Kick-start your week with a burst of flavors and excitement! Cooking can be overwhelming, especially when you’re short on time. But fear not, dear foodies! We’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 quick and easy recipes that will satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling accomplished.
From classic comfort foods to international inspirations, these dishes are designed to be made in no more than 30 minutes, using simple ingredients and straightforward techniques. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student on-the-go, or just looking for a mid-week pick-me-up, we’ve got the perfect recipe for you.
In this article, we’ll be sharing our favorite quick recipes that are sure to become staples in your kitchen arsenal. From seafood to meat, veggies to grains, and everything in between, we’ve covered it all. So grab a pen, paper, and your apron – let’s get cooking!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines the sweetness of shrimp with the richness of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Reduce heat to low and add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir in white wine (if using) and let simmer for 1 minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta, garlic butter sauce, and reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Veggies
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and effortless one-pan recipe, featuring tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a tangy lemon herb sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the onion, garlic, and bell peppers; cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the lemon juice, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
A hearty and comforting slow cooker beef stew recipe that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day when you need a nourishing meal. This easy-to-make dish is packed with tender beef, crunchy vegetables, and rich flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the beef with salt and pepper.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, carrots, potatoes, beef broth, red wine (if using), and thyme to a slow cooker.
3. Add the seasoned beef to the slow cooker and stir gently.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu
A classic and quick stir-fry recipe that combines the savory flavors of tofu, mixed vegetables, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pan; cook until the onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the bell peppers and mixed vegetables; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Return the tofu to the pan; stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sheet Pan Sausage and Potatoes
This recipe is a classic comfort food combination that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. With just a few ingredients, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 pound sausage (such as Italian sausage or Chorizo), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs or spices (such as paprika, garlic powder, or dried thyme)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Arrange the sweet potato cubes on half of the sheet pan in a single layer.
4. Place the sliced sausage on the other half of the sheet pan, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Drizzle olive oil over both the sweet potatoes and sausage.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the sausage is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Chicken Tacos with Avocado Salsa
This recipe combines juicy chicken, crispy tacos, and creamy avocado salsa for a deliciously easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Salsa (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, shredded cheese, sour cream
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled chicken, Avocado Salsa, and desired toppings.
Avocado Salsa:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Quinoa and Black Bean Salad
This quinoa and black bean salad is a flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins from the quinoa, black beans, and mixed vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small red onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, bell pepper, onion, and garlic.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on cooking quinoa and black beans)
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Savor the simplicity of this traditional Italian dish, where spaghetti is tossed with garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes to create a flavorful and aromatic pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4-6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove the skillet from the heat and add the red pepper flakes (if using). Let it sit for 1 minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated with the garlic and oil mixture.
5. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Salmon with Asparagus
A simple yet flavorful recipe that pairs perfectly roasted salmon fillets with tender asparagus. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 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 prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon, then sprinkle with lemon juice and garlic.
5. Toss asparagus spears with remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper.
6. Spread asparagus on a separate baking sheet in a single layer.
7. Bake salmon for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Roast asparagus for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
9. Serve salmon with roasted asparagus.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Wraps
A refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad wraps, this recipe combines the creaminess of Greek yogurt with crispy lettuce and juicy chicken for a satisfying snack or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 head lettuce, leaves separated
– 4 large tortilla wraps
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and dill. Mix until smooth.
2. Lay a tortilla wrap flat on a surface. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken salad onto the center of the wrap.
3. Add a few leaves of lettuce on top of the chicken salad.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrap up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the wrap into a tight cylinder.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes ( prep time: 5 minutes, assembly time: 5 minutes)
Instant Pot Vegetable Soup
Transforming a medley of vegetables into a delicious and nutritious soup has never been easier! With this Instant Pot recipe, you can have a piping hot bowl of goodness on the table in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped carrots, potatoes, and red bell pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls
This recipe brings together the savory flavors of teriyaki chicken, fluffy rice, and crunchy vegetables, all wrapped up in a convenient bowl. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green onions)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and 1 tablespoon of water.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush with the teriyaki mixture.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook rice according to package instructions.
6. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
7. Assemble bowls by placing chicken on top of rice, then adding vegetables. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful Caprese-inspired dish, featuring fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato goodness. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision to create a pocket.
3. Stuff each breast with mozzarella cheese, cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and garlic.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and place in a baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creamy texture of chickpeas with the bright flavors of the Mediterranean, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tbsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, red bell pepper, cucumber, feta cheese, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple for a reason – it’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and broccoli. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and impressive spinach and feta stuffed chicken recipe. Moist chicken breasts are packed with a savory mixture of wilted spinach, crumbly feta cheese, and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine spinach, feta cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach-feta mixture.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lentil and Vegetable Curry
This flavorful curry recipe combines tender lentils with a medley of colorful vegetables and aromatic spices, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With its rich and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onions, carrots, and bell peppers. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes, and 2 cups water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
This classic Italian dish is a flavorful and colorful celebration of summer’s best ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the pesto and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over low heat.
3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pesto mixture and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. When the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the saucepan with the pesto-tomato mixture.
5. Toss the pasta in the sauce until well coated, then top with Parmesan cheese.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Get ready to fall in love with this classic Southern-style pulled pork recipe, smothered in a rich and tangy BBQ sauce. With its tender texture and bold flavors, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw, pickles, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to cover it evenly.
4. Place the pork in the slow cooker and cook for 8-10 hours or overnight.
5. About an hour before serving, stir in the BBQ sauce.
6. Shred the pork with two forks and divide among hamburger buns.
7. Add your desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Roasted Vegetable and Hummus Wraps
Simplify your lunch routine with these flavorful wraps packed with roasted vegetables, creamy hummus, and fresh greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup hummus
– 4 whole wheat tortillas
– Fresh greens (such as kale or spinach)
– Optional: avocado, feta cheese, or red onion for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potato, zucchinis, and bell pepper with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked chickpeas and hummus.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble wraps by spreading hummus mixture on each tortilla, then topping with roasted vegetables and fresh greens. Add optional toppings if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (roasting), 20-30 seconds (tortillas)
Summary
Looking for quick and delicious meals to spice up your week? Look no further! This article features 20 easy recipes that are perfect for busy home cooks. From Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta to Mediterranean Chickpea Salad, these dishes are all quick to prepare and packed with flavor. With options ranging from one-pan meals to slow cooker stews, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes will make mealtime a breeze.
