Life can get pretty hectic sometimes, and it’s not always easy to find the time or energy to cook a full meal from scratch. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student with a packed schedule, or a parent juggling work and family responsibilities, having some quick and easy recipes in your arsenal can be a lifesaver. In this article, we’ll share some simple recipes that you can whip up in no time, without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.
Easy Recipes When You Have Little Time
One-Pan Pasta
Pasta is a staple for many households, but boiling the pasta and then preparing a separate sauce can be time-consuming. This recipe simplifies the process by cooking the pasta and sauce all in one pan. To make one-pan pasta, start by adding one pound of spaghetti or linguine to a large pot. Then, add 4 cups of water, 1 chopped onion, 4 cloves of garlic, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Stir occasionally and cook for about 10 minutes, until the pasta is cooked and the water has been absorbed.
Next, add 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is heated through. Finally, stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and some chopped fresh basil or parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Veggie Stir-Fry
Stir-fry is a quick and easy way to get a nutritious and flavorful meal on the table. To make a simple veggie stir-fry, start by chopping up your favorite vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Popular choices include broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, onions, and mushrooms. Heat some oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Once the oil is hot, add your vegetables and stir-fry for a few minutes until they’re tender but still slightly crisp.
Next, add a sauce made from 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, and 1/4 cup of water. Stir to coat the vegetables in the sauce and cook for another minute or two until the sauce thickens. Serve over rice or noodles, and enjoy!
Easy Quesadillas
Quesadillas are a simple and satisfying meal that you can make in minutes. Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle some shredded cheese on one half of the tortilla. Add your desired toppings, such as cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, or beans. Fold the tortilla in half and cook for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
Flip the quesadilla and cook the other side until it’s golden brown. Remove from the skillet and cut into wedges. Serve with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
Sheet Pan Chicken and Veggies
Sheet pan meals are a great way to get a balanced and flavorful meal on the table with minimal effort. To make a sheet pan chicken and veggie meal, start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Place some chicken breasts or thighs on one side of a baking sheet, and your favorite vegetables on the other side. Popular choices include broccoli, bell peppers, sweet potatoes, and zucchini.
Drizzle some olive oil over everything, and season with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. Toss everything together to coat, and then bake for about 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Egg Fried Rice
Fried rice is a versatile and delicious dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients. For an easy and protein-packed version, try making egg fried rice. Start by cooking some rice according to the package instructions. While the rice is cooking, beat 2-3 eggs in a bowl and set aside. Heat some oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the beaten eggs and scramble them until they’re cooked through. Remove the eggs from the wok and set aside. Add some chopped vegetables, such as onions, peas, and carrots, to the wok and stir-fry for a few minutes until they’re tender.
Add the cooked rice to the wok and stir-fry for another minute or two until everything is heated through. Return the scrambled eggs to the wok and stir to combine. Season with soy sauce, sesame oil, and salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Avocado Toast
Avocado toast is a popular breakfast or snack option that’s both easy and nutritious. Start by toasting a slice of bread to your desired level of crispiness. While the bread is toasting, slice an avocado in half and remove the pit. Use a fork to mash the avocado in a small bowl.
Once the toast is done, spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast. Top with your favorite ingredients, such as sliced tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, or a poached egg. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy!