Seasonal Dinners. Week of December 22nd by California Trim Rx

California Trim Rx: Low-Carb & High-Protein Holiday Guide (Dec 22nd - 28th)

This nutritional guide is designed to support the goals of patients utilizing GLP-1 medications, prioritizing protein intake, fiber, and smaller, highly nutrient-dense portions, especially during the busy holiday week.

🥗 The California Trim Rx Nutritional Strategy

The following principles are essential when managing appetite and maximizing satiety on GLP-1 therapy:

1. Protein First (30-40g Goal): Every meal is anchored by lean protein. Protein slows digestion and helps prevent muscle loss, which is crucial during significant weight change.

2. Fiber is Fuel: Non-starchy vegetables are the primary source of carbohydrates and volume. This aids digestion and enhances the feeling of fullness without adding unnecessary calories.

3. Hydration is Key: Increased protein and fiber intake require consistent water consumption to prevent constipation and support metabolism.

4. Mindful Portions: Listen to your body’s early satiety cues. If a portion is listed as 4 oz, and you feel full at 2 oz, stop eating. Leftovers are built into the plan.

5. Smart Holiday Swaps: We swap traditional high-carb holiday sides (potatoes, stuffing, pie crusts) for low-carb, flavor-rich alternatives.

   
   

4 Versatile Recipes for the Week of December 22nd

These four recipes provide distinct flavor profiles and are designed to be rotated throughout the week for maximum flexibility.

Recipe A: Everything Bagel Chicken & Broccoli

Focus: Quick prep, lean protein, and a satisfying, savory flavor profile.

Ingredient	Trader Joe's Item / Portion
Protein	4-5 oz Trader Joe’s Cooked Sliced Chicken Breast
Fiber	2 cups fresh Broccoli florets
Fat/Flavor	1 Tbsp Olive Oil
Seasoning	1 tsp Trader Joe's Everything But The Bagel Seasoning

Instructions:

1. Steam or lightly boil the broccoli florets until tender-crisp.

2. While the broccoli cooks, sauté the pre-cooked chicken slices in olive oil until heated through.

3. Toss the warm broccoli and chicken together.

4. Immediately before serving, sprinkle generously with the Everything But The Bagel seasoning and a pinch of salt.

   
   

Recipe B: Asian Egg Roll in a Bowl

Focus: Comfort food rebuilt: high-fiber vegetable base, ground lean protein.

Ingredient	Trader Joe's Item / Portion
Protein	4-5 oz Trader Joe's Ground Chicken or Ground Turkey
Fiber Base	2 cups Trader Joe's Shredded Cabbage Mix (or Broccoli Slaw)
Flavor	1 Tbsp Low-Sodium Soy Sauce or Coconut Aminos
Fat/Spice	1 tsp Trader Joe's Chili Onion Crunch

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground meat in a skillet. Drain any excess fat.

2. Add the shredded cabbage mix and sauté for 5–7 minutes until the cabbage begins to wilt.

3. Stir in the soy sauce/coconut aminos and season lightly (add ginger powder if desired).

4. Serve the mixture topped with a small amount of Chili Onion Crunch for texture and heat.

   
   

Recipe C: Salmon with Pesto Cauliflower Rice

Focus: Essential Omega-3 fats, flavor-packed low-carb grain swap.

Ingredient	Trader Joe's Item / Portion
Protein	4-5 oz Trader Joe's Premium Salmon Fillet
Fiber Swap	1 cup Trader Joe's Frozen Cauliflower Rice
Flavor Base	1 tsp Trader Joe's Vegan Kale, Cashew & Basil Pesto (use sparingly)
Side	1 cup Fresh Spinach (sautéed)

Instructions:

1. Cook the salmon (pan-sear or bake) until desired doneness.

2. While the salmon cooks, microwave or sauté the cauliflower rice until tender.

3. Remove the cauliflower rice from the heat and immediately stir in the pesto until lightly coated. Use only enough for flavor, as pesto is higher in fat/calories.

4. Sauté the fresh spinach quickly in a separate pan until wilted.

5. Serve the salmon over the pesto cauliflower rice with the sautéed spinach on the side.

   
   

Recipe D: Holiday Leftover Reset (Turkey/Ham Lettuce Cups)

Focus: Utilizing holiday meal leftovers in a clean, portable, low-carb format.

Ingredient	Trader Joe's Item / Portion
Protein	4-5 oz Cooked Turkey OR Ham (diced from holiday meal)
Fiber	Large Butter Lettuce Leaves (for wrapping)
Crunch	1/4 cup finely chopped Celery and Chives
Sauce	1 Tbsp Greek Yogurt mixed with Dijon Mustard

Instructions:

1. Shred or dice the leftover turkey or ham (ensure it's lean, avoid heavily glazed pieces).

2. In a bowl, mix the protein with the chopped celery, chives, Greek yogurt, and Dijon mustard for a light, binder-free salad.

3. Spoon the protein mixture into the center of the butter lettuce leaves to create low-carb wraps.

   
   

Flexible Holiday Scheduling Suggestion

Use these four recipes to cover your main dinner meals, aiming for 4–5 large portions of the recipes to last the week.

Trader Joe's Low-Carb Shopping List (Dec 22nd - 28th).pdf

Download PDF • 58KB

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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