Finding quick, easy, and delicious dinner recipes for weeknights can be a challenge. With busy schedules and the need for convenient meals, having a go-to list of recipes can make all the difference. Here are ten mouth-watering recipes that are perfect for those hectic evenings.
1. One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken
For a simple yet flavorful meal, try the One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet.
- Add chicken breasts and cook until golden brown.
- Add garlic and lemon slices, cook for 2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This classic stir-fry combines tender beef with fresh broccoli.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
Instructions:
- Cook beef in a hot skillet until browned.
- Add broccoli and cook until tender.
- Mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch, then pour over beef and broccoli.
- Simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Shrimp Scampi Pasta
Shrimp Scampi Pasta is both elegant and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz linguine
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
Instructions:
- Cook linguine according to package instructions.
- Sauté garlic in butter until fragrant.
- Add shrimp and cook until pink.
- Stir in lemon juice and pasta.
4. Taco Salad
Taco Salad is a healthy, quick option that’s full of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef and add taco seasoning.
- Toss mixed greens, tomatoes, and cheese.
- Top with beef and a dollop of sour cream.
5. Baked Salmon with Asparagus
This Baked Salmon with Asparagus is nutritious and ready in no time.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 bunch asparagus
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Place salmon and asparagus on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Top with lemon slices and bake for 15 minutes.
6. Chicken Fajitas
Chicken Fajitas are a family favorite that’s quick to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 packet fajita seasoning
- Tortillas
Instructions:
- Sauté chicken until cooked through.
- Add bell pepper, onion, and fajita seasoning.
- Cook until vegetables are tender.
- Serve with warm tortillas.
7. Vegetable Stir-Fry
For a vegetarian option, try a vibrant Vegetable Stir-Fry.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, snap peas)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet.
- Add vegetables and stir-fry until tender.
- Stir in soy sauce and ginger.
- Cook for another 2 minutes.
8. Spaghetti Carbonara
Spaghetti Carbonara is creamy and rich, yet simple to make.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
Instructions:
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions.
- Cook bacon until crispy.
- Whisk eggs and Parmesan together.
- Toss hot pasta with bacon and egg mixture.
9. Quinoa and Black Bean Salad
This Quinoa and Black Bean Salad is both filling and refreshing.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 cup corn
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 lime, juiced
Instructions:
- Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
- Combine quinoa, black beans, corn, and cilantro.
- Drizzle with lime juice and toss.
10. Margherita Pizza
A classic Margherita Pizza can be ready in minutes with a pre-made crust.
Ingredients:
- 1 pizza crust
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
- Preheat oven according to pizza crust instructions.
- Spread tomato sauce over the crust.
- Top with mozzarella and basil.
- Bake until cheese is melted and bubbly.
These ten easy and delicious weeknight dinner recipes will simplify your meal planning and bring delightful flavors to your table. Enjoy!