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There’s nothing more comforting than ending the day with a hearty dinner. Casserole dishes provide just that. I also love knowing that her casserole recipes make more than 2 servings so my husband and I have plenty of leftovers to reheat for lunch. Plus, these recipes support a healthy gut so we can feel our best. While you might associate gut health with constipation and bloating, it actually plays a vital role in our overall health, from promoting healthy aging to improving immune function.
weekly plan
Sunday: grilled spaghetti
Monday: Cheese black bean and quinoa skillet casserole
Tuesday: Anti-inflammatory lemon salmon and orzo casserole
Wednesday: Spanakopita-style chicken and white bean casserole
Thursday: Baked shrimp and cauliflower
Friday: EatingWell Eggplant Parmesan
Sunday: Baked spaghetti
I recently rediscovered the joy of baked pasta. From the crispy noodles on top to the melting cheese, you’ll never get tired of it. This version uses whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta for more gut-friendly fiber.
Monday: Cheesy Black Bean and Quinoa Skillet Casserole
Although it’s not technically Mexican food, southwestern-inspired dishes like this always remind me of home, which makes this dish even more comforting. Loaded with vegetables like corn, onions, poblano peppers, and tomatoes, this recipe is great for gut health. Plus, quinoa and beans boost the fiber content, making this vegetarian dinner high in protein.
Tuesday: Anti-inflammatory lemon salmon and orzo casserole
Garlic, fresh dill, lemon, and capers make this casserole very flavorful. It only takes 20 minutes and the oven does the rest. Plus, omega-3-rich salmon, dark green asparagus, and vitamin D provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
Wednesday: Spanakopita-style chicken and white bean casserole
When I want to make a fancy weeknight dinner, I love making this spanakopita-inspired casserole. Plus, it makes me feel like I’m having spinach dip for dinner (Hmm!) Serve with Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad, a delicious twist on a classic dish for freshness and even more gut health.
Thursday: Shrimp and cauliflower bake
This recipe takes just 15 minutes, but you can save even more time by using pre-cut cauliflower florets and chopped onions from the produce store. And tomatoes (Yes, even canned food) and cauliflower are rich in satisfying dietary fiber that nourishes the gut microbiome. Serve with crunchy whole wheat bread drizzled with olive oil to soak up all the deliciousness.
Friday: Eating Well Eggplant Parmesan
Eggplant Parmesan is one of your favorite classic dishes, but if you don’t like the heaviness, this version is perfect for you. The breaded eggplant is grilled rather than fried, resulting in a light yet delicious dish. Commercially available tomato sauce tends to be high in salt, so we use salt-free tomato sauce that has been added with seasonings to give it a rich flavor. Serve with a basic green salad with vinaigrette for a simple and refreshing side that also boosts fiber.
I hope you all have a great week and enjoy this dinner plan. Don’t forget to add a recipe review if you try it.
