Watermelon for Active Agers: A Refreshing Way to Support Strength, Recovery & Healthy Aging

This post is sponsored by National Watermelon Promotion Board. Learn more about watermelon nutrition and get recipes at Watermelon.org.

When most people think of watermelon, they think of backyard barbecues, pool days, and summer picnics. But this juicy fruit deserves a place in your kitchen for more than just its refreshing, sweet taste. If you’re like me, and committed to staying active, maintaining muscle, and aging strong, watermelon offers a surprising combination of hydration, nutrients, and plant compounds that can help support those goals.

While no single food is a magic cure-all, watermelon does fit beautifully into an overall eating pattern that promotes healthy aging—and it’s one of the easiest (and tastiest) ways to nourish your body ALL year (Even off season, personal-sized watermelons and produce cuts are almost always available). Add watermelon to a menu rich in protein, veggies and whole grain; add in lots of activity and quality sleep, and you’ve got a recipe for aging with strength!

Helps You Stay Hydrated:

Hydration becomes increasingly important and often more challenging as we age. Our natural thirst response tends to diminish over time, making it easier to become mildly dehydrated without even realizing! For active adults who enjoy walking, running, hiking, cycling, pickleball, golf, or strength training outdoors, staying ahead of dehydration is essential.

Because watermelon is made up of about 92% water, it provides both fluids and naturally occurring electrolytes (310mg potassium, 6%DV and 24mg magnesium, 6%DV), making it a refreshing way to contribute to your daily hydration needs. 

And, remember… proper hydration, from all sources, supports:

  • Healthy circulation
  • Temperature regulation during exercise
  • Joint lubrication
  • Cognitive function
  • Energy levels and exercise performance
Make Watermelon-AID, a homemade sports drink featuring watermelon juice that Watermelon-AID is a homemade watermelon sports drink that will help keep you hydrated, cramp-free and provide energy for endurance events. Easy, effective and economical.
Pro tip: watermelon juice is amazing too!

Supports Heart Health:

Heart health becomes even more important as we age. And, yes, even for women! In particular, after menopause, a female’s estrogen drops and cardiovascular risk naturally increases.   

But watermelon can be part of a heart-healthy diet. It’s totally fat-free, and contributes several nutrients associated with cardiovascular wellness, including potassium (6%DV), vitamin C (25%DV), lycopene (12.7 grams of lycopene per 2 cup serving), and l-citrulline (286-1266mg per 2 cup serving). Together, these nutrients help support healthy blood vessel function and normal blood pressure as part of an overall balanced diet and active lifestyle.¹

Also, it’s of interest to note that low fruit intake is one of three dietary factors associated with death from cardiovascular disease (CVD) and type 2 diabetes (T2DM) (the other two dietary factors are high salt intake and low whole-grain intake).  (Watermelon Board)

Healthy Blood Flow:

One of watermelon’s most unique nutritional benefits is its naturally occurring L-citrulline, an amino acid that the body converts into arginine, which is then used to produce nitric oxide.

What’s so cool about this for us active agers? Well, nitric oxide helps relax blood vessels, promoting healthy circulation. Better blood flow means oxygen and nutrients can be delivered more efficiently throughout the body, including to working muscles during exercise.

Emerging research suggests this may have benefits for cardiovascular health. A 2025 meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that L-citrulline supplementation and watermelon intake significantly reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in middle-aged and older adults, supporting watermelon as part of an overall heart-healthy dietary pattern.¹

Rich in Lycopene

Watermelon’s vibrant red color isn’t just beautiful. It comes from lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Everyday life and especially exercise, creates oxidative stress within the body. While this is a normal process, excessive oxidative stress over time is associated with aging and chronic disease. Lycopene and the other antioxidants in watermelon may help neutralize free radicals and support your body’s natural defense systems. Diets rich in lycopene have been associated with improved cardiovascular health and reduced markers of oxidative stress.²

Watermelon Greek Yogurt Parfait with Pistachios & Chia Seeds

Helps You Refuel After Exercise:

After a workout, replenishing energy stores and repairing muscle tissue, are your body’s two priorities. Watermelon naturally provides carbohydrates that help replenish glycogen, the stored form of energy your muscles rely on and use up during intense/prolonged exercise.

