Rex Nutrition LogoRex Nutrition

Savory 7-Day Gourmet Meal Plan for Weight Gain: Quick & Easy Recipes for Beginner Chefs!

Posted on August 6, 2024

Age: 18
Male
Target Time: 12 weeks
Activity Level: Sedentary (office job)
Low Activity
30-Minute Meals
Beginner Recipes
Meal Variety: Moderate variety
Calorie Management
Personalized Meal Plan

This meal plan is tailored to support your goal of gaining weight steadily while accommodating your busy and sedentary lifestyle.

With a mix of hearty breakfasts, energizing lunches, and satisfying dinners, you'll find each day offers a delightful balance of flavors and nutrients that are easy enough for a beginner chef to prepare in under 30 minutes.

Cover image
AI meal plans: Where technology meets taste.

The Savory Journey: A 7-Day Gourmet Meal Plan for the Aspiring Chef

At 18, life is a whirlwind of classes, socializing, and figuring out who you are. Amidst this delightful chaos, maintaining a healthy diet can sometimes feel like a Herculean task—especially if your cooking experience is still emerging. Enter the Savory 7-Day Gourmet Balanced Meal Plan, specifically designed not just to tantalize your taste buds but to provide critical nutritional support as you strive to gain weight thoughtfully and sustainably. Imagine this: Each day of the week unfolds a new culinary adventure—one that is absolutely perfect for a beginner chef who might still be mastering the art of scrambling an egg or perfecting the toast to accompany it. This meal plan is more than just a collection of recipes; it’s a companion for your journey towards delicious and nutritious eating. The beauty of this plan lies in its simplicity and flavor—each dish can be prepared in 30 minutes or less, fitting snugly into your busy life. Day one kicks off with classic Scrambled Eggs paired with golden-brown toast, a breakfast that not only graces your plate but also fuels your day with protein and carbs. The meal plan emphasizes balance; for lunch, you delight in a Turkey and Cheese Sandwich that brings together your preferred flavors in a quick and satisfying bite. And by dinner, you sit down to a well-rounded dish of Grilled Chicken with Steamed Vegetables, a gentle reminder that health can also be comforting.

Understanding the Importance of Personalization in Meal Planning

But why is meal planning essential, especially for youth on the cusp of adulthood? At this vibrant age, when the body is still growing and developing, the importance of nutrient-rich meals cannot be overstated. A custom meal planner like Savory 7-Day caters not just to dietary needs but also to individual lifestyles and preferences, making healthy choices more accessible and enjoyable. Let’s talk numbers: with an impressive daily calorie intake of around 2892 calories, this plan strikes a harmonious balance between gaining weight and feeling satisfied. The thoughtfully curated meals—ranging from the energy-boosting Greek Yogurt with Honey and Berries on Day 2 to the hearty Spaghetti and Meatballs on the same day—ensure you won’t ever feel deprived. Instead, each bite underscores how delightful healthy eating can actually be.

Variety and Flavor: Key Ingredients to a Successful Meal Plan

Every meal in this gourmet plan introduces new flavors while keeping comfort at its core, ensuring something fresh for your palate throughout the week. Picture a breakfast of Oatmeal with Bananas and Nuts that mingles natural sweetness with hearty texture, followed by a vibrant Quinoa Salad with Veggies for lunch, loaded with colors and crunch. On Day 4, grow bolder with a Baked Salmon paired with asparagus—a dish that not only pleases the eyes but offers omega-3s that your body craves. As the days progress and your confidence in the kitchen blossoms, watch as you master these easy yet impressive meals that’ll garner praise from family and friends alike.

Elevate Your Culinary Skills While Eating Healthy

The Savory 7-Day Gourmet Meal Plan lends itself perfectly to fostering a love for cooking—especially for those starting out or on a budget. One week of mixed dishes, from Pork Chops with Mashed Potatoes on Day 5 to a delightful balance of Shrimp Tacos with Slaw on Day 6, invites not just nutrition into your life but also the joy of discovering new recipes and techniques. Feel empowered as you nail the art of pancake flipping on Day 7, accompanied by syrup that dances on your tongue! Ultimately, this journey enhances more than just your culinary skills; it cultivates a more profound respect and understanding of what it means to eat well.

