Seasonal Dinners. Week of December 15th by California Trim Rx

To help streamline your week and ensure you’re hitting your nutritional targets, this week’s meal plan is focused exclusively on dinners. Please see previous Meal Plans posted here for lunch and breakfast ideas.

We strive to assist all of our followers on their weight loss journey, and we know the profound importance of fueling your body with healthy, whole foods while on GLP-1 and GIP medications. Prioritizing protein and fiber at your largest meal (dinner) is crucial for maintaining muscle mass and supporting lasting satiety.

This plan focuses on easy prep, minimal fuss, and using accessible, affordable ingredients from our favorite spot, Trader Joe’s!

Here is a list of low carb snacks available at Trader Joe's:

Low-Carb & High-Protein Snacks at Trader Joe's.pdf

Download PDF • 97KB

Low-Carb Trader Joe's Holiday Dinner Plan & Recipe Guide: December 15th - 21st

This plan continues the focus on high-protein and high-fiber meals, utilizing different Trader Joe's products and holiday flavors for variety.

The GLP-1 Eating Strategy Reminder

• Prioritize Protein (30-40g): This is the foundation of every meal for maximum satiety.

• Fill up on Fiber: Non-starchy vegetables are your main source of volume and nutrition.

• Mindful Additions: Use flavorful, higher-carb ingredients (like zest, certain sauces, or small portions of black bean pasta) as accents only.

Recipes

Monday, December 15th: Citrus-Ginger Pork Stir-Fry

Focus: Lean pork protein and high-volume, quick-cooking greens.

Ingredients:

• Trader Joe's Fully Cooked Pork Tenderloin (sliced, 30-40g portion)

• 1 bunch fresh Bok Choy (chopped)

• 1 tsp fresh or jarred Ginger (minced)

• 1 tsp Olive Oil

• Dash of low-sodium Soy Sauce or Coconut Aminos

• Orange Zest (use a tiny pinch for holiday flavor only)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add the ginger and cook for 30 seconds.

2. Add the chopped Bok Choy and stir-fry until tender-crisp (3-4 minutes). Add the soy sauce/coconut aminos.

3. Add the pre-cooked pork slices to the skillet and heat through.

4. Remove from heat and garnish the dish with a tiny pinch of fresh orange zest for a bright, seasonal aroma. Serve immediately.

Tuesday, December 16th: Tuna Salad Stuffed Peppers

Focus: Affordable, quick seafood protein and carb-swap for delivery.

Ingredients:

• 1 can Trader Joe's Wild-Caught Canned Tuna (drained)

• 2 Tbsp Mayonnaise or Greek Yogurt

• 1 tsp Dijon Mustard

• 1/2 Red or Yellow Bell Pepper (cut in half lengthwise)

• 1 cup Organic Shredded Green and Red Cabbage (side salad)

• Salt, Pepper, and optional Everything But The Bagel seasoning.

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the drained tuna with mayo/yogurt, mustard, salt, and pepper until combined.

2. Use the half bell pepper as a "boat" and scoop the tuna salad inside.

3. Serve alongside the shredded cabbage for extra fiber.

Wednesday, December 17th: Ground Beef & Mushroom Lettuce Wraps

Focus: Ground meat protein and a light, crunchy low-carb wrap base.

Ingredients:

• 4-5 oz Trader Joe's Grass-Fed Ground Beef

• 1 cup sliced Mushrooms (crimini or shiitake)

• 1/4 cup diced Onion

• Large Butter Lettuce Leaves (for wrapping)

• 1 Tbsp low-sodium Soy Sauce or Coconut Aminos

• 1 tsp Chili Onion Crunch

• Olive Oil

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet with a dash of olive oil. Drain excess fat.

2. Add the sliced mushrooms and diced onion to the beef. Cook until the vegetables are soft and the mushrooms have released their liquid.

3. Stir in the soy sauce/coconut aminos and season lightly.

4. Spoon the beef mixture into the large butter lettuce leaves. Top with a small amount of Chili Onion Crunch before wrapping and serving.

