10 Quick & Easy Recipes for Busy Weeknights

1. One-Pan Garlic Lemon Chicken

This dish is a flavorful combination of tender chicken, tangy lemon, and aromatic garlic. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sauté them in olive oil, then add lemon juice and chicken broth. Simmer until the chicken is cooked through. Serve with your choice of veggies for a complete meal, with the bonus of only one pan to clean.

2. 15-Minute Shrimp Stir Fry

Start by slicing bell peppers and onions, which cook quickly and add vibrant color. In a skillet, stir-fry shrimp with garlic and soy sauce for just a few minutes, then throw in the vegetables. This dish is packed with flavor and can be served over rice or noodles for a satisfying dinner in no time.

3. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

A classic Italian dish that's both simple and delicious, spaghetti aglio e olio requires just a handful of ingredients. Cook spaghetti, then sauté minced garlic in olive oil, adding red pepper flakes. Toss the pasta with the oil mixture and finish with chopped parsley and grated parmesan for an indulgent, quick meal.

4. Black Bean Tacos with Avocado

For a meatless Monday option, these tacos are a snap. Heat a can of black beans with cumin and chili powder. Serve the beans in corn tortillas, topped with sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of cilantro. Complement with lime wedges for a flavorful and refreshing bite.

5. Quick Beef Stir-Fry

This beef stir-fry is a delightful way to enjoy tender strips of beef and crisp vegetables. Slice beef and marinate briefly in soy sauce and ginger. Stir-fry in a hot pan, adding broccoli and bell peppers. Serve this vibrant dish over steamed rice for a quick and nutritious supper.

6. Caprese Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Your favorite classic grilled cheese gets an upgrade with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. Layer these ingredients between slices of sourdough bread, grill until golden, and serve with a side of tomato soup for a comforting and quick dinner.

7. Zucchini and Corn Fritters

These fritters are great for using up seasonal zucchini. Grate zucchini and mix with corn kernels, flour, eggs, and cheese. Pan-fry spoonfuls of the mixture until golden brown, and serve with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for an easy vegetarian meal.

8. Easy Chicken Quesadillas

With just tortillas, shredded chicken, cheese, and any fillings you desire, chicken quesadillas come together fast. Fill tortillas with the mixture, cook in a hot skillet until the cheese melts, and tortillas are crispy. Serve with sour cream or salsa for dipping.

9. Salmon with Dill and Yogurt Sauce

Pan-seared salmon fillets topped with a fresh dill and yogurt sauce make a healthy and delicious meal. Cook the salmon until the skin is crispy, and blend yogurt, lemon juice, and dill for the sauce. Serve with a side of roasted potatoes or salad for a quick yet elegant dinner.

10. Vegetable Fried Rice

Make use of leftover rice with this quick fried rice dish. Sauté garlic, ginger, and mixed vegetables, then stir in cold rice, soy sauce, and a beaten egg. Cook until the rice is hot and the egg is fully incorporated for a satisfying meal that reduces waste and satisfies hunger.

These ten recipes are perfect for weeknights when time and energy are in short supply. They're crafted to bring you delightful flavors and sufficient nutrition in minimal cooking time, so you can enjoy wholesome meals without the stress of an elaborate cooking process.