10 Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinners
1. Stir-Fried Vegetables with Chicken
This simple stir-fry comes together in under 20 minutes. Start by heating some oil in a pan and adding bite-sized pieces of chicken. Once the chicken is cooked, add a mix of your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli. Toss in some soy sauce and garlic, and you've got a quick, nutritious meal.
2. Spaghetti Carbonara
Spaghetti Carbonara is the perfect blend of creamy and savory. Cook some pasta and set it aside. In a pan, fry up some bacon or pancetta. Mix eggs, cheese, and pepper in a bowl, then quickly combine it with the pasta and bacon while it’s still hot to create a luscious, creamy dish.
3. One-Pot Taco Pasta
One-pot meals save on clean-up time, making them perfect for busy weeknights. Brown some ground beef in a large pot, then add taco seasoning, pasta, and a can of diced tomatoes. Cook until the pasta is tender, then stir in some shredded cheese. Garnish with scallions for extra flavor.
4. Sheet Pan Salmon and Asparagus
Sheet pan dinners are a win for their simplicity. Place salmon fillets and trimmed asparagus on a sheet pan. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and lemon slices. Bake until the salmon is flaky, about 15 minutes, for a heart-healthy meal.
5. Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breasts
This dish combines the freshness of a Caprese salad with hearty chicken. Slice chicken breasts and stuff them with mozzarella, tomato slices, and basil leaves. Sear both sides in a hot pan, then bake in the oven until the chicken is fully cooked. Serve with a side of greens.
6. Veggie Quesadillas
Veggie quesadillas are delightful and easy to make. Sauté a mix of vegetables like onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms in a pan. Place the veggies on a tortilla, sprinkle with cheese, and top with another tortilla. Cook until crispy and golden brown.
7. Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
For a zesty and light dinner, try lemon garlic shrimp pasta. Sauté shrimp in olive oil with garlic and red pepper flakes. Toss in cooked pasta, lemon juice, and zest. Add some parsley for garnish and your dinner is ready in no time.
8. Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This classic takeout favorite can be made at home quickly. Slice beef thin and stir-fry in a hot pan. Remove the beef and stir-fry broccoli until tender-crisp. Return the beef to the pan, add a mix of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, and stir until everything is coated.
9. Chickpea Salad with Feta
Chickpea salad is a no-cook option that’s packed with nutrients. Combine canned chickpeas with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Toss with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for a fresh, filling meal.
10. Quick Beef Tacos
Beef tacos are a family favorite and can be made quickly. Brown ground beef in a skillet and add taco seasoning. Serve on warm tortillas with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and avocado. A dollop of sour cream or salsa adds the finishing touch.
These 10 recipes will simplify your weeknight routine while keeping your meals varied and delicious. No matter how busy you are, you'll find that preparing tasty and nutritious dinners doesn't have to be stressful or time-consuming.