Attention, discerning professionals!
Your culinary salvation has arrived in the form of exquisite empanadas from LovingPastry.com.
These golden, flaky pockets of joy are about to revolutionize your lunch and weeknight dinner experience, proving that gourmet indulgence and convenience can coexist harmoniously.
Let's embark on a gastronomic trip through our top 10 quick and easy empanada-based meals that will transform your table into a haven of sophisticated flavors, all in less than 10 minutes.
1. Savory Beef Empanadas with Zesty Cucumber Salad
Empanada:
Sweet Beef Empanadas (6pcs) - $17.90
Pairing:
Walmart's Simple Truth Organic™ Cucumber Salad Kit
Sauce:
Chimichurri Sauce (14oz) - $5.00
Elevate your palate with this Argentine classic reimagined.
Our sweet beef empanadas, featuring a harmonious blend of premium ground beef, caramelized onions, and a subtle hint of sweetness, pair beautifully with a crisp cucumber salad.
A dollop of our vibrant chimichurri sauce adds a herbaceous kick that'll transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched streets of Buenos Aires.
Nutritional Info (per serving):
Approximately 450 calories, 25g protein, 30g carbs, 28g fat
Cultural Insight:
Sweet beef empanadas, known as "empanadas de carne dulce" in Argentina, showcase the country's culinary artistry in balancing savory and sweet flavors.
This tradition dates back to the colonial era when sugar was a prized commodity, often used to preserve meats and create complex flavor profiles.
For an extra touch of elegance, garnish your plate with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and a few microgreens. This simple addition elevates the visual appeal and adds a gourmet touch to your quick meal.
2. Chicken Empanadas with Smoky Chipotle Corn Salad
Empanada:
Chicken Empanadas (6pcs) - $17.90
Pairing:
Walmart's Great Value Southwest Style Corn Salad Kit
Sauce:
Chipotle Sauce (14oz) - $5.00
Indulge in a fusion of flavors with our succulent chicken empanadas paired with a smoky chipotle corn salad.
The creamy chipotle sauce serves as a luxurious liaison, creating a fiesta of flavors that will make your taste buds dance the salsa.
This combination offers a perfect balance of protein and complex carbohydrates, ideal for refueling after a demanding day at the office.
Nutritional Info (per serving):
Approximately 420 calories, 23g protein, 35g carbs, 24g fat
Cultural Insight:
This pairing draws inspiration from both Argentine and Mexican culinary traditions, showcasing the beautiful fusion of Latin American flavors.
The smoky chipotle element pays homage to ancient Aztec smoking techniques, adding depth and complexity to the dish.
For a lighter meal, consider sharing the empanadas with a colleague and doubling up on the corn salad. This way, you can enjoy the rich flavors while increasing your vegetable intake and reducing overall calorie consumption - a perfect strategy for busy professionals mindful of their health goals.
3. Hawaiian Empanadas with Tropical Fruit Medley
Empanada:
Hawaiian Empanadas (6pcs) - $17.90
Pairing:
Walmart's Marketside Tropical Fruit Mix
Sauce:
Creamy Garlic Aioli (14oz) - $5.00
The sweet and savory filling, encased in our signature flaky pastry, creates a perfect harmony with a refreshing tropical fruit salad.
A drizzle of our house-made creamy garlic aioli adds a touch of indulgence to this island-inspired feast.
Nutritional Info (per serving):
Approximately 380 calories, 18g protein, 45g carbs, 18g fat
Fusion Insight:
While not traditionally Argentine, these Hawaiian empanadas exemplify the global influence on modern cuisine. They represent a delightful fusion of South American pastry craft with Pacific Island flavors, offering a unique taste experience that bridges continents.
Cut your Hawaiian empanadas into bite-sized pieces and serve them as a snack at your next office meeting or gathering. This is a great way to impress your colleagues and satisfy your snack cravings.
4. Shredded Beef Empanadas with Quinoa Tabbouleh
Empanada:
Shredded Beef Empanadas (6pcs) - $17.90
Pairing:
Walmart's Simple Truth Organic™ Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad Kit
Sauce:
Chimichurri Sauce (14oz) - $5.00
Experience the epitome of cross-cultural culinary fusion with our tender shredded beef empanadas accompanied by a protein-packed quinoa tabbouleh. .