To maximize recovery, I like to pair watermelon with a quality source of protein, such as cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, chicken, lean beef, my favorite fish, or even with protein powder in a smoothie (like my Watermelon Beet Smoothie). Also, check out the huge collection of recipes at Watermelon.org.

Supports Healthy Skin and Connective Tissue:

Caring for and supporting the tissues that keep us moving is another essential of healthy aging. Watermelon provides vitamin C (25% of DRV), an essential nutrient needed to produce collagen, the protein that helps maintain healthy skin, cartilage, blood vessels, tendons, and ligaments. Combined with its high water content, watermelon can help support and hydrate skin health from the inside out while contributing nutrients important for connective tissue.

Naturally Sweet Way to Satisfy Cravings:

If you’re trying to make more nutrient-dense choices without giving up dessert, watermelon is an easy win. Its natural sweetness, high water content, and satisfying volume make it a refreshing alternative to many calorie-dense treats. It comes in at only 80 calories per 2-cup serving. Rather than feeling deprived, you can enjoy something sweet while also getting hydration, vitamins, antioxidants, and beneficial plant compounds.

Visit Watermelon.org for more information on the Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits of Watermelon.

References

  1. Chen Y, et al. Effects of L-citrulline supplementation and watermelon consumption on blood pressure in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Clinical Nutrition ESPEN. 2025.
  2. Burton-Freeman B, et al. Watermelon and Health: A Review of the Current Evidence. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition. 2019;59(15):2422-2436.
  3. Lumeng JC, et al. Watermelon consumption is associated with improved nutrient intake and diet quality in children and adults. Nutrients. 2022;14:4147.

Teriyaki Beef & Sweet Potato Meal Prep | 36g Protein

Looking for an easy meal prep that is high in protein, balanced with carbohydrates, delicious, and ready in about 15 minutes? This Teriyaki Beef & Sweet Potato Meal Prep checks all the boxes.

Lean ground beef is browned with onion and garlic, tossed with teriyaki sauce, and paired with spiralized sweet potato for a meal that delivers 36 grams of protein per serving along with satisfying carbohydrates. It’s flavorful enough to keep meal prep interesting but simple enough to make on a busy weeknight or prep day. With three servings per batch, it’s an easy way to get a few grab-and-go meals ready for the week.

Why You’ll Love This Teriyaki Beef Meal Prep

Ready in about 15 minutes: No complicated meal-prep marathon required. Brown the beef, quickly steam the sweet potato noodles, divide everything into containers and you’re done.

High in protein: Each serving provides 36 grams of protein, thanks to lean ground beef. Protein is an important part of a balanced eating pattern, especially for active adults looking to support muscle health and recovery.

Balanced with carbohydrates: Sweet potatoes provide carbohydrate-rich fuel to complement the protein-rich beef. I love this combination for an active lifestyle because a satisfying meal doesn’t have to mean choosing between protein and carbs.

Big on flavor: Teriyaki sauce gives the beef a delicious sweet-and-savory glaze, making this meal prep anything but boring.

Gluten-free friendly: Choose a gluten-free teriyaki sauce and this meal can easily fit into a gluten-free eating pattern. Be sure to check labels, since some traditional soy-based sauces and prepared teriyaki sauces contain wheat.

Easy to customize: Add extra vegetables, turn up the heat with Sriracha or gochujang, or finish with your favorite toppings. There are plenty of ways to make this recipe your own.

Great for grab-and-go lunches: Portion the finished beef and sweet potato into three containers and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave. This is a lifesaver for me when I get home from the gym!

spiralized sweet potato

Tips for Making Teriyaki Beef & Sweet Potato Meal Prep

Use lean ground beef: For a leaner meal prep, I recommend using 93% lean ground beef or leaner. You’ll still get plenty of beefy flavor without adding unnecessary fat. Of course, you can use the ground beef you prefer, but remember that the fat percentage will affect the nutrition information. One hack I swear by when buying a less lean option (like 80/20) is to place it in a colander after browning and rinse with warm water.

Peel the sweet potato before spiralizing: Sweet potato skin can be tough, particularly when you’re making sweet potato noodles. A quality vegetable peeler makes quick work of removing the skin before spiralizing. And, a hand spiralizer can be a lot of work on this sturdy root vegetable — I invested in the spiralizing kit for my Kitchen Aid Stand Mixer and it was worth every dollar!

