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Dynamic Entree Duos

Combining two different foods can often create a very tasty blend of flavors. Some of these combos are very well known: Bacon and eggs. Tortilla chips and salsa. Burgers and fries. Spaghetti and meatballs. The problem with these foods when someone is working on their weight is twofold: 1) These foods are definitely not “in the box” in Phase 1, and 2) they can represent a significant source of calories in Phase 2.

Fortunately, many HMR foods go together just as well as some of your old favorites. Let’s take a look at some entree + entree combinations that have become HMR classics.

The first combination I fell in love with was Chili Mac. For those who are unfamiliar with this, Chili Mac is an HMR Turkey Chili Entree mixed with an HMR Chicken Pasta Parmesan Entree. This is true comfort food – hearty and delicious.

The simplest way to make entree + entree combinations is to mix two different entrees together, heat in a microwave, and enjoy. For those who want to go “old school” they can be heated in the oven as well. 350 degrees for 20-30 minutes usually does it. In fact, heating the entrees in the oven can thicken them a bit, plus bring out subtle flavors you might not get when using a microwave.

So, which entrees taste good together? Well, it can be any of them, depending on your personal preference. Here are some combinations that come up a lot when recipes are shared:

Turkey Chili + Chicken Pasta Parmesan
Beef Stroganoff + Mushroom Risotto
Cheese and Basil Ravioli + Lasagna with Meat Sauce
Turkey Chili + Mushroom Risotto
Chicken Pasta Parmesan + Chicken Creole
Pasta Fagioli + Vegetable Stew with Beef
Vegetable Stew with Beef + Five-Bean Casserole
Turkey Chili + Five-Bean Casserole
Beef Pot Roast + Vegetable Stew with Beef
Mexican Style Enchiladas + Turkey Chili
Chicken with Barbecue Sauce + Turkey Chili
Savory Chicken + Mushroom Risotto

If you are on the Decision-Free® diet, add any herb or spice you’d like. If you are on the Healthy Solutions® diet or in Phase 2, add your favorite vegetables.

If you have an entree + entree combination recipe of your own that you would like to share, please post it here.
 

 

by KeithVanGasken on 09/19/2011 | Share Story With a Friend

tags: Weight-Loss, HMR, Recipes, Diet Tools, motivation, in the box, strategies

About the Author

Keith Van Gasken

Keith Van Gasken began obesity treatment in a clinic setting in 1982, and has been with HMR since 1992. Roles have included health educator & mentor, as well as program and product development, with a special affinity for product & recipe development. He has maintained a 100-lb. weight loss since 1982.

Comments (10) Post a comment
I'm thinking this might be a great HMRdiet Forum question! What do you thing about posting this question there - I bet you'll get a La lot of ideas.
by KeithVanGasken on 09/27/2011
Keith, For my customers who stick to the 4 veggie entrees, we need some veggie combo ideas. Any sugsetions?
by McKinneyDiabetes1234 on 09/27/2011
I like combining Chicken with BBQ Sauce (cut chicken into bite-size pieces) with the Five Bean Casserole. I'ts a hearty serving of BBQ baked beans with chicken.
by Melissa on 09/21/2011
I like combining the Chicken with BBQ Sauce (cut chicken into bite-size pieces) with the Five Bean Casserole. It's like a hearty serving of Barbecued Baked Beans with chicken.
by Melissa on 09/21/2011
Desiree, I'm with you: I just submitted that (didn't see your post). turkey chili + chicken creole is "in the box" red beans and rice; one of my favorites, too!
by NancyRNfit on 09/21/2011
I love all these entree + entree ideas people are sharing. Keep them coming!
by KeithVanGasken on 09/20/2011
one of my favorites is Lasagna with Meat Sauce cut up and mixed in with the Mushroom Risotto....I call it Italian Goulash
by LynneH on 09/20/2011
I like the Mexican style enchilada, diced up, mixed with the chicken creole. The sauce from the enchiladas makes the creole take on a Spanish rice flavor. Since I'm on Healthy Solutions, I usually put this combination over a tossed salad with salsa for "dressing", a TBS of fat free sour cream, and a sprinkling of chives. Occasionally, a squirt of fresh lime juice on the lettuce as well. Decision free could just leave off the salad. It's yummy.
by Luvs2cook on 09/19/2011
Yummm, that sounds good too
by KeithVanGasken on 09/19/2011
Keith, you've covered a lot of the combinations--but I also like Turkey Chili with Chicken Creole! Very filling!!
by DesireeRogers on 09/19/2011