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Unlock Your Cooking Potential: A 7-Day Gourmet Meal Plan for Muscle Gain That Even Beginners Can Master!

Posted on August 11, 2024

Avoids: chocolate
Age: 23
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 tailored meal plan is designed to help you healthily gain muscle mass over the course of one week, with easy-to-prepare meals that align with your dietary preferences and a beginner's cooking experience.

Starting your days with delightful breakfasts like Greek Yogurt with Honey and Berries, and Scrambled Eggs with Spinach, you'll get the needed energy boost.

Cover image
AI meal plans: Where AI meets appetite.

The Art of Custom Meal Planning for Healthy Living

In a world brimming with fast food and takeout options, it’s easy to let convenience overshadow health, particularly for young adults navigating busy schedules and the growing pains of independence. However, this is precisely where a well-crafted meal plan becomes invaluable. Designed specifically for the bustling 23-year-old with beginner cooking experience, this Balanced Flavors 7-Day Gourmet Meal Plan is a delightful foray into the world of healthful eating that doesn’t skimp on flavor or variety. Eating healthy is more than just counting calories. It's about fueling your body with the right nutrients to ensure you have the energy and strength to lead an active lifestyle. For those aiming to gain muscle mass, consuming the right proportions of proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats is paramount. Delving into the structure of this meal plan reveals a pathway to not just healthy eating, but also an exploration of culinary creativity, even if your experience in the kitchen is minimal.

A Glimpse into the Week Ahead

Imagine waking up on a Monday morning and indulging in a refreshing bowl of Greek Yogurt topped with honey and berries. It’s the perfect blend of sweetness and calcium-rich yogurt to kickstart your day. Lunch rolls around, and you’re savoring a Turkey and Avocado Sandwich—creamy, hearty, and packed with protein. Then, as the sun sets, a satisfying dinner of Grilled Chicken with Steamed Vegetables awaits, offering a tapestry of flavors in every bite. Each day of this thoughtfully curated meal plan is brimming with easy-to-make dishes that align seamlessly with a beginner's culinary skills. On Tuesday, for instance, switching things up with Scrambled Eggs with Spinach and a Chicken Caesar Salad provides not only variety but fulfills your nutritional requirements adeptly. The joy of meal planning lies in this very diversity—you won’t ever feel bored with your meals.

The Science Behind a Balanced Plate

Nutrition science tells us that balanced meals can yield powerful results, especially for those on a fitness journey. The meals incorporated in this plan are artfully designed to deliver around 2312 calories a day, ideal for muscle gain. From the proteins in Salmon with Sweet Potato and Asparagus to the complex carbohydrates in overnight oats, every ingredient has been selected not just for taste but for their synergistic benefits. On Day 4, delve into a Beef Stir-Fry filled with an array of colorful vegetables, ensuring that you’re consuming an abundance of vitamins and minerals that support muscle repair while also whetting your appetite for more. This balance is crucial for someone in their early twenties—ensuring that as you gain muscle, you’re also cultivating lasting dietary habits.

Efficiency Meets Flavor

One of the standout features of our Balanced Flavors meal plan is its time efficiency. In a busy week of classes, part-time jobs, and social events, who has the time to spend hours in the kitchen? Each meal is designed to be prepared in 30 minutes or less. Picture whipping up an Egg and Veggie Breakfast Burrito or a Tuna Salad with Crackers in no time, perfect for anyone who values both convenience and health. Even on those days when life gets hectic, the plan offers ready-to-eat meals, like the wholesome Pancakes with Maple Syrup and Fruit for a Sunday brunch, which can be made quickly, ensuring you never have to sacrifice nutrition for time.

A Journey of Health and Happiness

When it comes to meal planning, one of the most significant benefits is the ability to foster a deeper relationship with food. As you navigate through diverse healthful dishes like Shrimp Tacos with Coleslaw or Roast Beef with Carrots and Potatoes, not only are you nourishing your body, but you’re also engaging your palate in new flavors and textures. This process encourages mindful eating, which is vital for a balanced life. Ultimately, embarking on the 7-Day Gourmet Meal Plan is about much more than just meals; it’s about setting the stage for a healthier lifestyle. Embracing nutritious food preparation fosters confidence and creativity in the kitchen while instilling lifelong habits that contribute to overall well-being. As you savor each delicious bite, you’ll not only feel your energy levels rise and muscle tone improve but discover that eating healthy can indeed be a thrilling adventure and a testament to self-care.