Once peeled, spiralize the sweet potato into long, noodle-like strands. A quick steam in the microwave softens them just enough to finish the meal without turning them mushy.

Take a shortcut with store-bought teriyaki sauce: Could you make homemade teriyaki sauce? Absolutely. And it does give you precise control over the ingredients. But, the practical side of me realizes that I’m only using a half cup and the store-bought options are hard to beat for convenience without noticeable flavor issues. You’ll also find sauces made for a variety of dietary preferences, so choose one that works for your needs. If you’re following a gluten-free or soy-free diet, look for a sauce specifically labeled as such. I like this one HERE.

Add more vegetables: Want to add even more vegetables? Easy! Sauté sliced mushrooms or julienned carrots with the onions before adding the beef. You could also toss in bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas or other vegetables you have hanging around in the refrigerator. That’s one of the reasons I love meal prep recipes like this—they’re flexible enough to clean out the produce drawer.

Make it spicy: For a little heat, add Sriracha or gochujang to the teriyaki beef. You can mix it directly into the skillet or drizzle it over your portion when serving.

Customize the toppings: Have fun with the finishing touches. A sprinkle of sesame seeds, sliced green onions, cilantro or microgreens adds color, texture and fresh flavor.

Macro Boss Meal Prep That Doesn’t Feel Like a Punishment

There’s something about sweet potato noodles and glossy teriyaki beef that makes this feel a little more exciting than the usual meal-prep rotation. You get savory, sweet, tender and satisfying all in one container, with a nice balance of protein and carbohydrates.

Each serving is approximately 406 calories, 36g protein, 11g fat and 40g carbohydrates, making it an easy fit for a balanced meal plan. And because the recipe makes three servings, you’ve got several meals ready to go with very little effort.

Teriyaki Beef with Sweet Potato Spirals
Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
10 mins
Total Time
15 mins
 
Easy Teriyaki Beef Meal Prep with lean ground beef and spiralized sweet potato. Ready in 15 minutes with 36g protein per serving!
Course: dinner, lunch, meal prep
Cuisine: Asian, high protein, Paleo
Keyword: beef, meal prep, sweet potato, teriyaki
Servings: 3 servings
Calories: 406 kcal
Ingredients
  • 1 lb 93/7 Ground Beef
  • ½ cup chopped onion
  • 1 tbsp. minced garlic
  • ½ cup prepared Teriyaki Sauce
  • 1 + lb sweet potato peeled and spiralized
Instructions
  1. In large skillet, brown 1 lb lean ground beef with ½ cup chopped onion and 1 Tbsp minced garlic.
  2. Stir in ½ cup teriyaki sauce, heat a minute until warmed. Set aside.
  3. Meanwhile, peel and spiralize 1 lb+ sweet potato, add to a microwave-safe bowl with 1 Tbsp water and steam for about 2-4 minutes.
  4. Divide beef and sweet potato between 3 lidded containers and garnish however you like.

  5. Store, covered, in fridge for up to 4-5 days. To reheat, crack lid and cook on HIGH in microwave for 2 minutes. Stir and bring to desired temp further, if needed, in 15 second increments.

Recipe Notes

Loaded Mediterranean Chicken Rice Cake | No-Cook, Protein-Packed Snack

If you think rice cakes are boring, this Loaded Mediterranean Chicken Rice Cake may change your mind. A crunchy rice cake gets topped with creamy hummus, leftover chopped chicken, fresh cucumber and tomato, then finished with pistachios and a drizzle of feta ranch. It’s quick, balanced, protein-packed—and requires zero cooking.

The beauty of this recipe is that it works with what you already have. It’s the kind of snack I love: fast, flexible, protein-forward and actually fun to eat. No cooking, no complicated ingredients and no sad desk-snack vibes. At about 200 calories and 14g protein, it makes a great snack or light meal when you want something satisfying without a lot of fuss.

Why You’ll Love this Rice Cake Mini Meal

Quick & no-cook: If you have cooked protein in the fridge, this is basically an assembly job. Spread, chop, pile and drizzle. Done.

Balanced: You get carbohydrates from the rice cake, protein from the chicken, healthy fats from hummus and pistachios, plus fresh veggies for crunch and flavor.

