37 One Pot Meals That Will Save Your Weeknight Dinner Plans

Protein, Protein, Protein

The most obvious choice? Add some protein. This could help you achieve your protein goals, but also includes some sustenance for a fuller meal instead of a side salad. Grilled shrimp, hard boiled eggs, salmon, steak, and chicken (grilled, cajun, barbecue, pesto—you can get creative here!) are some tasty options.

Check out this buffalo ranch pretzel chicken caesar salad from Tieghan Gerard/Half Baked Harvest or this salmon caesar salad grain bowl from The Real Food Dietitians.

​Throw In Avocado, Nuts, or Legumes

There’s nothing easier than throwing in pantry items. Toss in toasted walnuts, cashews, or pine nuts. Avocados and legumes (like chickpeas, beans, and lentils) are also a common addition — just check out this avocado crispy chickpea caesar salad by Whole and Heavenly Oven, or this southwest chicken caesar salad recipe.

​Transform It Into A Pasta Salad

What’s the foolproof way to make any meal better? Add pasta. Reach for pasta shapes such as elbow, farfalle, gemelli, or cavatappi (just check out this pasta shapes guide for more insight). This chicken caesar pasta salad by Averie Cooks utilizes farfalle, while this tortellini caesar salad adds a cheesy twist by Two Peas & Their Pod.

Don't Forget The Extra Veggies

Include more vegetables other than the lettuce. Here are some of our top veggie suggestions: cherry peppers, red onion, sweet potato, broccoli, or artichokes (this artichoke caesar-ish salad will do the trick!). If you’re a fan of brussels sprouts (don’t knock ‘em till you try ‘em), you may want to spring for this brussels sprout caesar salad recipe by The Crowded Kitchen.

Spruce Up The Lettuce

No, you don’t only have to use romaine lettuce as the greens for a caesar salad. Snag whatever you have in the fridge—spinach, arugula, microgreens—and throw them in the bowl with some caesar dressing. A great option is to actually grill the lettuce if you have one available to you. It adds a smoky flavor to the traditional recipe, like this chicken caesar salad with grilled romaine.

Turn It Into A Wrap

The simplest way to change up your go-to caesar salad is to switch around the order of ingredients. Instead of using a bowl, make these healthy chicken caesar lettuce wraps by Rachel Mansfield, or your favorite kind of tortilla wrap.

Brunch Cocktails To Make For Mother's Day 2024

Pomegranate White Tea Fizz

For the more health-conscious, a cocktail packed with pomegranates and infused with white tea. (via Brit + Co)

"Speak Now" Spritz

Get in the Swiftie spirit with a Taylor Swift cocktail that's sure to please all your girlfriends. This one has plum liqueur and Prosecco for the ultimate flavor combo — and you can't forget about the edible glitter! (via The Spritz Effect for Brit + Co)

Summer Paloma

Nothing says summer like an easy breezy brunch cocktail, and this Paloma has the yummiest mix of grapefruit soda and tequila. I like a little extra lime juice, so don't be afraid to go crazy ;). (via Brit + Co)

Cadbury Cocktail

If Mom has a sweet tooth, you *have* to whip up this dessert cocktail. It's the perfect Mother's Day treat! (via Brit + Co)

Easy Irish Coffee

Instead of getting brunch cocktails *and* coffee, combine them into this spiked Irish coffee. One-and-done! (via Brit + Co)

Strawberry And Rhubarb Bellinis

Everyone’s favorite morning cocktail gets an upgrade with fresh strawberries. Siri, play "Pink" by Lizzo! (via Brit + Co)

Mimosa Remix

Fresh fruit gives this Grapefruit Thyme Fizz, Cherry Orange Tequila Sunrise, and Sparkling Strawberry Mimosa that perfect touch of “homemade” that shows you care, without all the fuss of making a huge brunch. (via Brit + Co)

Citrus Mezcal Brunch Cocktails

Grab a bottle of mezcal and a variety of sliced citrus, flavored sparkling sodas, and a specialty “worm salt,” known as sal de gusano, tomake these mezcal cocktails with blood orange, grapefruit, orange, and lime. (via Brit + Co)

Bloody Mary Bar

Nothing says brunch quite like a Bloody Mary, with its array of veggies, pickled goodies and hot kick that'll get you ready for the day. Host Mother's Day Brunch with a Bloody Mary bar for everyone to DIY their faves. (via Brit + Co)

