Winter evenings are a time for cozying up with warm, comforting meals that are both satisfying and quick to prepare. This collection of 22 weeknight dinners offers a variety of flavors and cuisines, ensuring that you’ll find something to suit every taste. From hearty soups to spicy stir-fries, these recipes are designed to warm you up in no time, while keeping the cooking process simple and straightforward. All ingredients listed are mindful of dietary guidelines, focusing on wholesome, approachable recipes.
1. Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta
Begin by boiling 300 grams of pasta in salted water. In a pan, cook two tablespoons of olive oil with one finely chopped onion and two minced garlic cloves. Add 250 grams of diced chicken breast, cooking until golden. Stir in 200 ml of cream and 100 grams of fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts. Add the cooked pasta, seasoning with salt and pepper. Top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. This creamy chicken pasta is a deliciously satisfying dish that combines tender chicken spinach with a rich, creamy sauce. It’s excellent for those chilly winter nights when you want something both cozy and quick. With its simple ingredients and straightforward method, this dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner.
2. Spicy Beef Stir-Fry
Slice 300 grams of beef into thin strips. In a bowl, mix two tablespoons of soy sauce, one tablespoon of sesame oil, and one teaspoon of chili paste. Marinate the beef for 10 minutes. Heat a wok and add two tablespoons of vegetable oil. Stir-fry one sliced bell pepper and one chopped carrot for two minutes. Add the beef and sauce, cooking until the beef is done. Serve over steamed rice. This spicy beef stir-fry is a quick and flavorful dinner option that’s full of colors and exciting flavors. The tender beef, combined with fresh vegetables and a hint of spice, makes it a go-to meal for busy evenings. The quick cooking time ensures that dinner is served in under 20 minutes, allowing you to enjoy a warm meal without the lengthy preparation.
3. Lentil and Sweet Potato Soup
Start by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot. Add one chopped onion, two minced garlic cloves, and one teaspoon of cumin. Stir in 200 grams of diced sweet potatoes and 150 grams of lentils. Add 1 liter of vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Simmer until the lentils are tender, about 25 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This lentil and sweet potato soup is a heartwarming dish that’s excellent for cold winter nights. The combination of lentils and sweet potatoes creates a nourishing soup that is both filling and flavorful. With its rich texture and comforting warmth, this soup is an excellent choice for a quick and healthy dinner. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.
4. Garlic Herb Baked Salmon
Preheat your oven to 200°C. Place a 400-gram salmon fillet on a baking sheet. In a bowl, mix two tablespoons of olive oil, one teaspoon of minced garlic, one tablespoon of chopped herbs (such as dill and parsley), and a squeeze of lemon juice. Spread this mixture over the salmon. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. This garlic herb baked salmon is an elegant yet simple dinner option that emphasizes fresh, flavors. The combination of garlic, herbs, and lemon enhances the natural taste of the salmon, creating a delightful dish that doesn’t require much effort. It’s an excellent choice for a healthy dinner that can be made quickly, providing you with a nutritious meal on busy evenings.
5. Vegetable Curry with Chickpeas
Begin by heating two tablespoons of coconut oil in a pot. Add one chopped onion, one diced tomato, and one teaspoon of curry powder. Stir in 200 grams of chickpeas and 150 grams of mixed vegetables (such as carrots and peas). Pour in 400 ml of coconut milk and simmer for 15 minutes. Season with salt to taste. This vegetable curry with chickpeas is a hearty dish that’s easy to prepare. The combination of vegetables and chickpeas in a creamy coconut milk sauce offers a satisfying meal that’s both nourishing and flavorful. It’s a great option for a quick weeknight dinner, providing warmth and comfort with every bite. Serve it with basmati rice for a complete and fulfilling meal.
6. Chicken Fajitas
Slice 250 grams of chicken breast into strips. In a bowl, combine two tablespoons of olive oil, one teaspoon of paprika, and one teaspoon of cumin. Marinate the chicken for 15 minutes. Heat a skillet and add the chicken, cooking until browned. Add one sliced onion and one sliced bell pepper, cooking until soft. Serve with warm tortillas and your choice of toppings. Chicken fajitas are a flavorful meal option that brings a bit of excitement to your dinner table. With its combination of colorful vegetables and tender chicken, this dish is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. The quick cooking time allows you to enjoy these delicious fajitas in under 30 minutes, making them a convenient choice for a weeknight dinner.
7. Mushroom Risotto
In a pot, heat two tablespoons of olive oil. Add one chopped onion and two minced garlic cloves, cooking until soft. Stir in 200 grams of arborio rice and 100 grams of sliced mushrooms. Add 800 ml of chicken broth, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously. Cook until the rice is creamy and tender. Add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. This mushroom risotto is a creamy and luxurious dish that’s excellent for a cozy winter dinner. The rich flavors of mushrooms combined with the creamy texture of the risotto create a satisfying meal that’s both comforting and elegant. It’s a dish that requires a bit of attention but rewards you with a delightful taste experience, making it a wonderful choice for a special evening.
8. Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Slice 300 grams of beef into thin strips. In a bowl, mix two tablespoons of soy sauce, one tablespoon of oyster sauce, and one teaspoon of sugar. Marinate the beef for 10 minutes. Heat a wok and add two tablespoons of vegetable oil. Stir-fry one chopped broccoli head until tender. Add the beef and sauce, cooking until the beef is done. Serve with steamed rice. This beef and broccoli stir-fry is a classic dish that’s both quick and satisfying. The tender beef and fresh broccoli are complemented by a flavorful sauce, making it a delicious option for weeknight dinners. The dish comes together in under 20 minutes, allowing you to enjoy a warm and hearty meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
9. Tomato Basil Pasta
Cook 300 grams of pasta in boiling salted water. In a pan, heat two tablespoons of olive oil and add two minced garlic cloves. Stir in 400 grams of chopped tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes. Add fresh basil leaves and season with salt and pepper. Mix with the cooked pasta. This tomato basil pasta is a classic and timeless dish that brings together the fresh flavors of tomatoes and basil. It’s a simple recipe that’s both quick and satisfying, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner. The combination of fresh ingredients and minimal cooking time means you can enjoy a delicious meal in less than 30 minutes, excellent for those busy evenings.
10. Savory Chicken Pot Pie
Chicken pot pie is a cozy dish excellent for winter days. In a saucepan, melt 50 g butter and cook 1 diced onion (100 g) and 2 minced garlic cloves (10 g) until softened. Stir in 50 g flour to make a roux, then gradually add 500 ml chicken broth and 200 ml milk, whisking until thickened. Add 300 g cooked, shredded chicken, 150 g peas, and 150 g diced carrots, seasoning with 1 teaspoon (5 g) salt and 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 g) black pepper. Pour the mixture into a baking dish. Roll out 300 g store-bought pastry, cover the filling, and seal the edges. Bake at 200°C for 25–30 minutes until golden and crisp. Serve warm for nice comfort.
11. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Cook 300 grams of spaghetti in boiling salted water. In a pan, heat two tablespoons of olive oil and add three minced garlic cloves. Cook until golden, then add one teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Mix with the cooked spaghetti and garnish with fresh parsley. Spaghetti aglio e olio is a simple and classic Italian dish that highlights the flavors of garlic and olive oil. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s excellent for a weeknight dinner, offering a delightful taste experience without the need for complex ingredients. The combination of garlic, olive oil, and a hint of spice creates a satisfying meal that’s ready in under 20 minutes, making it a convenient and delicious choice.
12. Chickpea and Kale Stew
In a pot, heat two tablespoons of olive oil. Add one chopped onion and two minced garlic cloves, cooking until soft. Stir in 200 grams of chickpeas, 100 grams of chopped kale, and 400 ml of vegetable broth. Simmer for 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. This chickpea and kale stew is a nourishing and hearty dish that’s excellent for cold winter evenings. The combination of chickpeas and kale creates a filling stew that’s both flavorful and comforting. With its rich taste and simple preparation, this stew is an excellent choice for a quick and healthy dinner. Serve it with a slice of whole-grain bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
13. Szechuan Chicken Stir-Fry
Slice 250 grams of chicken breast into strips. In a bowl, mix two tablespoons of soy sauce, one tablespoon of rice lemon juice, and one teaspoon of Szechuan pepper. Marinate the chicken for 15 minutes. Heat a wok and add two tablespoons of vegetable oil. Stir-fry one sliced bell pepper and one chopped carrot for two minutes. Add the chicken and sauce, cooking until the chicken is done. Serve with white rice. Szechuan chicken stir-fry is a spicy and flavorful dish that offers an exciting taste experience. The combination of tender chicken and fresh vegetables, enhanced by the bold flavors of Szechuan pepper, creates a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. With its quick cooking time, this stir-fry is an excellent choice for a lively weeknight dinner.
14. Vegetable and Tofu Stir-Fry
Dice 200 grams of tofu into cubes. In a bowl, mix two tablespoons of soy sauce, one tablespoon of sesame oil, and one teaspoon of ginger. Marinate the tofu for 15 minutes. Heat a wok and add two tablespoons of vegetable oil. Stir-fry one chopped broccoli head and one sliced bell pepper for two minutes. Add the tofu and sauce, cooking until the tofu is golden. Serve with brown rice. This vegetable and tofu stir-fry is a healthy dish that offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The tender tofu and fresh vegetables are complemented by a savory sauce, making it a satisfying meal option for weeknight dinners. The quick cooking time ensures that you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
15. Moroccan Chicken Tagine
In a pot, heat two tablespoons of olive oil. Add one chopped onion and two minced garlic cloves, cooking until soft. Stir in 250 grams of chicken breast, one teaspoon of cumin, and one teaspoon of cinnamon. Add 200 ml of chicken broth and 100 grams of dried apricots. Simmer for 20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. This Moroccan chicken tagine is a flavorful and aromatic dish that transports you to the exotic flavors of Morocco. The combination of spices, chicken, and dried apricots creates a rich and satisfying meal that’s excellent for a cozy winter dinner. With its unique taste and simple preparation, this tagine is a great choice for a special evening meal, providing warmth and comfort with every bite.
16. Warm Tomato and Bread Soup
Warm tomato and bread soup is a comforting winter dish. Heat 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil in a pot and cook 1 diced onion (100 g) and 2 minced garlic cloves (10 g) until softened. Add 800 g canned tomatoes, 500 ml vegetable broth, and 1 teaspoon (5 g) sugar, simmering for 15 minutes. Tear 200 g day-old bread into chunks and stir into the soup, cooking until it absorbs the liquid and thickens. Season with 1 teaspoon (5 g) salt and 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 g) black pepper. Serve warm, drizzled with 2 tablespoons (30 ml) cream and garnished with fresh basil leaves for added flavor and elegance.
17. Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers
Slice 250 grams of chicken breast into cubes. In a bowl, mix two tablespoons of olive oil, one tablespoon of lemon juice, and one teaspoon of mixed herbs. Marinate the chicken for 15 minutes. Thread the chicken onto skewers and grill until cooked through. Serve with couscous. These lemon herb chicken skewers are a fresh and flavorful dish that’s excellent for a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of lemon and herbs enhances the natural taste of the chicken, creating a light and satisfying meal. With its simple preparation and quick cooking time, this dish is an excellent choice for busy evenings, providing you with a delicious and nutritious meal that’s ready in no time.
18. Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Peppers
Preheat your oven to 190°C. Halve two bell peppers and remove the seeds. In a bowl, mix 200 grams of ricotta cheese, 100 grams of chopped spinach, and one teaspoon of oregano. Fill the pepper halves with the mixture and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes. These spinach and ricotta stuffed peppers are a delightful and healthy dish that’s both colorful and satisfying. The combination of creamy ricotta and fresh spinach creates a flavorful filling, making these peppers a wonderful choice for a cozy winter dinner. With its colors and simple preparation, this dish is a great option for a quick and nutritious meal, bringing warmth and comfort to your table.
19. Thai Green Curry with Chicken
In a pot, heat two tablespoons of coconut oil. Add one chopped onion and two tablespoons of green curry paste, cooking until fragrant. Stir in 250 grams of chicken breast and 400 ml of coconut milk. Add 100 grams of green beans and simmer for 15 minutes. Season with salt to taste. This Thai green curry with chicken is a fragrant and flavorful dish that offers a taste of Thailand in your own kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy coconut milk creates a harmonious balance of flavors that’s both satisfying and delicious. With its quick cooking time, this curry is a wonderful choice for a lively weeknight dinner, bringing excitement and warmth to your table.
20. Zucchini and Carrot Fritters
Grate 200 grams of zucchini and 100 grams of carrots. In a bowl, mix the vegetables with one egg, two tablespoons of flour, and a pinch of salt. Form into patties and fry in olive oil until golden and crispy. Serve with sour cream. These zucchini and carrot fritters are a delightful and crispy dish that’s excellentfor a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of fresh vegetables and simple ingredients creates a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s both light and delicious. With its easy preparation and quick cooking time, this dish is an excellent choice for those busy evenings when you want something tasty and nutritious without the hassle.
21. Pasta Primavera
Cook 300 grams of pasta in boiling salted water. In a pan, heat two tablespoons of olive oil and add one chopped onion and one chopped zucchini. Stir in 100 grams of cherry tomatoes and 50 grams of peas, cooking until tender. Add the cooked pasta and garnish with fresh basil. Pasta primavera is a colorful and fresh dish that with flavors of spring. The combination of tender vegetables and pasta creates a light and satisfying meal that’s excellent for a quick weeknight dinner. With its simple ingredients, this dish is a wonderful choice for those busy evenings when you want to enjoy a delicious and wholesome meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
22. Chicken Alfredo
Cook 300 grams of fettuccine in boiling salted water. In a pan, heat two tablespoons of butter and add two minced garlic cloves. Stir in 250 grams of diced chicken breast and cook until golden. Add 200 ml of cream and 50 grams of grated parmesan cheese. Mix with the cooked pasta. Chicken Alfredo is a creamy and indulgent dish that’s excellent for a cozy winter dinner. The combination of tender chicken and rich Alfredo sauce creates a satisfying meal that’s both comforting and delicious. With its simple preparation and quick cooking time, this dish is an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner, providing you with a warm and luxurious meal that’s ready in no time.