Weeknights can often be a hectic time for many individuals. After a long day at work or school, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen preparing a complicated meal. However, that does not mean you have to sacrifice flavor or nutrition. With the right recipes in your arsenal, you can whip up delicious meals in no time. Here are some of the easiest recipes for busy weeknights that are sure to become your go-tos when time is of the essence.
Quick and Delicious One-Pan Chicken and Veggies
One-pan meals are a lifesaver on busy weeknights. Not only do they cut down on dishes, but they also make for a quick and satisfying dinner. To make a simple one-pan chicken and veggies dish, start by seasoning boneless, skinless chicken breasts with your favorite spices. Next, chop up an assortment of vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Toss everything together on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and bake until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender. In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a complete meal ready to enjoy.
Speedy Stir-Fry with Rice
Stir-fries are another excellent option for busy weeknights. Not only are they quick to make, but they are also a great way to use up any vegetables you have on hand. To whip up a speedy stir-fry, start by cooking your choice of protein (such as chicken, beef, or tofu) in a hot skillet with some oil. Add in a mix of chopped vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and snow peas. Season with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for flavor. Serve the stir-fry over a bed of cooked rice for a filling and nutritious meal that comes together in minutes.
Easy 15-Minute Pasta with Pesto
Pasta is a go-to meal for many on busy nights, and for a good reason – it’s quick, versatile, and comforting. One of the easiest pasta dishes you can make is a 15-minute pasta with pesto. Simply cook your favorite pasta according to the package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, blend together fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil to make a quick pesto sauce. Toss the cooked pasta with the pesto sauce, and you have a delicious meal that is ready in no time.
Simple Sheet Pan Salmon with Asparagus
Sheet pan meals are a game-changer when it comes to easy weeknight cooking. For a simple and healthy option, try making sheet pan salmon with asparagus. Place salmon fillets and trimmed asparagus spears on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Bake until the salmon is cooked through and the asparagus is tender-crisp. This flavorful and nutritious meal requires minimal prep and cleanup, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Wrap-Up
Busy weeknights don’t have to mean sacrificing a delicious home-cooked meal. With these easy and quick recipes in your repertoire, you can whip up satisfying dinners in no time. Whether you opt for a one-pan chicken and veggie dish, a speedy stir-fry, a 15-minute pasta with pesto, or a simple sheet pan salmon with asparagus, these recipes are sure to make your evenings a little less stressful and a lot more delicious. Next time you find yourself short on time, give one of these recipes a try and enjoy a tasty meal without the hassle.
