Easy Recipes for Busy Weeknights
Introduction
Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen after a long day at work? Do you crave delicious, home-cooked meals but lack the time (or energy) to prepare them? You're not alone! Many people struggle to balance a busy lifestyle with healthy and satisfying home cooking. That's why we've compiled a list of easy recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. These recipes require minimal ingredients, simple techniques, and most importantly, minimal time! Get ready to enjoy delicious meals without the fuss.
Quick & Easy One-Pan Roasted Chicken and Veggies
This recipe is a weeknight winner! It's healthy, flavorful, and requires minimal cleanup.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 lb broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the potatoes and broccoli with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
- In a separate bowl, toss the chicken with the remaining olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange the chicken on top of the vegetables.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Speedy Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles
This light and flavorful dish is ready in under 15 minutes! It's a great way to enjoy a low-carb, high-protein meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 medium zucchini, spiralized or julienned
- 4 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
- If using, add the white wine and cook for 1 minute, allowing it to reduce slightly.
- Stir in the zucchini noodles and lemon juice. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the zucchini is tender-crisp.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Five-Ingredient Tomato Pasta
This simple pasta dish is perfect for those nights when you need a quick and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pasta (any shape)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package directions.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the sauce. Toss to coat.
- Serve immediately.
Conclusion
These are just a few examples of easy recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. Remember to adjust the seasonings and ingredients to your own preferences. Enjoy your delicious and stress-free home-cooked meals! Happy cooking!
