A balanced diet is one that delivers the vitamins, minerals, and calories that your body needs--and in the "right" amounts. There are nutrients that you must get from food--called essential nutrients--because your body can't make them itself. Learn why a balanced diet is crucial to your health and weight--and how to achieve one. This book provides a no-nonsense, no-translation-necessary take on meal preparation. The recipes are organized in a series of three sections each: (1) recipe title, description, and necessary kitchen tools; (2) ingredients with preparation instructions and substitutions; (3) quick list of prepared ingredients followed by clear instructions. Result: A pain-free, hassle-free, balanced, delicious meal consisting of the three core food groups (protein, vegetable, and carbohydrate).