Title: 20 Delicious Easy Fast Recipes for Busy Nights
Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for speed? Do you find yourself reaching for takeout menus or relying on microwaveable meals when you’re short on time? Fear not! We’ve got a solution that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Our collection of 20 delicious, fast, and easy recipes is designed to save your taste buds (and your sanity) on even the busiest of nights.
From savory pasta dishes to fresh and healthy salads, we’ve rounded up the best of the best to keep you fueled and satisfied without sacrificing quality or taste. And the best part? Each recipe can be whipped up in 15 minutes or less, making them perfect for busy professionals, parents, or anyone looking for a quick culinary fix.
Stay tuned for our top picks and get ready to spice up your dinner routine!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
This creamy pasta dish is a perfect blend of flavors, featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce and served with linguine.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for 1 minute. Then, add heavy cream and stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and garlic butter sauce in a large serving bowl. Toss to coat.
6. Add cooked shrimp to the pasta and toss gently to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
5-Minute Avocado Toast
Boost your morning routine with this 5-minute Avocado Toast recipe, packed with creamy goodness and a touch of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices whole grain bread (toasted)
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon juice, red pepper flakes, or feta cheese for added zest
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado evenly onto each slice of toast.
3. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add optional toppings if desired (e.g., squeeze lemon juice, sprinkle red pepper flakes, or crumble feta cheese).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken
This recipe combines the brightness of lemon zest with the richness of garlic, all in one pan. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add lemon juice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return chicken to the pan, nestling it among the sauce.
6. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Garnish with sliced lemon, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Quick and Easy Stir-Fry Noodles
A flavorful and speedy meal that’s ready in under 15 minutes! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of noodles (linguine or rice noodles work well)
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: protein of your choice (chicken, beef, tofu)
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened (about 2 minutes).
4. Add mixed vegetables; cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
5. Add cooked noodles, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry until everything is well combined.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, adding your choice of protein if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
15-Minute Black Bean Quesadillas
Elevate your snack game with these flavorful and easy-to-make black bean quesadillas. Ready in just 15 minutes, they’re perfect for a quick lunch or satisfying hunger on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 small tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the black beans and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re heated through.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
4. Spoon about half of the black bean mixture onto half of the tortilla.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the other side is also crispy.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Speedy Tomato Basil Soup
This classic soup recipe is a perfect blend of flavors, with the sweetness of tomatoes and the freshness of basil. Ready in under 30 minutes, this speedy tomato basil soup is a great option for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes, basil leaves, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender) to puree the soup to desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Breakfast Burritos
Start your day with a delicious and convenient breakfast burrito packed with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 eggs
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced bell peppers, chopped cilantro, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the bacon in a pan over medium heat until crispy.
3. Scramble the eggs in a separate bowl and set aside.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the burritos by placing scrambled eggs, cooked bacon, and shredded cheese onto each tortilla.
6. Add optional toppings as desired.
7. Roll up the burritos tightly and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fast Caprese Salad
Fresh and flavorful, this classic Italian salad is a perfect side dish or light lunch. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious Caprese salad ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 3 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Arrange the tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Top each tomato slice with a round of mozzarella cheese.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad in a zig-zag pattern.
4. Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the salad in a similar pattern.
5. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves, if using, over the salad.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just assemble and serve!)
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this quick and easy recipe that yields a creamy, cheesy macaroni dish in just minutes. The Instant Pot makes it possible to cook pasta to perfection while melting the cheese to a velvety smoothness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add the macaroni, salt, and pepper. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
6. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 4 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
7. Open the valve and quick-release any remaining steam.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 14 minutes
Rapid Veggie Omelette
A quick and easy breakfast or snack option that packs a nutritious punch! Whip up this flavorful omelette with your favorite veggies and have it ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup mixed veggies (bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, spinach)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk together with a fork.
2. Heat the butter in a small non-stick pan over medium heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and cook for about 30 seconds, until the edges start to set.
4. Add your favorite veggies and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Use a spatula to gently lift and fold the omelette in thirds.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the eggs are almost set and the cheese is melted (if using).
7. Slide the omelette onto a plate and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Simple Tuna Salad Wraps
Get ready for a quick and delicious lunch or snack with these easy-to-make tuna salad wraps!
