Dinner doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming, even on busy weeknights. With a few simple, whole food ingredients and some creative combinations, you can have a delicious and nutritious meal on the table in no time. Here are 10 easy recipes to try when you’re short on time but big on hunger.
1. Veggie Stir-Fry with Brown Rice
This classic dish is a weeknight winner. Chop up some bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and onions, and toss them in a wok or large pan with a little olive oil. Stir-fry until crisp-tender, then add in your favorite stir-fry sauce and some pre-cooked brown rice. Serve it up with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
2. One-Pan Roasted Veggies and Chicken
Line a baking sheet with foil and toss on some chopped potatoes, carrots, onions, and boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with your favorite herbs and spices, and pop it in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. A hearty and healthy sheet-pan dinner with minimal cleanup – perfect!
3. Black Bean Tacos
Taco Tuesday, anyone? Simply season a can of black beans with chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder, and heat them up in a pan. Fill some corn tortillas with the beans, chopped tomatoes, avocado, and a squeeze of lime. Add some shredded cheese and sour cream if you like, and dinner is served in a flash.
4. Lemony Shrimp and Orzo
Sauté some shrimp in a pan with garlic and a squeeze of lemon juice. Meanwhile, cook some orzo pasta according to the package instructions. Toss the shrimp with the orzo, adding in some spinach leaves and a drizzle of olive oil. Top with a sprinkle of feta cheese, and you’ve got a Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s packed with flavor.
5. Veggie and Hummus Wrap
Spread some store-bought hummus onto a whole-wheat wrap, then layer on sliced bell peppers, spinach, cucumbers, and sprouts. Roll it up, and you’ve got a veggie-filled meal that’s perfect for on-the-go.
6. Chicken and Vegetable Soup
Simmer some chicken broth with chopped carrots, celery, and onions. Add in cooked, shredded chicken and a handful of small pasta shapes. In less than 30 minutes, you’ve got a comforting and hearty soup that’s perfect any time of year.
7. Baked Salmon with Asparagus
Line a baking sheet with foil and place a salmon fillet in the center. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then surround it with fresh asparagus spears. Bake at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is flaky and the asparagus is tender. A healthy, brain-boosting dinner that’s easy to clean up, too.
8. Buddha Bowl with Quinoa
Cook some quinoa and divide it among bowls. Top with roasted sweet potatoes, sautéed kale, and sliced avocado. Drizzle with a tahini dressing, and you’ve got a beautiful and Instagram-worthy dinner that’s also incredibly nutritious.
9. Pasta Primavera
Sauté onions, bell peppers, and zucchini in a pan with garlic and olive oil. Add in your favorite pasta sauce and cooked penne pasta. Stir in some grated Parmesan cheese, and dinner is served. It’s a veggie-filled twist on a classic pasta dish.
10. Chickpea Curry
Sauté an onion and some garlic, then add in a tablespoon of your favorite curry paste and a can of diced tomatoes. Rinse and drain a can of chickpeas, then add them to the pan. Simmer for about 10 minutes, then serve over cooked rice. A flavorful, plant-based dinner that’s economical, too.
There you have it – 10 delicious and easy whole food recipes to get you through those busy weeknights. With a little prep and some simple, nutritious ingredients, you can enjoy tasty, homemade meals even on your most hectic days. Bon appétit!