A Lifestyle Change, Not Just a Meal Plan

Gaining weight in a healthy, balanced manner is about more than merely following a meal plan. It’s about embracing a lifestyle that acknowledges the importance of diverse nutrition—one that fuels the body while also focusing on the delightful experience of food. As you embark on this 7-day culinary adventure, notice how the routine of cooking and eating mindfully contributes to a healthier relationship with food, encouraging you to listen to what your body truly needs.

Conclusion: A Guiding Light on Your Nutritional Journey

So why wait? Dive into the world of culinary delights with the Savory 7-Day Gourmet Balanced Meal Plan. It’s your soundtrack to healthy living, personalized and crafted with you in mind. Whether you’re a beginner just stepping into the kitchen or someone looking to refine their skills, this meal plan serves as your guiding light, helping you build confidence, improve your cooking skills, and savor each nourishing meal. Let each day be an exploration of flavor and nutrition, propelling you toward your goals while allowing your love for food to flourish.

From the classic comfort of Scrambled Eggs with Toast on Day 1 to the mouthwatering Shrimp Tacos with Slaw on Day 6, this plan provides a moderate variety and introduces 12 new meals across the week, ensuring that your taste buds never get bored.

AI meal plans: Finally, a smart assistant that won’t judge your snack habits.

Each carefully selected dish—from the protein-packed Grilled Chicken with Steamed Vegetables to the indulgent Roast Beef with Roasted Potatoes—aligns with your dietary preferences, making it a seamless fit for your lifestyle as you work towards your target weight

Additional Insights

This meal plan is designed to provide balanced nutrition while being easy to prepare. Each meal is crafted with fresh ingredients and offers a variety of flavors to keep your taste buds excited.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cook, these recipes are straightforward and come with detailed instructions to ensure you can follow along with ease. Enjoy the process of cooking and the satisfaction of a well-prepared meal.

Remember, the key to a successful meal plan is consistency and variety. Make sure to try out different recipes and adjust them according to your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Additionally, each meal plan is tailored to meet specific dietary requirements, ensuring that you get the right balance of nutrients. From protein-packed breakfasts to fiber-rich dinners, every meal is designed to support your health and wellness goals.

Our meal plans also include tips on how to make the most of your ingredients, reducing waste and saving money. Learn how to store your food properly, make use of leftovers, and create delicious meals with minimal effort.

We also provide insights into the nutritional benefits of each ingredient used in the meal plans. Understand how each component contributes to your overall health, from boosting your immune system to improving your digestion.

Monday

Breakfast

Greek Yogurt with Honey and Berries

Calories: 723

Ingredients:

  • Greek yogurt 200g
  • Honey 20g
  • Mixed berries 30g

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Spoon 200g of Greek yogurt into a bowl.
  2. Step 2: Drizzle 20g of honey over the yogurt.
  3. Step 3: Top with 30g of mixed berries (e.g., blueberries, strawberries, raspberries).
  4. Step 4: Stir gently to combine or enjoy as is.
10 minutes
Easy

Lunch

Quinoa Salad with Veggies

Calories: 867

Ingredients:

  • Quinoa 100g
  • Cucumber 50g
  • Cherry tomatoes 50g
  • Bell pepper 50g
  • Red onion 50g
  • Feta cheese 50g
  • Olive oil 10g

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Rinse 100g of quinoa under cold water.
  2. Step 2: Cook quinoa in a pot with 300ml of water. Bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
  3. Step 3: While quinoa is cooking, chop 50g of cucumber, 50g of cherry tomatoes, 50g of bell pepper, and 50g of red onion.
  4. Step 4: Combine cooked quinoa, chopped veggies, 50g of feta cheese, and 10g of olive oil in a bowl.
  5. Step 5: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
15 minutes
Easy

Dinner

Spaghetti and Meatballs

Calories: 1282

Ingredients:

  • Spaghetti 150g
  • Ground beef 200g
  • Breadcrumbs 30g
  • Parsley 10g
  • Egg 1
  • Olive oil 10g
  • Marinara sauce 200g
  • Parmesan cheese 10g
  • Bread crumbs 30g

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook 150g of spaghetti according to package instructions.
  2. Step 2: In a bowl, mix 200g of ground beef with 30g of breadcrumbs, 10g of parsley, 1 egg, salt, and pepper.
  3. Step 3: Form the mixture into small balls.
  4. Step 4: Heat 10g of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook meatballs until browned on all sides, about 10 minutes.
  5. Step 5: Add 200g of marinara sauce to the meatballs. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
  6. Step 6: Serve meatballs and sauce over cooked spaghetti. Sprinkle with 10g of grated parmesan cheese.
25 minutes
Easy

