Finding the time to cook a wholesome meal during busy evenings can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or nutrition. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and traditional or eager to try a new and adventurous dish, there are plenty of options to suit your cravings. These quick and easy recipes focus on simplicity without compromising on taste, making them suitable for weeknights. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can enjoy a satisfying meal without the hassle. Explore a variety of flavors and ingredients that cater to different tastes and dietary needs.
1. Spicy Chickpea Stir-Fry
Chickpeas are a fantastic base for a quick meal. Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan. Add a chopped onion and cook until golden. Toss in 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and a pinch of chili powder. Stir in 1 can (400 grams) of drained chickpeas and 1 diced bell pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, then add 200 grams of cherry tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes soften. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh coriander before serving. This dish is both nutritious and filling, suitable for busy nights.
2. Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Garlic butter chicken bites are the epitome of a quick and tasty dinner. Cut 500g chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook in a skillet until golden, then add minced garlic and butter, stirring until fragrant. Toss with chopped parsley and let the flavors meld for a minute. Serve these delightful bites with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad for a balanced meal. The succulent chicken paired with the aromatic garlic butter sauce is sure to become a weeknight staple.
3. Vegetable Quesadillas
Quesadillas are a quick fix for dinner. To make the tortillas, mix 250g flour, a pinch of salt, 2 tablespoon oil, and 120ml warm water into a dough. Divide and roll into thin rounds, then cook on a dry pan until lightly golden. Begin by heating a tablespoon of oil in a skillet. Place a tortilla in the pan, and sprinkle half with 50 grams of grated cheese. Layer with sliced mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers. Top with another 50 grams of cheese and fold the tortilla. Cook until the cheese melts and the tortilla browns. Repeat with another tortilla. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa and sour cream.
4. Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This stir-fry is both healthy and quick. Start by slicing 300 grams of chicken breast thinly. Heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil in a wok and add the chicken. Stir-fry until cooked through. Add 200 grams of broccoli florets and 1 sliced red bell pepper. Stir in 3 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of sauce. Cook until the vegetables are tender but crisp. Serve hot for a quick dinner that’s packed with nutrients.
5. Egg Fried Rice
Egg fried rice is a classic quick meal. Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok. Add 2 beaten eggs and scramble until just set. Add 200 grams of cooked rice and stir-fry for a few minutes. Mix in 1 cup of frozen peas and diced carrots. Season with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and stir well. Add sliced spring onions before serving. This dish is a nice way to use leftover rice and is ready in under 15 minutes.
6. Curried Lentil Soup
Soup can be quick and comforting. For this curried lentil soup, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pot. Add 1 chopped onion and cook until soft. Stir in 2 teaspoons of curry powder and 1 clove of minced garlic. Add 1 cup of red lentils and 4 cups of vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added flavor.
7. Zucchini and Feta Fritters
These fritters are a delightful option for a quick meal. Grate 2 medium zucchinis and squeeze out excess moisture. Mix with 100 grams of crumbled feta, 2 beaten eggs, and 3 tablespoons of flour. Season with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a pan and drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the pan. Flatten slightly and cook until golden on both sides. Serve with a side of yogurt dip, making these fritters a tasty and easy dinner choice.
8. Herbed Couscous Salad
Couscous salad is a refreshing meal option. Prepare 1 cup of couscous according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and let cool. Add 1 diced cucumber, 200 grams of halved cherry tomatoes, and a handful of chopped mint and parsley. Drizzle with 3 tablespoons of olive oil and the juice of 1 lemon. Toss everything together and season with salt and pepper. This salad is light yet satisfying, excellent for a quick dinner on warm evenings.
9. Mushroom Risotto
Risotto can be quick with a bit of technique. Cook 1 chopped onion in 3 tablespoons of olive oil until soft. Add 200 grams of sliced mushrooms and cook until browned. Stir in 1 cup of arborio rice and cook for 2 minutes. Gradually add 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly, until the rice is creamy and tender. Stir in 50 grams of grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately for a comforting meal.
10. Thai Basil Chicken
This Thai dish is flavorful and quick. Start by slicing 300 grams of chicken breast. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan and add the chicken. Cook until browned. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 sliced red chili. Stir in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Toss in fresh basil leaves and cook until wilted. Serve with steamed rice for a delightful meal that takes under 20 minutes to prepare.
11. Pumpkin Curry
Pumpkin curry is both hearty and easy. In a pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil. Add 1 chopped onion and cook until golden. Stir in 2 teaspoons of curry paste and 1 teaspoon of turmeric. Add 500 grams of diced pumpkin and cook for 5 minutes. Pour in 400 ml of coconut milk and simmer until the pumpkin is tender. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro. This curry is a comforting choice for any busy evening.
12. Simple Caprese Pasta
Simple Caprese Pasta is an delicious dish that enhances fresh flavors. Cook 250g pasta until is cooked, then drain and toss with halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Finish with a balsamic glaze for a hint of sweetness and tang. Ready in just 20 minutes, this meal is both delicious and visually appealing. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this quick pasta ensures satisfaction without the fuss.
13. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
This Mediterranean quinoa salad is a refreshing and healthy option, suitable for those who want something light yet satisfying. It’s packed with fresh flavors and nourishing ingredients. Cook 1 cup quinoa until fluffy, then let it cool. Mix with diced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced olives. Crumble 1/2 cup feta cheese over the top and drizzle with 2 tablespoon olive oil and the juice of 1 lemon. Toss everything together and season with salt and pepper. Serve this salad chilled, either as a main dish or a side.
14. Chickpea and Spinach Stew
This stew is nutritious and quick. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pot. Add 1 chopped onion and cook until soft. Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of cumin. Add 2 cans (400 grams each) of chickpeas and 200 grams of spinach. Pour in 2 cups of vegetable broth and simmer for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Serve with a dollop of yogurt and crusty bread for a complete meal.
15. Teriyaki Salmon
Teriyaki salmon is quick to make. To make the teriyaki sauce, combine 120ml soy sauce, 60ml honey, 1 tablespoon grated ginger, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil. Simmer until slightly thickened. Marinate 2 salmon fillets in 3 tablespoons of teriyaki sauce for 15 minutes. Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the salmon on a baking tray and bake for 12-15 minutes. Serve with steamed broccoli and rice for a balanced meal. The rich flavors of the salmon pair with the simple sides, making it a nice option for a quick dinner.
16. Caprese Salad with Grilled Chicken
This salad is fresh and filling. Grill 300 grams of chicken breast and slice thinly. Arrange slices of tomato and mozzarella cheese on a plate. Add the grilled chicken slices and fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Season with salt and pepper. This dish is light yet satisfying, bringing together classic flavors with a protein boost.
17. Beef and Bean Chili
Chili is a comforting dish to prepare in a hurry. Brown 300 grams of ground beef in a pot. Add 1 chopped onion and cook until soft. Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of chili powder, and 1 teaspoon of cumin. Add 1 can (400 grams) of diced tomatoes and 1 can (400 grams) of kidney beans. Simmer for 20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream and chopped green onions.
18. Couscous and Vegetable Tagine
This tagine is flavorful and easy. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pot. Add 1 chopped onion, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Stir in 1 diced zucchini, 1 diced carrot, and 1 cup of chickpeas. Add 1 cup of vegetable broth and 1/2 cup of dried apricots. Simmer for 15 minutes. Serve over couscous and garnish with toasted almonds. This dish offers a taste of Morocco meals.