Easy to customize: Think of the rice cake as a blank canvas. Change up the protein, vegetables, spread and toppings based on what you have—or what sounds good.

Gluten-free: Rice cakes are naturally gluten-free, although you’ll want to check ingredient labels on your hummus, dressing and other packaged toppings if you need to strictly avoid gluten.

Ingredient Tips & Easy Swaps

Rice Cakes: I used a plain rice cake, but lightly salted or flavored varieties can work, too. Look for one that’s sturdy enough to handle a generous pile of toppings without immediately falling apart.

Hummus: Classic hummus works perfectly, but flavored varieties like roasted red pepper, garlic or jalapeño can add another layer of flavor.  If you’ve got the time, try a homemade – like my Turmeric Hummus.

Protein: I used chopped chicken breast, but this is a great leftover-protein recipe. Try chopped beef, steak, brisket, leftover roast or even bacon crumbles. Basically, if it’s cooked and hanging out in your refrigerator, it’s fair game. Even a canned tuna or canned chicken can work, if you’re just relying on the pantry.

Veggies

Cucumber and tomato give this version plenty of fresh crunch, but don’t be afraid to clean out the produce drawer. Try:

  • Radish slices
  • Olives
  • Pepperoncini
  • Bell peppers
  • Red onion
  • Arugula or spinach
  • Avocado

The Finishing Touches

This is where you can really make it yours. I used chopped pistachios and a drizzle of feta ranch, but there are plenty of other delicious directions to take it:

  • Tzatziki
  • Feta crumbles
  • Tahini
  • Greek yogurt
  • Fresh herbs
  • Crushed red pepper
Loaded Mediterranean Chicken Rice Cake
Prep Time
5 mins
Total Time
5 mins
 
Loaded Mediterranean Chicken Rice Cake is a quick, no-cook, protein-packed snack made with hummus, chicken, fresh veggies and flavorful toppings. Easy to customize and gluten-free!
Course: Appetizer, lunch, Snack, workout
Cuisine: Greek
Keyword: gluten free, greek yogurt, high protein, hummus, rice cake
Servings: 2 servings
Calories: 204 kcal
Ingredients
  • 2 rice cakes
  • 2 ounces hummus* flavor of choice the single-serve 2-oz snack packs are convenient
  • ½ cup sliced cucumber
  • 3 oz cooked chicken breast leftovers, canned, convenience pack, rotisserie
  • 2 grape tomatoes halved or quartered
  • 2 tsp. chopped pistachios
  • 1 tbsp Feta Ranch or a bit of feta with ranch 😉
Instructions
  1. Divide hummus and spread evenly between the two rice cakes.
  2. Layer with the cucumber and chicken breast.
  3. Garnish with grape tomatoes and pistachios.
  4. Drizzle with dressing.

Protein-Packed Chocolate Rice Cakes That Crush Your Sweet Tooth

I’m firmly in the camp of eat the dessert AND get the protein! 💪😋 These Protein-Packed Chocolate-Covered Greek Yogurt Rice Cakes check all the boxes when a sweet craving hits: they’re crunchy, creamy, chocolatey, fruity and ridiculously easy to make.

Think of them as a little dessert-meets-snack situation: a crisp rice cake topped with creamy Greek yogurt, protein powder and a layer of melted chocolate, finished with a sprinkle of crunchy dehydrated strawberries.

And with plenty of protein from Greek yogurt and protein powder, they’re more than just a sweet treat. They make a great high-protein dessert, afternoon snack or post-workout bite when you want something satisfying without turning to a complicated recipe.

A Rice Cake Is Just the Beginning

Let’s be honest: plain rice cakes aren’t exactly the nutritional superstar of the snack aisle. Just made from puffed rice, plain rice cakes tend to be light and low in protein, fiber, fat and many vitamins and minerals. On the upside, many varieties are made with whole grains and are naturally gluten-free, depending on the brand. But here’s where I think rice cakes really shine: they make an incredibly convenient blank canvas for nutrient-dense toppings. Instead of eating a plain rice cake and calling it a snack, pile on ingredients that bring more protein, flavor and staying power – like Greek yogurt!