Frozen Blueberry Paloma

Serve up this refreshing and unique twist on a paloma that mixes fresh grapefruit juice, blueberries, lime juice, and a splash of tequila. Consider this the ultimate pre-summer sip. (via Half Baked Harvest for Brit + Co)

More Brunch Cocktail Ideas You'll Love

Rosa Raspberry Chocatini

Toast your mom to a job well done and a life well lived with this dessert cocktail. Mix equal parts Chilled Rosa Regale RedwithStoli Chocolat Razberi Vodka, and add a rasberry garnish.

Mango Ginger Mojito

Get mom ready for summer with this rum-based brunch cocktail. I'm obsessed with the bold and bright colors! (via Signature Concoctions)

Aperol Spritz Cocktail Recipe

Keep it simple, delicious, and warm-weather friendly with this 3-ingredient cocktail. (via Salt + Lavender)

Honey Blackberry Smash Mocktail

This refreshing mocktail is made with homemade blackberry syrup, fresh mint, and honey. Spike with her favorite liquor if you prefer to go boozy! (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

Salty Dog

Made with vodka, grapefruit juice, and a splash of club soda, this classic brunch cocktail is an easy and delicious way to celebrate mom. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Dirty Shirley Cocktail

Bring back fun childhood memories with mom by serving this grown-up version of the Shirley Temple. (via Culinary Hill)

Pink Sangria with Rosé Wine

This pretty-in-pink cocktail is perfect for a brunch crowd. Not feeling the grapefruit? Swap for your favorite berries instead. (via Barley & Sage)

Empress & Tonic

Serve this tart, refreshing, and delicious tonic to the color-loving mom. Just pour 2 oz Empress 1908 Ginand 3 oz Premium Tonic Water on ice in a rocks glass. Garnish with a grapefruit slice.

Spicy Watermelon Margaritas

Just four ingredients and fresh watermelon makes this brunch cocktail a favorite. (via Cozy Cravings)

St. Germain Brunch Cocktail

Feeling fancy? Mix St. Germain (an elderflower liqueur), Cocchi Americano and San Pellegrino Aranciata Rossa with crushed ice and you have a drink worthy of a Mediterranean view. (via Oh So Beautiful Paper)

Clamato Pineapple Michelada

Does mom love a Bloody Mary, but is looking something a little different? Try making her a Michelada, another savory-tomato-y cocktail! This recipe gives her a little sweet and a little savory — and a lot of yum!

Limoncello and Prosecco Cooler

A cocktail full of sunshiny limoncello and mint — yeah, your mom wants that. The raspberry ice cubes add an elegant touch. (via Creative Culinary)

Why do I always have stomach issues when traveling?

Routine can benefit our mental health, but it also benefits our physical health, too! "Stomach problems tend to flare up while traveling because our usual routines, like mealtimes and sleep patterns, get thrown off, which can disrupt digestion," Simpson says. "Plus, not drinking enough water and trying new foods or eating at odd hours can make matters worse by dehydrating us and upsetting our stomachs.

"Travel anxiety significantly affects our stomachs," she continues. "When we're anxious, our bodies release stress hormones that can disrupt digestion, potentially worsening existing gastrointestinal problems or causing new ones."

And it turns out, flying itself can also affect your gut physically. "Flying or changes in altitude can make your stomach uncomfortable by making the gas in your intestines expand, causing bloating," Simpson says. "Also, the difference in cabin pressure and oxygen levels can dehydrate you, which might worsen digestion and existing stomach problems."

How do you fix travelers stomach?

While travel day stomach problems can take you by surprise, there are a few you can do in the moment to help ease discomfort. "As a traveler with a colon disease and dietary restrictions, I always have Tylenol and digestive enzymes on hand," Tanner says. "Whenever I arrive at my destination, I try to locate the nearest juice/smoothie place to maintain the daily habits that make me feel my best at home."

"I usually bring Dramamine with me just in case I experience a rare bout of nausea, and I've recently been taking 1 teaspoon of digestive bitters before meals to help with heartburn (cute, right?) — they come in really small bottles so they're generally fine to go through security," Storck says. "The day before a long flight, I try to eat whole non-processed foods — nothing that could upset my stomach — and lots of water. I try not to drink on the plane if my stomach feels sensitive (otherwise, a glass of red helps me sleep!)"

