Category: On the Road

Welcome to FlexTrades’ cooking blog, crafted especially for our Technicians on the road! Eating well while working away from home can be challenging, especially when you’re tempted to dine out night after night. That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide featuring our top five easy-to-follow recipes. Whether you’re in a hotel room with minimal cooking facilities or renting a temporary space with a full kitchen, these recipes are sure to turn your meals into a delightful experience. We’ve included a vegetarian option too!

1. One-Pan Chicken Fajitas

Tired of the same old fast food? Try these vibrant chicken fajitas. With a few basic ingredients and one pan, you can enjoy a fresh and easy meal that beats any takeout.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp taco seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Tortillas

Instructions:

1. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken slices and taco seasoning, cooking until browned and nearly cooked through.
3. Mix in the bell peppers and onion, sautéing until the vegetables are just tender and the chicken is cooked through.
4. Serve hot with tortillas and your choice of toppings such as sour cream or salsa.

2. Beef Stir-Fry

For a filling dinner that packs a punch of flavor, this beef stir-fry is perfect. It’s one of those great comfort food dishes that you can make in minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef strips
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, broccoli, bell peppers)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• Cooked rice, to serve

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips, cooking until they start to brown.
3. Toss in the garlic and vegetables, continuing to cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Drizzle with soy sauce and stir everything together for an additional minute.
5. Serve hot over rice.

3. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio (Vegetarian)

Here’s a vegetarian meal that doesn’t skimp on taste. It’s a classic pasta recipe that’s minimal on ingredients but big on flavor, ideal for a quieter evening in your temporary kitchen.

Ingredients:

• Spaghetti
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large pan.
3. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until the garlic is golden.
4. Drain the pasta and add it directly to the pan with the garlic oil, tossing to coat.
5. Serve garnished with parsley and Parmesan cheese.

4. Easy Chili

Nothing says comfort food like a warm bowl of chili. This one-pot wonder is not only easy to make but also perfect for keeping you fueled during those long work days.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 can kidney beans, drained
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a pot, brown the meat with the chopped onion until fully cooked.
2. Add the tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Adjust seasoning and serve hot, maybe with some bread or over rice.

5. Pancake Perfection

Start your day right or end it with a sweet treat with these fluffy pancakes. They’re a quick dinner idea when you’re in the mood for something different or a satisfying breakfast that’s ready in minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk the milk, egg, and melted butter together.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
4. Heat a lightly oiled griddle or pan over medium-high heat.
5. Pour or scoop the batter onto the griddle, browning on both sides. Serve hot with syrup or your favorite toppings.