Why Greek Yogurt Makes This Treat Seriously Smart for Your Body

Greek yogurt is the secret weapon here – mere 6 ounces of Greek yogurt offers15 to 20 grams of protein! I use zero-fat plain unsweetened Greek yogurt because the protein powder adds a touch of sweetness, and the chocolate topping brings even more dessert-like flavor. But you definitely don’t have to use fat-free or plain yogurt. Try 2% or full-fat Greek yogurt if that’s your preference. Or pre-flavored yogurt. You can also experiment with a plant-based yogurt if that’s a better fit for your dietary needs. The goal isn’t to make this recipe fit into one particular diet. It’s to create a treat that works for you while adding a little more protein to the day.

Chocolate Makes Everything Better

Obviously, we’re putting chocolate on these. Because life is too short for boring snacks. 😋 I usually reach for sugar-free chocolate chips. They don’t necessarily make the recipe lower in calories, but they can help reduce the carbohydrate count compared with traditional sweetened chocolate chips. That said, use whatever chocolate you love! Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, white chocolate or traditional chocolate chips can all work. The important part is that you get that thin, crackly chocolate layer on top. Once you melt with a skosh of coconut oil, it makes a healthy version of “Magic Shell” that firms up when chilled. So fun — see this post with more instructions and serving ideas for Healthy “Magic Shell” Dessert Topping.

Don’t Skip the Fruity Sprinkle

The finishing touch is freeze-dried fruit – strawberries for me, today! Freeze-dried fruit is lightweight, crunchy and intensely fruity. Crush it into little pieces (pro tip, put in a zip-top baggie and smash with a rolling pin) and you’ve got a colorful, naturally sweet topping that adds a fun contrast to the chocolate. And don’t limit yourself to strawberries. Try raspberries, blueberries, bananas, mango or another dehydrated fruit you love. You can even crush the fruit more finely and stir it right into the Greek yogurt mixture.

 Protein Powder adds Even More Protein.

Use your favorite protein powder and “type” like plant-based or whey, etc. Chocolate, vanilla or “exotic” flavors like birthday cake or caramel would all be delicious, depending on how you want the finished treat to taste. Today, I’ve used Nourify Plus protein powder from Previnex — it’s plant-based, has added nutrients and I use it for so many of my fit foodie recipes. Use my discount code THEFITFORK to save 15% off your first purchase.

Save 15% at Previnex with code THEFITFORK

When Should You Eat These?

Pretty much whenever you want dessert. 😉 But they’re especially handy when you want something sweet with a protein boost. It’s about balance! For me, this is exactly the kind of recipe that fits my eat well, move often and enjoy your food outlook. Try one as:

  • A post-workout snack
  • An afternoon pick-me-up
  • A healthier dessert
  • A late-night sweet treat
  • A quick pre- or post-run bite
  • A fun addition to a high-protein snack plate
Protein-Packed Chocolate-Covered Greek Yogurt Rice Cakes
Prep Time
5 mins
chill
10 mins
Total Time
15 mins
 
Protein-packed chocolate-covered Greek yogurt rice cakes are crunchy, creamy, sweet and easy to make. A simple high-protein dessert or post-workout treat!
Course: Dessert, Snack, workout
Cuisine: gluten free, sugar free
Keyword: dessert, frozen yogurt, healthy dessert, healthy snack, high protein, rice cake
Servings: 1 serving
Calories: 244 kcal
Ingredients
  • ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 Tbsp. Protein Powder of choice
  • 1 plain rice cake
  • 1 Tbsp. sugar-free chocolate chips
  • ½ tsp. coconut oil
  • 2 Tbsp approx. freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
Instructions
  1. In small bowl, mix together protein powder with Greek yogurt.
  2. Spread evenly across top of rice cake; set aside.
  3. In another small bowl, add chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave on high for 15 seconds, stop to stir and microwave in 5 second increments, stirring between, until smooth and glossy.
  4. Pour over top of yogurt and sprinkle crushed freeze-dried strawberries on top.
  5. Set in freezer for 10 minutes to set; enjoy!
Recipe Notes

1 serving: 244 calories | 20g protein | 9g fat |24g carb

Mouthwatering Stuffed Mushroom Recipes for Easy Appetizers & Sides

If you’re looking for an easy low-carb recipe that works as an appetizer, side dish, snack, or even a light meal, stuffed mushrooms deserve a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

They’re packed with flavor, endlessly customizable, naturally portion-controlled, and cook up quickly in either the air fryer or Instant Pot—making them perfect for busy weeknights, game day spreads, holiday gatherings, or healthy meal prep. Whether you’re craving pizza flavors, creamy cheese fillings, fresh Caprese ingredients, or protein-packed cottage cheese, there’s a stuffed mushroom recipe here for every mood.