A generous drizzle of our signature chimichurri sauce adds a burst of fresh herbs that complements both the empanadas and the salad, creating a sophisticated meal that's both satisfying and nourishing.
Nutritional Info (per serving):
Approximately 480 calories, 28g protein, 40g carbs, 26g fat
Cultural Fusion:
This pairing marries the beloved Argentine empanada with Middle Eastern-inspired tabbouleh, showcasing the global appeal and versatility of these pastries.
The inclusion of quinoa, an ancient grain from the Andes, adds a nod to South American heritage.
Prepare the quinoa tabbouleh in advance and store it in an airtight container. This allows the flavors to meld and provides you with a ready-to-go side dish for multiple meals throughout your busy week.
5. Ricotta & Spinach Empanadas with Tomato Avocado Salad
Empanada:
Ricotta & Spinach Empanadas (6pcs) - $17.90
Pairing:
Simple tomato and avocado salad (diced tomatoes, avocado, red onion, lime juice, salt)
Sauce:
Creamy Garlic Aioli (14oz) - $5.00
Delight in our vegetarian masterpiece - ricotta and spinach empanadas that are a cheese lover's dream.
The creamy, herb-infused filling is perfectly balanced by a simple yet elegant tomato and avocado salad.
A dollop of our velvety garlic aioli adds a luxurious touch to this sophisticated meat-free marvel.
Nutritional Info (per serving):
Approximately 400 calories, 18g protein, 30g carbs, 26g fat
Cultural Insight:
Spinach and ricotta empanadas, or "empanadas de espinaca y ricotta," are a popular vegetarian option in Argentina, especially during Lent.
This combination reflects the Italian influence on Argentine cuisine, marrying Old World flavors with New World pastry techniques.
Elevate your tomato avocado salad by using a mix of heirloom tomatoes in various colors. This simple change adds visual appeal and a subtle flavor complexity that complements the richness of the empanadas.
6. Ham & Cheese Empanadas with Arugula Pear Salad
Empanada:
Ham & Cheese Empanadas (6pcs) - $17.90
Pairing:
Walmart's Marketside Arugula Salad Kit with added sliced pears
Sauce:
Dijon mustard (not included, but a common pantry item)
Our classic ham and cheese empanadas receive a gourmet upgrade when paired with a peppery arugula and sweet pear salad.
A touch of Dijon mustard adds a sophisticated tang that cuts through the richness of the empanadas, creating a balanced and refined flavor profile.
Nutritional Info (per serving):
Approximately 430 calories, 22g protein, 35g carbs, 25g fat
Cultural Background:
Ham and cheese empanadas, or "empanadas de jamón y queso," are a beloved snack in Argentina, often enjoyed as a quick lunch or during "merienda," the Argentine afternoon tea tradition.
This pairing elevates the everyday favorite to a gourmet experience.
Enhance your dining experience by pairing this meal with a crisp Torrontés, Argentina's signature white wine. Its floral notes and bright acidity perfectly complement the savory empanadas and fresh salad.
7. Mixed Empanada Platter with Rainbow Slaw
Empanada:
Empanadas Sampler (6pcs) - $17.90
Pairing:
Walmart's Marketside Rainbow Slaw Kit
Sauce:
All three LovingPastry sauces for dipping
Indulge your palate with a curated selection from our empanada sampler, perfectly complemented by a vibrant rainbow slaw.
Set out all three LovingPastry sauces for a DIY dipping experience that allows you to customize each bite.
This option is perfect for those who love variety or for impressing guests at an impromptu gathering.
Nutritional Info (per serving):
Varies, approximately 450-500 calories depending on empanada selection
Cultural Insight: In Argentina, it's customary to serve a variety of empanada flavors at gatherings, allowing guests to sample different regional specialties.
This tradition, known as "picada," celebrates the diversity of Argentine cuisine and encourages social dining.
Present your empanada platter on a large wooden board or slate tile for a rustic, yet elegant presentation. Arrange the slaw and sauces in small, colorful bowls to create an eye-catching display that's sure to impress your guests or brighten up your solo dining experience.