Tuesday

Breakfast

Oatmeal with Bananas and Nuts

Calories: 810

Ingredients:

  • Rolled oats 1 cup
  • Banana 1 medium
  • Chopped nuts 2 tablespoons

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a small pot.
  2. Step 2: Add 1 cup of rolled oats and reduce heat to a simmer.
  3. Step 3: Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats are soft.
  4. Step 4: Slice 1 medium banana and add it to the pot.
  5. Step 5: Add 2 tablespoons of chopped nuts (like almonds or walnuts).
  6. Step 6: Mix everything well and serve warm.
10 minutes
Easy

Lunch

Chicken Caesar Salad

Calories: 1012

Ingredients:

  • Chicken breast 150g
  • Romaine lettuce 3 cups
  • Caesar dressing 2 tablespoons
  • Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup
  • Croutons 1/2 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Grill 150g of chicken breast until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes per side.
  2. Step 2: Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Step 3: In a large salad bowl, combine 3 cups of romaine lettuce, 2 tablespoons of Caesar dressing, and the cooked chicken.
  4. Step 4: Add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup of croutons.
  5. Step 5: Toss everything together until evenly mixed.
  6. Step 6: Serve immediately.
12 minutes
Easy

Dinner

Beef Stir-fry with Rice

Calories: 1070

Ingredients:

  • Jasmine rice 1 cup
  • Vegetable oil 2 tablespoons
  • Beef 250g
  • Mixed vegetables 1 cup
  • Soy sauce 2 tablespoons

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Cook 1 cup of jasmine rice according to the package instructions.
  2. Step 2: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
  3. Step 3: Add 250g of thinly sliced beef and stir-fry until browned, about 5 minutes.
  4. Step 4: Add 1 cup of mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots) and cook for another 5-7 minutes.
  5. Step 5: Stir in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and cook for another 2 minutes.
  6. Step 6: Serve the beef stir-fry over the cooked rice.
18 minutes
Easy

Wednesday

Breakfast

Smoothie with Spinach, Banana, and Protein Powder

Calories: 723

Ingredients:

  • Fresh Spinach 2 cups
  • Banana 2 medium
  • Protein Powder 2 scoops
  • Almond Milk 2 cups

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Add 2 cups of fresh spinach to the blender.
  2. Step 2: Peel and add 2 medium bananas.
  3. Step 3: Add 2 scoops of protein powder.
  4. Step 4: Pour in 2 cups of almond milk.
  5. Step 5: Blend until smooth and creamy.
  6. Step 6: Pour the smoothie into a glass and serve immediately.
10 minutes
Easy

Lunch

Tuna Salad Sandwich

Calories: 867

Ingredients:

  • Canned Tuna 1 can
  • Mayonnaise 1/4 cup
  • Celery 1 stalk
  • Lemon Juice 1 tablespoon
  • Whole-Grain Bread 2 slices
  • Lettuce 1 leaf
  • Tomato 1 slice

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Drain one can of tuna and place it in a bowl.
  2. Step 2: Add 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, 1 chopped celery stalk, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Mix well.
  3. Step 3: Toast 2 slices of whole-grain bread.
  4. Step 4: Spread the tuna salad onto one slice of bread.
  5. Step 5: Top with lettuce and slice of tomato, and then place the other bread slice on top.
  6. Step 6: Cut the sandwich in half and serve.
15 minutes
Easy

Dinner

Baked Salmon with Asparagus

Calories: 1302

Ingredients:

  • Salmon Fillet 6 ounces
  • Olive Oil 2 tablespoons
  • Lemon 1/2
  • Salt to taste
  • Black Pepper to taste
  • Garlic Powder a pinch
  • Asparagus 1 pound

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Step 2: Place a 6-ounce salmon fillet on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Step 3: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil and juice of half a lemon over the salmon.
  4. Step 4: Season the salmon with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder.
  5. Step 5: Lay 1 pound of trimmed asparagus next to the salmon and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
  6. Step 6: Bake in the oven for 20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  7. Step 7: Serve the salmon and asparagus together on a plate.
25 minutes
Easy

Thursday

Breakfast

Avocado Toast

Calories: 722

Ingredients:

