HAWC introduces recipes for healthy living on a tight schedule, budget

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Austin M. May
  • 47th Flying Training Wing public affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  There are several factors that can influence the way a person eats, including schedule, budget and availability of cooking facilities.

Perhaps no one knows this better than the staff members of the Laughlin Health and Wellness Center, who have designed a program intended to promote healthy eating in a fast-paced living environment.

Christine Anderson, the HAWC's new Registered Dietician, plans to introduce on a regular basis recipes which are quick and easy to prepare, affordable and above all, nutritious.

"These recipes are aimed mostly at dorm residents, but are perfect for anyone who may be on a budget, diet or tight schedule," she said.

The recipes, which will be featured online and in the Laughlin Herald, will contain very few ingredients, most of which will be very inexpensive and reusable.

"One of the main goals of this program is to keep meal costs low," Anderson said. "The first recipe costs about $1.57 per serving, and can feed four people."

Each will focus on a key nutritional element, and will only have two to three steps for preparation. Anderson said another benefit of these recipes is that most of them will only use one pan or a grill.

The recipes are only part of a large push by the HAWC to promote healthy lifestyles on Laughlin. Anderson said there are many events planned for the near future, including cooking demonstrations and classes targeted at special-needs groups, such as expectant mothers.

For details, contact the Laughlin HAWC at 298-6464

Ramen Noodle Goulash

You will need:
Large skillet with lid
Measuring cup
Spatula or wooden spoon

Ingredients:
1 pound lean ground beef
One package Ramen noodles (beef or oriental flavor)
One 16-ounce package frozen oriental mixed vegetables (Sugar Snap Pea Stir-Fry)
1 cup water

Directions:
Brown ground beef in skillet. Drain off fat. Add broken up noodles, entire package of mixed vegetables, water, and flavor packet from noodles. Mix well. Cover and simmer until water is absorbed and noodles are soft. Serves 4.

Per serving:
Calories 300
Protein 22 grams
Carbohydrates 8 grams
Fat 17 grams

Cost: $1.57 per serving