8. Beef Empanadas with Chimichurri Potato Salad
Empanada:
Sweet Beef Empanadas (6pcs) - $17.90
Pairing:
Walmart's Marketside Potato Salad mixed with extra Chimichurri Sauce
Sauce:
Chimichurri Sauce (14oz) - $5.00
Boost your potato salad game with an Argentine twist by mixing in our vibrant chimichurri sauce.
Paired with our savory beef empanadas, this meal is the epitome of comfort food with a gourmet flair.
The combination of flavors and textures creates a satisfying dish that's both familiar and excitingly new.
Nutritional Info (per serving):
Approximately 520 calories, 24g protein, 45g carbs, 30g fat
Cultural Insight: Chimichurri is Argentina's quintessential condiment, traditionally served with grilled meats but versatile enough to elevate any dish.
By incorporating it into a potato salad, we're creating a fusion that honors both Argentine and American culinary traditions.
For a lighter version, consider using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes in your salad. This substitution adds a nutritional boost with extra vitamins and fiber, while still complementing the rich flavors of the beef empanadas. .
9. Chicken Empanadas with Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
Empanada:
Chicken Empanadas (6pcs) - $17.90
Pairing:
Walmart's Simple Truth Organic™ Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
Sauce:
Creamy Garlic Aioli (14oz) - $5.00
Hop on a Mediterranean expedition with this fusion meal.
Our succulent chicken empanadas find a perfect companion in a Greek-inspired chickpea salad.
The garlic aioli serves as a delicious bridge between cultures, uniting Argentine and Mediterranean flavors in a harmonious blend.
Nutritional Info (per serving):
Approximately 450 calories, 25g protein, 40g carbs, 23g fat
Fusion Insight: This pairing demonstrates the global versatility of empanadas, showcasing how Argentine cuisine can beautifully complement flavors from around the world.
It's a testament to the cosmopolitan palate of the modern gourmet.
Enhance your focus by pairing these protein-rich chicken empanadas with a small cup of green tea. The combination of protein and L-theanine from the tea can provide sustained energy and improved concentration for your afternoon tasks.
10. Vegetarian Empanada Feast with Roasted Vegetable Medley
Empanada:
Ricotta & Spinach Empanadas (6pcs) - $17.90
Pairing:
Walmart's Fresh Mixed Vegetables (roasted with olive oil, salt, and pepper)
Sauce:
Chimichurri Sauce (14oz) - $5.00
Create a vegetarian feast by pairing our delicate spinach and ricotta empanadas with a colorful medley of roasted vegetables.
The chimichurri sauce adds a burst of flavor that ties the whole meal together, proving that vegetarian options can be just as indulgent and satisfying as their meat counterparts.
Nutritional Info (per serving):
Approximately 380 calories, 16g protein, 35g carbs, 22g fat
Cultural Evolution: While meat-filled empanadas are more traditional, vegetarian options like spinach and ricotta have gained popularity in Argentina, catering to changing dietary preferences and global culinary trends. .
This meal represents the evolution of Argentine cuisine.
Host a "Meatless Monday" lunch meeting with your team, featuring these vegetarian empanadas. It's a great way to promote team bonding, discuss sustainability initiatives, and showcase your leadership in promoting healthy, inclusive meal options in the workplace.
These 10 gourmet empanada meals definitively prove that fast food doesn't have to mean sacrificing flavor, nutrition, or sophistication.
With LovingPastry.com's premium, artisanal frozen empanadas and these clever pairings, you can enjoy restaurant-worthy meals in the comfort of your own home, any day of the week.
Whether you're fueling up for a big presentation, treating yourself after a long day, or impressing guests with minimal effort, these empanada-based meals offer a perfect blend of convenience and culinary excellence.
They're not just meals; they're a celebration of flavors, a nod to cultural fusion, and a testament to the fact that busy professionals can indeed have it all – gourmet taste, nutritional balance, and precious time saved.
So why wait?
Enhance your lunch or dining experience today.
Visit LovingPastry.com and discover how these exquisite empanadas can transform your meals from mundane to magnificent.
Your journey to quick, gourmet dining starts with just a click. Indulge, savor, and rediscover the joy of eating well, even on your busiest days.