Thursday, December 18th: Italian Chicken Sausage with Roasted Asparagus

Focus: Pre-seasoned protein for flavor and a quick-roasting vegetable.

Ingredients:

• 2 links Trader Joe's Fully Cooked Chicken Sausage (Italian or Garlic Herb, sliced)

• 1 bunch fresh Asparagus

• 1 Tbsp Olive Oil

• Everything But The Bagel seasoning

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Toss the asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet.

3. Slice the chicken sausage and add it to the same baking sheet.

4. Roast for 10–12 minutes until the asparagus is tender and the sausage is heated through and slightly browned.

5. Sprinkle the dish with Everything But The Bagel seasoning before serving.

Friday, December 19th: Black Bean Rotini with Garlic-Spinach Sauce

Focus: Low-carb "pasta" satisfaction with extreme portion control and added protein.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup Trader Joe's Black Bean Rotini (dry measure, for fiber/carb accent)

• 1/2 cup high-protein Cottage Cheese (blended smooth, or use Greek yogurt)

• 2 cups fresh Spinach

• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)

• 1/4 cup diced Tomato (optional, limit carb count)

• Olive Oil, Salt, Pepper

Instructions:

1. Cook the Black Bean Rotini according to package directions. Drain and set aside. This portion is intentionally small.

2. In a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese until completely smooth and creamy to create a high-protein, low-carb sauce base.

3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Add the optional diced tomato.

4. Add the blended cottage cheese "sauce" and the cooked rotini to the skillet. Stir to coat and warm through. Season with salt and pepper.

Saturday, December 20th: Festive Keto Charcuterie Plate

Focus: Grazing/social meal focused purely on protein and fresh vegetables.

Ingredients:

• Trader Joe's Prosciutto OR Salami (30-40g protein portion)

• Small cubes of a hard Cheese (e.g., Unexpected Cheddar, limit portion)

• Celery sticks (for dipping/crunch)

• Slices of Cucumber or Radishes

• 1 cup Arugula or Simple Salad Greens

• Small amount of light Vinaigrette (olive oil + vinegar)

Instructions:

1. Arrange the meats and cheeses on a small board or plate.

2. Place the celery, cucumber slices, and radishes alongside the protein.

3. Toss the arugula or salad greens with a minimal amount of light vinaigrette.

4. Serve as a satisfying, assembly-only meal. Avoid crackers or bread.

Sunday, December 21st: Zero-Bean Turkey Chili

Focus: Comfort food classic, rebuilt for low-carb and high protein.

Ingredients:

• 5 oz Trader Joe's Ground Turkey (dark or white meat)

• 1/2 can crushed Tomatoes (low-carb/sugar version if available)

• 1/2 cup diced Bell Peppers (any color)

• 1/4 cup diced Onion

• Chili Powder, Cumin, Smoked Paprika (to taste)

• 1-2 Tbsp Greek Yogurt OR 1 Tbsp Shredded Cheddar (for topping, use sparingly)

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground turkey in a pot, drain excess fat.

2. Add the bell peppers and onions; cook until soft (about 5 minutes).

3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and all the chili spices. Add a splash of water if the chili is too thick.

4. Simmer for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Serve hot. Top with a small dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for tang and extra flavor.

Shopping list.pdf

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Don't Forget the Exercise!

While nutrition is paramount on GLP-1 and GIP therapy, remember the importance of movement. Whether it’s a daily brisk walk or your dedicated strength training routine, maintaining or building muscle mass is crucial for boosting your metabolism and ensuring sustainable, long-term success.

We hope this dinner-focused plan makes your week easier and tastier! As always, we are here to support your journey.

This meal plan is a testament to how delicious and satisfying healthy eating can be, especially when combined with the benefits of your GLP-1 medication. Remember, at California Trim Rx, our team is here to support you every step of the way. Prioritize these nutrient-dense foods, stay hydrated, and embrace the journey to a healthier, more radiant you!

Ready to take the next step in your health journey? Contact California Trim Rx today to learn more about personalized support and how we can help you achieve your wellness goals.

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