After a long day at work, the last thing you want to do is spend hours slaving over a hot stove to make dinner. Luckily, there are plenty of quick and easy meals you can whip up in 30 minutes or less. Here are 14 simple dinners for busy weeknights.
A stir fry is a perfect quick and healthy option for a speedy supper. Slice and dice your choice of veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, cabbage and carrots. Heat a skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Add the veggies and your favorite protein such as tofu, chicken or shrimp. Cook, stirring frequently, until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are crisp-tender. Serve over rice or noodles.
Quesadillas take just minutes to prepare and cook. Place a tortilla in a skillet over medium heat. Top with cheese, beans, salsa and any other fillings you like such as spinach, corn or grilled chicken. Place another tortilla on top and cook until the bottom is lightly browned. Carefully flip and cook the other side until the cheese is melted. Cut into wedges and serve with sour cream, guacamole, salsa or hot sauce.
Pasta primavera combines fresh vegetables and pasta for a light yet satisfying springtime meal. Sauté diced zucchini, bell peppers, broccoli, carrots and tomatoes in olive oil with garlic and Italian seasoning. Toss with cooked pasta such as penne or rotini, parmesan cheese, basil and a splash of pasta water or broth to create a light sauce. Top with more parmesan, fresh basil and cracked black pepper.
Omelets make a perfect quick dinner, especially if you have leftovers on hand to add in. Whip 2-3 eggs and cook them in a skillet with a bit of milk or water. As the bottom starts to set, use a spatula to gently push the eggs from the edge into the center, so the uncooked egg runs underneath. When nearly set, add in fillings such as cheese, ham, spinach and tomatoes. Fold one half of the omelet over the filling and cook for a minute more until the filling is hot.
A sandwich or wrap is always a good option for a quick weeknight meal. Load up bread, rolls or tortillas with leftovers such as sliced chicken, beef or pork, grilled vegetables, beans, rice or salad greens. Top with cheese, spreads like hummus or tzatziki and condiments such as mustard, mayonnaise or chili sauce. Grill the sandwich in a pan with some butter for a hot, melty meal.