  • Whole-grain bread 2 slices
  • Avocado 1 medium (200g)
  • Lemon juice 1 tsp
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Toast two slices of whole-grain bread until golden brown.
  2. Step 2: While the bread is toasting, cut one avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh into a bowl.
  3. Step 3: Mash the avocado with a fork until you reach your desired consistency.
  4. Step 4: Season the mashed avocado with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice to taste.
  5. Step 5: Spread the seasoned mashed avocado evenly over the toasted bread slices.
  6. Step 6: Optional: Add a drizzle of olive oil, chili flakes, or a handful of cherry tomatoes as toppings.
10 minutes
Easy

Lunch

Chicken Wrap

Calories: 869

Ingredients:

  • Whole-wheat tortilla 1 large
  • Cooked chicken breast 150g
  • Greek yogurt 30g
  • Mustard 1 tsp
  • Mixed greens 1 handful
  • Shredded carrot 1/4 cup
  • Cucumber a few slices
  • Olive oil 1 tbsp

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Warm a whole-wheat tortilla wrap in a skillet over medium heat for about 1 minute on each side.
  2. Step 2: While the tortilla is warming up, chop 150g of cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Step 3: Mix the chicken pieces with 30g of Greek yogurt and 1 tsp of mustard.
  4. Step 4: Lay the tortilla flat on a plate and spread the chicken mixture evenly on the center of the tortilla.
  5. Step 5: Top with a handful of mixed greens, 1/4 cup of shredded carrot, and a few slices of cucumber.
  6. Step 6: Drizzle with a little olive oil, roll the wrap tightly, and slice it in half to serve.
10 minutes
Easy

Dinner

Pork Chops with Mashed Potatoes

Calories: 1302

Ingredients:

  • Pork chops 400g (2 pieces)
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • Garlic powder a pinch
  • Olive oil 1 tbsp
  • Potatoes 300g
  • Butter 2 tbsp
  • Milk 1/4 cup
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Step 2: Season two pork chops (200g each) with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder.
  3. Step 3: Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Step 4: Sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
  5. Step 5: Transfer the pork chops to a baking sheet and place them in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until fully cooked.
  6. Step 6: Meanwhile, peel and chop 300g of potatoes into small pieces.
  7. Step 7: Boil the potatoes in a pot of salted water for about 10-15 minutes until tender.
  8. Step 8: Drain the potatoes and mash them with 2 tbsp of butter and 1/4 cup of milk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Step 9: Serve the pork chops alongside the mashed potatoes and garnish with some fresh parsley if desired.
25 minutes
Easy

Friday

Breakfast

Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie

Calories: 725

Ingredients:

  • Banana 1 large (120g)
  • Peanut Butter 2 tablespoons (32g)
  • Milk 1 cup (240g)
  • Honey 1 tablespoon (21g)
  • Ice Handful

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Peel the banana and break it into smaller pieces.
  2. Step 2: Add the banana pieces to a blender.
  3. Step 3: Add 2 tablespoons of peanut butter to the blender.
  4. Step 4: Pour in 1 cup of milk (or a dairy-free alternative if preferred).
  5. Step 5: Add 1 tablespoon of honey for sweetness.
  6. Step 6: Add a handful of ice cubes to the blender.
  7. Step 7: Blend until smooth and creamy.
  8. Step 8: Pour into a glass and enjoy!
10 minutes
Easy

Lunch

Turkey Club Sandwich

Calories: 900

Ingredients:

  • Whole-Grain Bread 3 slices (75g)
  • Mayonnaise 2 tablespoons (30g)
  • Lettuce 3 leaves (15g)
  • Cooked Turkey Breast 60g
  • Tomato 2 slices (30g)
  • Bacon 2 slices (34g)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Toast 3 slices of whole-grain bread until golden brown.
  2. Step 2: Spread mayonnaise on one side of each slice of bread.
  3. Step 3: Place a few lettuce leaves on the bottom slice.
  4. Step 4: Add 2 slices of cooked turkey breast on top of the lettuce.
  5. Step 5: Add 2 slices of tomato over the turkey.
  6. Step 6: Layer 2 slices of bacon over the tomato.
  7. Step 7: Top with another slice of bread, mayonnaise side down.
  8. Step 8: Repeat layering ingredients (lettuce, turkey, tomato, bacon) and top with the last slice of bread.
  9. Step 9: Cut the sandwich into quarters and serve.
10 minutes
Easy

Dinner

Shrimp Tacos with Slaw

Calories: 1200

Ingredients:

