Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 6
Why You’ll Love It
Summer Goulash is a delightful twist on the classic dish, incorporating fresh tomatoes and herbs to give it a vibrant summer feel. It’s quick, easy, and packed with nutrients, making it perfect for busy days when you want a meal that’s both comforting and light.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 green pepper, diced (about ½ cup)
- 1 small onion, diced (about ¾ cup)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 3 ½ cups fresh tomatoes, peeled and diced (about 4 tomatoes)
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp organic sugar
- 3 ½ to 4 cups cooked macaroni
- Handful of fresh herbs, chopped (such as parsley or basil)
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Vegetables: Add the diced onion and green pepper to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Add Garlic and Tomatoes: Add the minced garlic and diced fresh tomatoes to the skillet. Stir in the sea salt and organic sugar.
- Simmer: Let the mixture simmer for about 8-10 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down slightly but still retain some texture.
- Combine with Macaroni: Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs over the top and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with Extra Herbs: Add a sprig of fresh parsley or basil on top for a pop of color.
- Side Salad: Serve with a simple green salad or a side of grilled vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- Crusty Bread: Enjoy with a slice of crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful sauce.
Tips for Customization
- Add More Veggies: Bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini can be added to increase the vegetable content.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a spicy twist.
- Make It Vegetarian: Replace ground beef with lentils or tofu for a vegetarian version.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can use canned diced tomatoes if fresh tomatoes are not available. However, fresh tomatoes give a brighter flavor.
Q: How can I make it spicier?
A: Add more paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give it a spicy kick.
Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead and refrigerate it overnight. Combine with cooked macaroni just before serving.Summer Goulash is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed by everyone, from kids to adults. Its simplicity and flavor make it perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight meals. Give it a try and enjoy the taste of summer in every bite!
