Lean Beef and Vegetable Casserole with Mixed Green Salad

Ingredients

• 5 oz mixed salad greens (about 5-6 cups, washed and dried)
• 1 pcs cucumber (medium, sliced or chopped)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 0.25 pcs red onion (small, thinly sliced)
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tsp dijon mustard
• 1 tsp honey
• 0.5 tsp dried oregano
• 0.25 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the vinaigrette

   • In a small bowl or a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the lemon juice, dijon mustard, honey, and dried oregano.
   • Whisk or shake vigorously to combine.
   • Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing is emulsified.
   • Season with salt and black pepper, and whisk again. Set aside.
2. 2

   Assemble the salad

   • In a large salad bowl, add the washed and dried mixed greens.
   • Add the sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion on top of the greens.
3. 3

   Dress and serve

   • Just before serving, give the vinaigrette a final whisk or shake.
   • Pour about half of the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything lightly.
   • Add more dressing as needed to your preference. Serve immediately.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Broccoli (about 1 large head)
• 1 cup Water (for steaming)
• 0.5 tsp Salt (or to taste)
• 0.25 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Broccoli: Wash the broccoli head thoroughly under cold running water. Pat dry. Cut the large head into bite-sized florets, aiming for a uniform size for even cooking. Peel the tough outer layer of the main stalk and slice it into 1/4-inch thick coins; they are delicious and nutritious too.

2. 2

   Set Up the Steamer: Pour about 1 inch of water into a large pot or saucepan. Place a steamer basket inside, ensuring the water level is below the bottom of the basket. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.

3. 3

   Steam the Broccoli: Carefully place the broccoli florets and stem pieces into the steamer basket. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to medium. Steam for 4-5 minutes.

4. 4

   Check for Doneness: After 4 minutes, carefully lift the lid and check the broccoli. It should be a vibrant, bright green color and tender-crisp. You should be able to easily pierce the thickest part of a stem with a fork. Avoid overcooking, which makes it mushy and dull in color.

5. 5

   Season and Serve: Using tongs or an oven mitt, carefully remove the hot steamer basket from the pot. Transfer the broccoli to a serving dish. Immediately season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently to combine and serve warm.