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of chopped onion
– 1 tablespoon of chopped celery
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– 4 whole wheat tortilla wraps
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the tuna, mayonnaise, onion, and celery until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Lay out a tortilla wrap and place about 1/4 cup of the tuna salad mixture onto the center of the wrap.
4. Add a lettuce leaf on top of the tuna salad.
5. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the wrap up tightly.
Cooking Time: None! These wraps are ready in minutes.
Enjoy your tasty and easy-to-make Simple Tuna Salad Wraps!
Speedy Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Speedy Spaghetti Aglio e Olio: A classic Italian recipe that’s quick to make and packed with flavor! This spicy and savory dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3-4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Add the thinly sliced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
4. If using red pepper flakes, add them to the skillet and stir well.
5. Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the garlic and oil mixture.
6. Toss everything together until the spaghetti is well coated with the garlicky sauce.
7. Season with salt to taste, then serve hot garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Chicken Fajitas
Savor the flavors of a classic Tex-Mex dish with this speedy recipe that’s ready in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized strips
– 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
– 1/2 cup sliced onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon fajita seasoning (or chili powder and cumin)
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, bell peppers, onions, and garlic; cook for 5-6 minutes or until vegetables are tender and chicken is cooked through.
3. Add fajita seasoning (or chili powder and cumin); stir to combine.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble fajitas by placing cooked chicken and vegetable mixture onto tortillas.
6. Serve with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Easy Egg Fried Rice
Quickly whip up a delicious and satisfying meal with this simple recipe for Easy Egg Fried Rice. Perfect as a snack or main course, it’s a great way to use up leftover rice and veggies.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; stir-fry until softened.
3. Push the mixture aside, creating a well in the center of the pan.
4. Pour the beaten eggs into the well; scramble until cooked through.
5. Mix the eggs with the onion-garlic mixture.
6. Add the mixed vegetables, cooked rice, and soy sauce; stir-fry until combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fast Greek Yogurt Pancakes
Start your day with a delicious and healthy twist on traditional pancakes using Greek yogurt! These fluffy treats are packed with protein, calcium, and a hint of tanginess from the yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon milk
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together yogurt, egg, and milk until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Grease the pan with butter or oil.
6. Using 1/4 cup measuring cups, scoop batter onto the pan.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on number of pancakes)
10-Minute Hummus Wrap
A flavorful and healthy snack that’s ready in no time! This recipe combines creamy hummus with crispy pita bread and fresh veggies for a satisfying wrap.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large pita bread
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth.
2. Heat the olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Place the pita bread in the pan for 30 seconds on each side, or until slightly toasted.
3. Spread about 1/4 cup of hummus on each pita half. Top with cucumber and red bell pepper slices.
4. Serve immediately and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Rapid Mushroom Risotto
A creamy, savory risotto packed with the earthy flavor of mushrooms, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with mushroom mixture.
5. If using wine, add it and cook until absorbed, stirring constantly.
6. Start adding the broth, 1 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
7. After 20-25 minutes of total cooking time, remove from heat and stir in butter.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Grilled Cheese Sandwich
A classic comfort food that’s easy to make and always a crowd pleaser. This simple grilled cheese sandwich recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1-2 slices of cheese (such as cheddar, American, or mozzarella)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Add cheese slices on top of the bread.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the cheese.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Speedy Beef Tacos
In this recipe, we’ll show you how to quickly cook beef and prepare delicious tacos with all the fixings. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or game-day gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and taco seasoning to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent and the flavors are combined (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the tacos by spooning the beef mixture onto a warmed tortilla, followed by your desired toppings.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Easy Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie
Start your day with a deliciously creamy and nutritious smoothie that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the richness of peanut butter.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tsp honey (optional)
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the bananas, peanut butter, yogurt, and milk.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add honey if desired for extra sweetness.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness or thickness to your liking.
5. Add ice cubes if you want a thicker, colder smoothie.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Summary
Looking for quick and easy recipes to save your busy nights? Look no further! This collection of 20 delicious recipes takes the stress out of cooking, offering mouthwatering dishes that can be prepared in just a few minutes. From Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta to Speedy Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, these speedy meals are perfect for those on-the-go. Whether you’re craving comfort food or a healthy snack, this article has got you covered. So go ahead and whip up one of these tasty recipes tonight!