  • Shrimp 200g
  • Olive Oil 1 tablespoon (14g)
  • Chili Powder 1 teaspoon (3g)
  • Cumin 1/2 teaspoon (1g)
  • Shredded Cabbage 200g
  • Carrot 1 large (72g)
  • Lime Juice 2 tablespoons (30g)
  • Small Tortillas 8 (240g)
  • Sour Cream 4 tablespoons (60g)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Peel and devein 200g of shrimp, then pat them dry.
  2. Step 2: In a bowl, mix the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon chili powder, and 1/2 teaspoon cumin.
  3. Step 3: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
  4. Step 4: In another bowl, prepare the slaw by mixing 200g of shredded cabbage, 1 grated carrot, and 2 tablespoons of lime juice.
  5. Step 5: Heat 8 small tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until warm.
  6. Step 6: Assemble the tacos by placing a few shrimp on each tortilla, topping with slaw, and adding a dollop of sour cream.
  7. Step 7: Optional: Garnish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
25 minutes
Easy

Saturday

Breakfast

Pancakes with Maple Syrup

Calories: 723

Ingredients:

  • flour 150g
  • sugar 10g
  • baking powder 10g
  • salt pinch
  • milk 100ml
  • egg 1
  • butter 10g
  • maple syrup 20ml

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: In a bowl, mix 150g of flour, 10g of sugar, 10g of baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
  2. Step 2: In another bowl, whisk 100ml of milk with 1 egg and 10g of melted butter.
  3. Step 3: Combine the wet and dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
  4. Step 4: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and pour 60ml of the batter to form pancakes.
  5. Step 5: Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook the other side until golden brown.
  6. Step 6: Serve with 20ml of maple syrup.
10 minutes
Easy

Lunch

Veggie Burger

Calories: 867

Ingredients:

  • chickpeas 200g
  • onions 50g
  • garlic 1 clove
  • breadcrumbs 10g
  • salt to taste
  • pepper to taste
  • whole wheat bun 1
  • lettuce 10g
  • tomato 20g
  • cheese slice 20g

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: In a bowl, mash 200g of cooked chickpeas with a fork until they reach a rough paste consistency.
  2. Step 2: Mix in 50g of finely chopped onions, 1 clove of minced garlic, and 10g of breadcrumbs. Make sure the breadcrumbs are gluten-free if necessary.
  3. Step 3: Add salt and pepper to taste, then shape the mixture into patties of equal size.
  4. Step 4: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown.
  5. Step 5: Toast 1 whole wheat bun. Assemble the burger by placing a chickpea patty on the bottom bun, followed by a leaf of lettuce, a slice of tomato, and a slice of cheese (use dairy-free cheese if needed). Cover with the top bun and serve.
10 minutes
Easy

Dinner

Roast Beef with Roasted Potatoes

Calories: 1302

Ingredients:

  • beef 200g
  • salt to taste
  • pepper to taste
  • olive oil 10g
  • potatoes 200g
  • rosemary to taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
  2. Step 2: Season 200g of beef with salt, pepper, and 10g of olive oil.
  3. Step 3: Roast in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until desired doneness.
  4. Step 4: Cut 200g of potatoes into wedges, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and rosemary.
  5. Step 5: Roast the potatoes in the oven for about 20 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Step 6: Serve the beef with roasted potatoes.
10 minutes (preparation) + 20 minutes (cooking time)
Easy

Enhance Your Health with AI Meal Planning at Rex.Fit

Embrace the convenience of AI meal planning to enrich your dietary experience and meet your wellness objectives. Rex.Fit is your partner in crafting a nutritious meal plan that aligns with your taste and supports your fitness journey:

  • Custom AI Meal Plans: Experience the benefits of free meal planning with Rex.Fit Meal Planner. Our AI-driven platform generates personalized weekly meal plans that cater to your dietary preferences and health goals, making mealtime both enjoyable and goal-oriented.
  • Simple Food Ordering: Rex.Fit simplifies your grocery shopping with easy food ordering. Get all the ingredients for your meal plans delivered, saving you time and hassle every week.
  • Expert Virtual Coaching: Leverage Rex.Fit's virtual coaching for professional advice on integrating your preferred dishes into a balanced diet and sustaining a dynamic lifestyle.
  • Insightful AI Body Scanning: Utilize Rex.Fit's AI-powered body scanner for comprehensive body composition analysis, allowing you to see the effects of various foods on your health and fitness progress.

Explore Rex.Fit's innovative solutions to support your health and wellness at Rex.Fit.

Relevant Links: