Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen when you’re short on time? Look no further! In this article, we’ve gathered 20 quick and delicious recipes that can be prepared in just 20 minutes or less. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent trying to get dinner on the table before bedtime, or a college student looking for a meal solution that won’t break the bank, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings without sacrificing flavor.
From savory stir-fries and saucy skillets to fresh salads and satisfying casseroles, our 20-minute recipe collection has something for everyone. And the best part? Each dish can be prepared in a flash, making them perfect for busy nights when you don’t have all day to cook.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, highlighting recipes that are not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy and savory or light and refreshing, our 20-minute recipe collection has got you covered.
So grab your apron, fire up the stove, and get ready to cook up a storm! In the next section, we’ll dive into our first set of quick and delicious recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles
Quickly cook up a flavorful and healthy seafood dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines succulent shrimp, rich garlic butter, and zucchini noodles in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium zucchini
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the saucepan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, spiralize zucchini into noodles. Heat remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add zucchini noodles and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Combine cooked shrimp with zucchini noodles. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spicy Chickpea and Spinach Stir-Fry
Add a burst of flavor to your meal with this quick and easy stir-fry recipe that combines the creaminess of chickpeas, the spiciness of red pepper flakes, and the nutritional boost of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chickpeas and red pepper flakes; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Stir in the spinach leaves; cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Garlic Chicken with Roasted Broccoli
Brighten up your dinner table with this zesty and flavorful dish, featuring succulent chicken breasts infused with the bold flavors of lemon and garlic, served alongside a medley of roasted broccoli florets.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bunch of broccoli, cut into florets
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the lemon-garlic mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a separate baking sheet.
6. Roast broccoli in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
7. Serve chicken breasts with roasted broccoli and lemon wedges (optional).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Avocados
Elevate your avocado toast game with this vibrant Caprese-inspired recipe that combines the creaminess of ripe avocados with the sweetness of fresh tomatoes and mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the cherry tomatoes and a pinch of salt.
3. Stuff each avocado half with a spoonful of tomato mixture.
4. Top each avocado with a slice of mozzarella cheese.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just assemble and serve!)
One-Pan Beef and Bell Pepper Skillet
Quickly cook up a flavorful and nutritious dinner with this simple one-pan recipe. The combination of tender beef, crunchy bell peppers, and savory spices is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the sliced bell peppers to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
5. Return the beef strips to the pan and stir in the cumin and smoked paprika.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Teriyaki Salmon with Snap Peas
This sweet and savory dish combines the flavors of teriyaki sauce with the flaky texture of salmon, paired with crunchy snap peas. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 cup snap peas, sliced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the baking sheet, leaving space between each filet.
4. Brush teriyaki sauce evenly over each salmon fillet.
5. Drizzle vegetable oil over the snap peas and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss snap peas on a separate baking sheet.
7. Bake salmon for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Toss snap peas halfway through baking time (6-7 minutes).
9. Serve baked salmon with roasted snap peas.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Mozzarella
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese with al dente pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) pasta of your choice
– 1/2 cup (120ml) basil pesto
– 1 pint (280g) cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, combine basil pesto and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
3. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the pesto-tomato mixture.
4. Top with sliced mozzarella cheese and cook until melted and bubbly.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas
These flavorful quesadillas are filled with sautéed black beans, sweet corn, and melted cheese. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or snack!
Ingredients:
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a separate pan, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the black beans and corn kernels. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Place a tortilla in the preheated skillet and sprinkle with cheese on half of the tortilla.
4. Spoon the bean and corn mixture over the cheese.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted. Flip and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes for all quesadillas.
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Wraps
A refreshing twist on classic chicken salad, these wraps are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With the creaminess of Greek yogurt and the crunch of fresh veggies, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 4 large tortilla wraps
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together yogurt, mustard, and honey until smooth.
2. Add diced chicken, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese (if using). Mix until combined.
3. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture onto the center of each tortilla wrap.
4. Fold the bottom half up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly.
5. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Thai Basil Beef with Jasmine Rice
This classic Thai dish combines the bold flavors of beef, basil, and chilies with the comforting warmth of jasmine rice. A simple yet satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add beef; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers and garlic; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), salt, and pepper.
5. Add chopped basil leaves; stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Serve beef mixture over cooked jasmine rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado and Egg Toast with Chili Flakes
A vibrant and flavorful twist on the classic avocado toast, this recipe adds a spicy kick from chili flakes and a creamy egg topping.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes or hot sauce for extra heat
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt. Cook in a non-stick pan over medium heat until scrambled to desired doneness.
4. Sprinkle the chili flakes over the avocado.
5. Place the scrambled eggs on top of the avocado.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with red pepper flakes or hot sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies
This recipe is a perfect solution for a busy weeknight dinner. By cooking sausage, vegetables, and potatoes on one sheet pan, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 2 large zucchinis, sliced
– 2 large red potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings (e.g. garlic powder, paprika)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Arrange sausage, bell peppers, zucchinis, and potatoes on the prepared sheet pan in a single layer.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until sausage is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Pasta
A rich and flavorful pasta dish that combines sautéed mushrooms, wilted spinach, and a creamy sauce to create a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine, linguine)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
4. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted (about 2-3 minutes).
5. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom-spinach mixture, and toss until well coated.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza
This recipe combines the flavors of BBQ chicken and pizza on a crispy flatbread crust. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or snack!
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-made flatbread crust (or homemade)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Grill or cook the chicken breasts until cooked through, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
3. Spread BBQ sauce on the flatbread crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with chicken, mozzarella cheese, red onion, and cilantro.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lentil and Sweet Potato Curry
This flavorful and nutritious curry is a perfect blend of Indian spices, tender lentils, and sweet potatoes. It’s a great option for a quick and easy dinner that’s also packed with fiber and protein.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add lentils, sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops with Asparagus
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines tender pork chops with caramelized asparagus. This dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Grill or pan-fry pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toss asparagus with remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
6. Roast asparagus in the oven for 12-15 minutes, or until tender.
7. Brush balsamic glaze mixture on pork chops during the last minute of cooking.
8. Serve pork chops with roasted asparagus.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Tuna Salad Bowls
Escape to the Mediterranean coast with this refreshing and flavorful tuna salad bowl recipe, featuring succulent tuna, crunchy veggies, and tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
3. Add the cooked quinoa on top of the veggies.
4. Place the flaked tuna on top of the quinoa.
5. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley (optional).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Coconut Lime Shrimp with Quinoa
This tropical-inspired dish is a flavorful and nutritious meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With the combination of succulent shrimp, creamy coconut milk, and tangy lime juice, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large skillet, heat coconut oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, and ginger. Pour the mixture over the shrimp and toss to coat.
4. Stir in unsweetened shredded coconut and cook for an additional minute.
5. Serve the shrimp over quinoa and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 bunch broccoli, steamed and chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, chopped broccoli, and shredded cheese.
3. In a separate saucepan, heat the butter over medium heat. Whisk in milk until smooth.
4. Pour the milk mixture over the rice mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the casserole to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Peanut Noodles with Cucumber
This recipe combines the creamy richness of peanut sauce with the spicy kick of chili flakes and the freshness of cucumber, all wrapped up in a dish of perfectly cooked noodles. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a refreshing lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup cucumber, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, chili flakes, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
3. Add the peanut sauce to cooked noodles and toss to coat.
4. Top with sliced cucumber and garnish with scallions if desired.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Get quick and delicious meal ideas for busy nights! This article features 20 recipes that can be made in just 20 minutes or less. From seafood to pasta, and salads to casseroles, there’s something for everyone. Try Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles, Spicy Chickpea and Spinach Stir-Fry, Lemon Garlic Chicken with Roasted Broccoli, or many more. These recipes are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep. With minimal ingredients and easy instructions, you’ll be cooking like a pro in no time!
