Need some quick and tasty meal ideas for your weeknights? We’ve got three easy recipes that you can whip up in under 30 minutes! With step-by-step images to guide you, plus detailed ingredient shots and a mouthwatering final dish reveal, cooking dinner just got a whole lot simpler—and more fun!
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese
This creamy tomato basil soup paired with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich is a classic that never goes out of style. It’s rich, comforting, and bursting with flavor, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Making this dish is simple and requires just a few ingredients. The soup is smooth and flavorful, while the grilled cheese adds that satisfying crunch. Together, they create a delightful meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Ingredients
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices of bread
- 4 slices of cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- Butter for grilling
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and dried basil. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let cook for about 15 minutes.
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer to a blender in batches.
- Stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm on low heat.
- In a skillet, butter one side of each slice of bread. Place cheese between two slices, buttered side out. Grill on medium heat until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Serve the soup hot with the grilled cheese on the side. Enjoy!
Caprese Chicken with Balsamic Glaze
Caprese Chicken with Balsamic Glaze is a delightful dish that brings the classic flavors of a Caprese salad right to your dinner plate. Juicy chicken breasts are topped with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. This dish is simple to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
The combination of fresh ingredients creates a light and refreshing meal that’s packed with flavor. In under 30 minutes, you can serve up a restaurant-quality dinner that will impress your family or guests!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown.
- Add Toppings: Once cooked, place slices of fresh mozzarella on top of each chicken breast. Cover the skillet for a few minutes to melt the cheese.
- Prepare the Garnish: While the cheese melts, toss the halved cherry tomatoes with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Assemble the Dish: Remove the chicken from the skillet and top with fresh basil leaves, the seasoned tomatoes, and a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.
Quick Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
This Quick Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the freshness of shrimp with the bright zing of lemon. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight when you want something quick yet satisfying. The garlic adds a rich flavor that complements the shrimp beautifully, making it a hit for both family dinners and casual gatherings.
With minimal ingredients and steps, this pasta dish can be on your table in under 30 minutes. The lemon juice brings a refreshing touch, while the garlic provides warmth, making this meal a favorite for any seafood lover.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of linguine or spaghetti
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a kick
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through.
- Add Lemon: Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped parsley. If using, add red pepper flakes for a little heat. Mix well.
- Combine: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the shrimp mixture. If the pasta seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
- Season: Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side if desired.
15-Minute Vegetable Stir-Fry
Looking for a quick and wholesome dinner option? This 15-minute vegetable stir-fry is your answer! Bursting with colorful veggies and packed with flavor, this dish is not only healthy but also incredibly easy to make. Perfect for busy weeknights, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
The sweet crunch of bell peppers, the freshness of carrots, and the savory notes of soy sauce come together beautifully. Plus, you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or protein!
Ingredients
- 1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup firm tofu, cubed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the sliced bell peppers, julienned carrots, and broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crisp.
- Incorporate the cubed tofu and soy sauce, tossing everything together for another 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Serve over cooked rice or noodles for a complete meal.
One-Pan Teriyaki Salmon and Broccoli
This One-Pan Teriyaki Salmon and Broccoli is a quick and tasty dinner option that’s packed with flavor. The combination of tender salmon, vibrant broccoli, and a rich teriyaki glaze creates a delightful meal that’s sure to impress. Plus, cooking everything in one pan makes cleanup a breeze!
In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a healthy, satisfying dish that brings together the savory notes of teriyaki sauce and the crunch of fresh vegetables. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is simple and straightforward, making it ideal for any home cook.
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cooked noodles (your choice)
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then place them in the pan, skin-side down.
- Cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes, then carefully flip it over.
- Add the broccoli florets to the pan, along with the teriyaki sauce. Cover and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and the broccoli is tender.
- Meanwhile, warm the cooked noodles in a separate pot or microwave.
- To serve, place the salmon and broccoli over the noodles, drizzle with extra teriyaki sauce if desired, and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Enjoy!
Vegetarian Quesadillas with Peppers and Cheese
These vegetarian quesadillas are a quick and tasty option for any weeknight dinner. Packed with colorful bell peppers and gooey cheese, they deliver a satisfying crunch with every bite. Plus, they’re super easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy evenings when you want something delicious without all the fuss.
With a lovely blend of flavors and textures, these quesadillas can be customized to your liking. Serve them with salsa or guacamole on the side for a little extra zest. Your family will love them, and you’ll enjoy how simple they are to whip up!
Ingredients
- 4 flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Salsa or guacamole for serving
Instructions
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened. Season with salt and pepper.
- Lay a tortilla in the skillet, then sprinkle half of it with cheese. Add a portion of the cooked peppers and onions on top, and fold the tortilla over.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden and the cheese is melted. Remove from the skillet and repeat with remaining tortillas.
- Slice the quesadillas into wedges and serve with fresh cilantro and salsa or guacamole.
Spicy Chicken Tacos with Avocado Salsa
These spicy chicken tacos are a fantastic weeknight meal that comes together in no time. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a dish that’s packed with flavor and a bit of heat, thanks to the spices used on the chicken. The fresh avocado salsa adds a cool contrast and a vibrant touch to each bite.
Perfect for busy evenings, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also fun to customize. You can add your favorite toppings or change the spice level to suit your taste. These tacos are sure to be a hit with your family!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the diced chicken, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned.
- Prepare the Salsa: In a bowl, combine the diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, and lime juice. Gently mix to combine and season with salt.
- Warm the Tortillas: In a dry skillet, warm the tortillas over low heat for about 30 seconds on each side until pliable.
- Assemble the Tacos: To each tortilla, add a portion of the spicy chicken and top with avocado salsa. Garnish with extra cilantro if desired.
- Serve: Enjoy your tacos fresh with lime wedges on the side!
Easy Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This beef and broccoli stir-fry is a quick and flavorful dish that brings the taste of the takeout right into your kitchen! With tender beef and crisp broccoli tossed in a savory sauce, it’s a meal your family will love.
Making it is a breeze—perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something tasty in under 30 minutes. Pair it with rice for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and water. Set aside.
- Cook the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, around 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Veggies: In the same skillet, add the remaining oil and toss in the garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the broccoli. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still crisp.
- Combine Everything: Return the beef to the skillet and pour the sauce over. Stir well to coat everything evenly, cooking for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Serve: Spoon the beef and broccoli stir-fry over cooked rice and enjoy your delicious weeknight dinner!
Zesty Chickpea Salad with Lemon Dressing
This Zesty Chickpea Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Packed with protein from the chickpeas and loads of colorful veggies, it’s not only healthy but also incredibly satisfying. The bright lemon dressing ties everything together, giving it a refreshing zing that will make your taste buds sing!
Preparing this salad is a breeze, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, leftovers are great for lunch the next day!
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and parsley.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Serve: Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, then serve fresh. Enjoy!
Egg Fried Rice with Peas and Carrots
Egg fried rice with peas and carrots is a delightful, simple dish that’s packed with flavor and color. It combines fluffy rice with tender vegetables, making it a great choice for a quick weeknight meal.
This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it as a main dish or as a side. Its mild taste pairs well with various proteins and sauces, creating endless delicious possibilities!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup peas and carrots (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the peas and carrots, sautéing until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- Push the vegetables to one side and crack the eggs into the pan. Scramble until fully cooked, then mix with the veggies.
- Add the cooked rice, soy sauce, and green onions. Stir well, ensuring everything is evenly combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful egg fried rice!