Conclusion: The Custom Meal Planner Effect

In conclusion, the importance of having a custom-made meal planner cannot be overstated. With the Balanced Flavors 7-Day Gourmet Meal Plan as your guide, you’re not just following a menu; you’re stepping into a specially crafted journey that suits your tastes, dietary needs, and lifestyle. So grab your apron and take the plunge—each bite brings you closer to a healthier, happier you. And remember, good nutrition is the key to unlocking your full potential, one delicious meal at a time.

Lunches including Turkey and Avocado Sandwiches, and Chicken Caesar Salads, will keep you satiated and on track towards your goal.

AI meal plans: Where AI meets appetite.

Dinners like Grilled Chicken with Steamed Vegetables and Spaghetti with Meatballs offer a balance of delicious flavors while ensuring you get sufficient nutrients. With meals prepped within 30 minutes, this plan ensures convenience without compromising on variety. Enjoy a blend of diverse, flavorful dishes such as Salmon with Sweet Potato and Asparagus, Shrimp Tacos with Coleslaw, and Roast Beef with Carrots and Potatoes, all curated to aid your healthy weight gain journey

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

Scrambled Eggs with Spinach

Calories: 578

Ingredients:

  • Eggs 4 large
  • Fresh spinach 100g
  • Olive oil 1 tablespoon
  • Salt To taste
  • Black pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Crack 4 large eggs into a bowl and whisk until smooth.
  2. Step 2: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
  3. Step 3: Add 100g of fresh spinach to the pan and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
  4. Step 4: Pour the eggs into the pan and stir continuously until they are set but still soft, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Step 5: Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately.
10 minutes
Easy

Lunch

Chicken Caesar Salad

Calories: 754

Ingredients:

  • Chicken breast 200g
  • Romaine lettuce 150g
  • Caesar dressing 30g
  • Parmesan cheese 30g
  • Croutons (optional) To taste
  • Salt To taste
  • Black pepper To taste
  • Olive oil 1 tablespoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Preheat grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Step 2: Season 200g of chicken breast with salt, pepper, and a touch of olive oil.
  3. Step 3: Grill chicken until fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes per side.
  4. Step 4: In a large bowl, combine 150g of romaine lettuce, 30g of Caesar dressing, 30g of grated Parmesan cheese, and croutons if desired.
  5. Step 5: Slice the grilled chicken and add to the salad. Toss everything together and serve.
10 minutes
Easy

Dinner

Spaghetti with Meatballs

Calories: 827

Ingredients:

  • Spaghetti 200g
  • Ground beef 200g
  • Marinara sauce 200g
  • Egg 1 large
  • Olive oil 1 tablespoon
  • Salt To taste
  • Black pepper To taste
  • Parmesan cheese (optional) To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Cook 200g of spaghetti according to package instructions, then drain.
  2. Step 2: In a bowl, combine 200g of ground beef with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, and 1 egg. Form the meat mixture into small meatballs.
  3. Step 3: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the meatballs until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
  4. Step 4: Add 200g of marinara sauce to the pan with the meatballs and simmer for another 5-7 minutes.
  5. Step 5: Serve the meatballs and sauce over the cooked spaghetti, garnished with 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
25 minutes
Easy

Tuesday

Breakfast

Smoothie with Banana, Peanut Butter, and Oats

Calories: 600

Ingredients:

  • Banana 1 medium (120g)
  • Peanut Butter 2 tablespoons (32g)
  • Rolled Oats 1/2 cup (40g)
  • Milk 1 cup (240ml)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Peel and slice the banana.
  2. Step 2: Add banana slices, peanut butter, oats, and milk into a blender.
  3. Step 3: Blend until smooth and creamy.
  4. Step 4: Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
10 minutes
Easy

Lunch

Quinoa Salad with Chickpeas and Feta

Calories: 800

Ingredients:

  • Quinoa 1 cup (185g)
  • Chickpeas 1 cup (160g)
  • Cucumber 1 medium (150g)
  • Bell Pepper 1 medium (120g)
  • Cherry Tomatoes 1 cup (150g)
  • Feta Cheese 1/2 cup (75g)
  • Olive Oil 2 tablespoons (30ml)
  • Lemon Juice 1 tablespoon (15ml)
  • Salt to taste
  • Black Pepper to taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Cook the quinoa according to the package instructions.
  2. Step 2: Rinse and drain the chickpeas.
  3. Step 3: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chickpeas, diced cucumber, diced bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes.
  4. Step 4: Crumb the feta cheese over the salad.
  5. Step 5: Add olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the bowl and toss everything together.
  6. Step 6: Serve immediately or chill for later.
15 minutes
Easy

Dinner

Salmon with Sweet Potato and Asparagus

Calories: 905

Ingredients:

