a splash of lemon juice (1 Tbsp) and the spices.  Place lid on pan and cook over med-low heat until thawed.  Remove lid and cook off any remaining liquid (you don’t want runny burritos!).  Warm tortillas for about 30 seconds to make them more pliable.  Spread a couple tablespoons of refried beans on each tortilla and then top with veggie mixture.  Be careful not to overfill, as they will be hard to wrap.  Fold up the tortilla and then wrap in plastic to secure.  That’s it!  Ready for the freezer.  You can make these on a weekend and have lunches for the whole week.  To thaw, remove plastic wrap, and microwave for 1-2 minutes.  Yum!  Also try other ingredients such as black beans, cheddar cheese, and any seasonal vegetables.  Pack up a frozen burrito with a salad and some fruit and lunch is ready!