You'll also want to be aware of dehydration on your travel day (dehydration makes everything feel worse), and that includes what kind of water you're drinking. "For those with sensitive stomachs, it's a good idea to go for bottled or filtered water while traveling because tap water safety can differ from place to place," Simpson says. "Opting for bottled water helps lower the chance of drinking contaminated water and reduces the risk of health problems."

"It's smart to be careful when sampling new foods while traveling to prevent stomach issues," Simpson continues. "Stick to dishes you're familiar with and that are fully-cooked, and avoid street food in places where cleanliness might be a concern. Also, keep an eye out for any potential allergens or foods that might not agree with you."

How to make travel easier?

Your travel day should actually start before you wake up. Just like meal prepping can set you up for an easy week of eats, travel prepping can ensure your day-of journey goes as smooth as possible. While you can't control flight delays or traffic, there are a few things you can add into your routine.

"Include stress-relief techniques in your plan and feel reassured that you have strategies in place to prevent travel-related anxiety from causing stomach issues," Simpson says. Try our Best Breathing Techniques and Daily Journal Prompts when you have a moment to spare!

"I definitely pack the day before and try to make my carry-on bag really organized (for example, I put all my chargers in a small pouch so that there aren't wires getting tangled, I pack snacks so that I don't have to spend a ton of money at the airport, etc.)," Storck says. "I also download shows or movies on to my iPad beforehand (or pack a good book) — I like having something to look forward to if it's a long flight! Simple things, but they help the day go smoothly."

"I try to plan in advance as much as possible to alleviate travel prep and travel day stress [and] I make a list of items I want to pack on my phone," Tanner says. In addition to packing plenty of snacks that are easy on her stomach, she also figures out what to eat when she gets to her location. "Depending on my flight time, I will pick up a Sweetgreen salad to eat on the plane to keep me satiated and full of greens until I can find my next whole foods meal."

Should I pack anything specific to avoid stomach problems?

It's a good idea to have natural remedies or over the counter medicine in the event you need to ease bloating or discomfort (think antidiarrheals, laxatives, or antacids). "Bring along essentials like enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules or activated charcoal tablets for bloating and discomfort, antacids for heartburn and acid reflux, and magnesium citrate or magnesium oxide supplements if you're prone to constipation," Simpson says.

"You might also want to pack dandelion or fennel tea for digestive support and hydration tablets or powders to prevent dehydration, especially in hot climates," she continues. "Just remember to check in with a healthcare professional before trying any new remedies, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications."

And to make the travel in and of itself more enjoyable, Storck has a few travel must-haves: "Headphones, comfortable clothing (big fan of black leggings, sneakers and a sweater; I'll never be a fancy plane outfit girl) and my water bottle." Tanner's must-haves include a portable phone charger, headphones, eye patches, and sunscreen.

How to eat in moderation on vacation?

We're big fans of Little Treat Culture at Brit + Co, especially if you're somewhere you've never been before. I mean, how could you visit Paris and NOT buy pastries?! Even if you have a sensitive stomach, Simpson says it's okay to indulge — as long as it's in moderation.

"Indulge in local delicacies moderately, savoring each bite and paying attention to your body's hunger and fullness signals," Simpson recommends. "Include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your meals to offset any extra calories from treats and to keep you feeling full and satisfied. Also, incorporate physical activities into your plans to burn off any additional calories consumed from indulgences."

"To avoid stomach issues while traveling, steer clear of spicy, fatty, and greasy foods," Simpson continues. "Additionally, limit alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated drinks, and ensure fruits and vegetables are thoroughly washed to prevent food-related illnesses. Lastly, maintain regular meal times to prevent overeating and refrain from skipping meals."

If you do deal with the dreaded traveler's stomach (it happens to us all!) swap your fancy meals for a few tried-and-true foods. "If you're dealing with stomach issues while traveling, stick to gentle foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast to soothe discomfort, and steer clear of foods that might worsen your symptoms," Simpson says. "Keep yourself hydrated, take time to rest and recuperate, and try relaxation methods like deep breathing or meditation to ease stress-related digestive problems. If your symptoms persist or become severe, don't hesitate to seek medical help."