  • Salmon Fillet 200g
  • Sweet Potato 1 medium (150g)
  • Asparagus 100g
  • Olive Oil 2 tablespoons (30ml)
  • Salt to taste
  • Black Pepper to taste
  • Garlic Powder 1 teaspoon (5g)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Step 2: Peel and chop the sweet potato into small cubes.
  3. Step 3: Trim the asparagus.
  4. Step 4: Place the salmon fillet, sweet potato cubes, and asparagus on a baking sheet.
  5. Step 5: Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and vegetables.
  6. Step 6: Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  7. Step 7: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
  8. Step 8: Serve hot.
30 minutes
Easy

Wednesday

Breakfast

Overnight Oats with Almonds and Blueberries

Calories: 600

Ingredients:

  • Rolled oats 50g
  • Milk 100ml
  • Greek yogurt 50g
  • Almonds 20g
  • Blueberries 50g
  • Honey 1 teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine 50g of rolled oats, 100ml of milk (or almond milk if you prefer), and 50g of Greek yogurt.
  2. Step 2: Mix in 20g of chopped almonds and 50g of blueberries.
  3. Step 3: Add a teaspoon of honey for sweetness and stir well.
  4. Step 4: Cover the bowl and refrigerate overnight.
  5. Step 5: In the morning, give it a quick stir and it's ready to eat.
10 minutes
Easy

Lunch

BLT Sandwich

Calories: 750

Ingredients:

  • Bacon 4 slices
  • Gluten-free bread 2-3 slices
  • Mayonnaise 2 tablespoons
  • Lettuce 50g
  • Tomatoes 50g

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Cook 4 slices of bacon in a skillet until crispy, then drain on paper towels.
  2. Step 2: Toast 2-3 slices of gluten-free bread.
  3. Step 3: Spread a tablespoon of mayonnaise on each slice of bread.
  4. Step 4: Layer the bacon, 50g of lettuce, and 50g of sliced tomatoes between the slices of bread.
  5. Step 5: Cut the sandwich in half and serve.
10 minutes
Easy

Dinner

Beef Stir-Fry with Mixed Vegetables

Calories: 950

Ingredients:

  • Beef sirloin 200g
  • Olive oil 2 tablespoons
  • Mixed vegetables 100g
  • Soy sauce 20ml
  • Garlic 10g
  • Ginger 10g
  • Honey 1 tablespoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Slice 200g of beef sirloin thinly.
  2. Step 2: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Step 3: Add the beef and cook until browned, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Step 4: Add another tablespoon of olive oil and stir-fry 100g of mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots) for about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Step 5: WCombine soy sauce or tamari, 20g garlic, 20ml ginger, and 20ml honeyw and simmer for a minute.
  6. Step 6: Return the beef to the skillet, combine everything well, and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  7. Step 7: Serve hot, optionally with a side of rice or noodles.
20 minutes
Easy

Thursday

Breakfast

Egg and Veggie Breakfast Burrito

Calories: 577

Ingredients:

  • Eggs 2 large
  • Bell peppers 50g
  • Onions 50g
  • Whole wheat tortilla 1
  • Shredded cheese 30g

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Spray with cooking spray.
  2. Step 2: Whisk 2 large eggs in a bowl. Pour eggs into the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until scrambled and fully cooked, about 3 minutes.
  3. Step 3: Remove the eggs from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add 50g diced bell peppers and 50g diced onions. Cook until veggies are soft, about 5 minutes.
  4. Step 4: Add the cooked veggies and eggs to a whole wheat tortilla. Top with 30g shredded cheese.
  5. Step 5: Roll up the tortilla into a burrito. Serve immediately.
10 minutes
Easy

Lunch

Tuna Salad with Crackers

Calories: 693

Ingredients:

  • Canned tuna 150g
  • Celery 50g
  • Red onion 50g
  • Mayonnaise 30g
  • Whole grain crackers 8 pieces

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine 150g canned tuna (drained), 50g diced celery, and 50g diced red onion.
  2. Step 2: Add 30g mayonnaise and a squeeze of lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
  3. Step 3: Serve the tuna salad with a side of 8 whole grain crackers.
10 minutes
Easy

Dinner

Pork Chops with Mashed Potatoes and Green Beans

Calories: 1042

Ingredients:

  • Pork chops 200g
  • Potatoes 200g
  • Butter 30g
  • Milk 50ml
  • Green beans 100g
  • Olive oil 1 tablespoon
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Season 200g pork chops with salt and pepper.
  2. Step 2: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes on each side.
  3. Step 3: Transfer the seared pork chops to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until fully cooked.
  4. Step 4: In a pot, boil 200g peeled and cubed potatoes until fork-tender. Drain and mash with 30g butter and 50ml milk until smooth and creamy.
  5. Step 5: Steam 100g green beans until tender, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Step 6: Serve the pork chops with mashed potatoes and green beans.
25 minutes
Easy