Why You’ll Love Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms check just about every box for healthy eating. They are naturally low in carbohydrates (so great for low carb and keto diets), a great source of nutrients like dietary fiber and vitamin D, easy to customize with your favorite fillings (so you’ll never get bored), perfect for both entertaining and ever day and work served appetizer, side dish, lunch, or light dinner. Also favorite stuffed mushrooms recipes take advantage of convenient cooking methods like the air fryer and instant pot – although, they can always be made in a traditional oven.

Mushrooms are a great source of fiber on a low carb diet.

The Best Mushrooms for Stuffing

White Button Mushrooms: These are the classic choice. Their smaller size makes them perfect as appetizers, and their mild flavor pairs well with almost any filling.

Baby Bella (Cremini) Mushrooms: Baby bellas have a slightly richer, meatier flavor than white mushrooms and hold up beautifully during cooking. They’re my favorite choice for most stuffed mushroom recipes.

Portobello Mushrooms: Want something more meal-sized? Use the same fillings inside large portobello mushroom caps for a satisfying low-carb entrée. You’ll simply end up with fewer servings while enjoying all the same delicious flavors.

Health Benefits of Mushrooms

Mushrooms are much more than a tasty vehicle for cheesy fillings. Really they make everything taste great because they’re naturally rich in umami flavor. That means mushrooms cab help create satisfying meals without requiring lots of extra fat or calories. They’re also naturally:

  • Very low in calories
  • Very ow in carbohydrates
  • Fat-free before adding fillings
  • Rich in antioxidants
  • Good source of B vitamins
  • One of the few plant-based sources of vitamin D
  • Source of selenium, copper, and potassium
  • Contain fiber that supports digestive health

Stuffed Mushroom Recipes to Try

Air fryer Caprese Stuffed Mushrooms are a low carb, 31-calorie, easy appetizer made with mozzarella, tomato, basil, and balsamic glaze in just 15 minutes.

Air Fryer Caprese Stuffed Mushrooms: Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, basil, and balsamic flavors come together in these fresh Italian-inspired bites. They’re ready in about 15 minutes and make an elegant appetizer that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. Get recipe HERE

Air fryer cheesy spinach stuffed mushrooms made with cottage cheese and sharp cheddar. A quick, high-protein appetizer ready in 10 minutes with just 50 calories per piece.

Spinach & Cottage Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms: This protein-packed version combines creamy cottage cheese with spinach for a filling that’s both nutritious and satisfying. They’re a great option when you’re looking for a healthier appetizer or light lunch with extra protein. Get recipe HERE

Pepperoni Pizza-Style Stuffed Mushrooms (Instant Pot): Pizza night meets low carb! These mushrooms are loaded with pepperoni, cheese, marinara flavors, and Italian seasoning for all the comfort of pizza without the crust. Using the Instant Pot makes them incredibly easy but you can also stick in the oven. Get recipe HERE

Zoodles Marinara with Stuffed Mushrooms for meal prep

Three Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms with Zoodles: Creamy three-cheese stuffed mushrooms paired with zucchini noodles create a complete low-carb meal that’s comforting without feeling heavy. Perfect for dinner when you’re craving Italian flavors. Get recipes HERE

Cheeseburger Stuffed Mushrooms (Hold the Pickles!): Everything you love about a cheeseburger—savory beef, melty cheese, onions, and classic burger flavors—served inside juicy little mushroom caps instead of a bun. It’s a fun, bite-sized and protein-packed twist that’s perfect for game day, parties, or an easy weeknight dinner.

No “official” recipe here — just brush mushroom caps with EVOO, stuff with seasoned, cooked ground beef crumbles, and top each with a halved grape tomato. Air fry on 380F for about 10 minutes — top with shredded lettuce and a tiny pickle slices (if you must, lol)!