Simple Recipes for Busy Weeknights
Are you tired of takeout and looking for quick and easy meal solutions? This blog post provides simple recipes perfect for busy weeknights, ensuring delicious and healthy dinners without spending hours in the kitchen. We'll focus on recipes that require minimal ingredients and cooking time, making them ideal for even the most hectic schedules.
Quick & Easy Chicken Stir-Fry
This recipe is packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned.
- Add onion and garlic; cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in bell pepper and broccoli; cook for another 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Pour sauce over chicken and vegetables; cook until sauce thickens (about 1-2 minutes).
- Serve over rice and garnish with sesame seeds.
One-Pan Lemon Herb Roasted Salmon & Veggies
This recipe is incredibly easy, requiring minimal cleanup!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skin on or off
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup asparagus spears
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place salmon fillet in the center of the baking sheet. Top with lemon slices, olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange broccoli and asparagus around the salmon.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until salmon is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Speedy Tomato & Basil Pasta
This simple pasta dish is a classic for a reason – it's quick, delicious, and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your favorite shape)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Drain pasta and add it to the sauce. Toss to combine.
- Serve with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
These simple recipes are a great starting point for busy weeknights. Remember to adjust seasonings to your liking and feel free to substitute ingredients based on your preferences and what you have on hand. Enjoy your delicious and effortless meals!