Friday

Breakfast

Whole-Grain Toast with Avocado and Egg

Calories: 600

Ingredients:

  • Whole-grain bread 2 slices (120g, 220 calories)
  • Avocado 1 medium (100g, 160 calories)
  • Egg 2 large (130g, 220 calories)
  • Salt and Pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Toast two slices of whole-grain bread until golden brown.
  2. Step 2: Mash one ripe avocado in a bowl and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Step 3: Spread the mashed avocado evenly on the toasted bread.
  4. Step 4: In a frying pan, cook two eggs to your preference (sunny side up, scrambled, etc.).
  5. Step 5: Place the cooked eggs on top of the avocado toast and serve immediately.
10 minutes
Easy

Lunch

Chicken Wrap with Mixed Greens

Calories: 750

Ingredients:

  • Chicken breast 150g (165 calories)
  • Whole-wheat wrap 1 large (100g, 220 calories)
  • Hummus 1 tablespoon (30g, 70 calories)
  • Mixed greens 50g (15 calories)
  • Vegetables (e.g., tomato, cucumber) 50g (30 calories)
  • Salt and Pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Grill or sauté 150g of chicken breast until fully cooked, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  2. Step 2: Warm a whole-wheat wrap in a pan or microwave for a few seconds.
  3. Step 3: Spread a tablespoon of hummus over the wrap.
  4. Step 4: Slice the cooked chicken breast and place it on the wrap.
  5. Step 5: Add a generous handful of mixed greens and some sliced vegetables (e.g., tomatoes, cucumbers) on top.
  6. Step 6: Roll the wrap tightly and cut it in half, if desired.
10 minutes
Easy

Dinner

Shrimp Tacos with Coleslaw

Calories: 960

Ingredients:

  • Shrimp 200g (200 calories)
  • Corn tortillas 2 large (100g, 200 calories)
  • Coleslaw mix 100g (25 calories)
  • Mayonnaise 1 tablespoon (30g, 90 calories)
  • Lime 1 medium (50g, 15 calories)
  • Salt and Pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook 200g of shrimp until pink and opaque, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  2. Step 2: Warm 2 corn tortillas in a pan or microwave.
  3. Step 3: In a bowl, mix 100g of coleslaw mix with 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise and a squeeze of lime juice, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  4. Step 4: Assemble the tacos by placing the cooked shrimp on the tortillas and topping with the coleslaw mix.
  5. Step 5: Serve with lime wedges on the side.
10 minutes
Easy

Saturday

Breakfast

Pancakes with Maple Syrup and Fruit

Calories: 578

Ingredients:

  • all-purpose flour 100g
  • sugar 1 tablespoon
  • baking powder 1 teaspoon
  • salt a pinch
  • milk 100ml
  • egg 1
  • butter 1 tablespoon
  • maple syrup 50ml
  • mixed fruits 100g

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: In a bowl, mix 100g of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
  2. Step 2: In another bowl, whisk 100ml of milk, 1 egg, and 1 tablespoon of melted butter.
  3. Step 3: Combine the wet and dry ingredients and mix just until combined.
  4. Step 4: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook until golden brown.
  5. Step 5: Serve with 50ml of maple syrup and 100g of mixed fresh fruits (e.g., strawberries, blueberries).
25 minutes
Easy

Lunch

Quinoa and Black Bean Bowl

Calories: 693

Ingredients:

  • quinoa 100g
  • canned black beans 100g
  • corn kernels 50g
  • bell peppers 50g
  • cherry tomatoes 50g
  • olive oil 2 tablespoons
  • lime 1
  • cumin 1 teaspoon
  • salt to taste
  • avocado 50g

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Cook 100g of quinoa according to package instructions.
  2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, 100g of canned black beans (rinsed and drained), 50g of corn kernels, some chopped bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes.
  3. Step 3: Prepare a dressing by mixing 2 tablespoons of olive oil, juice of 1 lime, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and salt to taste.
  4. Step 4: Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
  5. Step 5: Serve topped with 50g of sliced avocado.
20 minutes
Easy

Dinner

Roast Beef with Carrots and Potatoes

Calories: 1044

Ingredients:

  • beef roast 200g
  • carrots 100g
  • potatoes 100g
  • olive oil 2 tablespoons
  • salt to taste
  • pepper to taste
  • dried rosemary 1 teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. Step 2: Season 200g of beef roast with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary.
  3. Step 3: Place the beef in a baking dish along with 100g of chopped carrots and 100g of diced potatoes.
  4. Step 4: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the vegetables and beef.
  5. Step 5: Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until the beef is cooked to your liking and the vegetables are tender.
30 minutes
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.

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