{"id":4394,"date":"2025-03-31T18:54:56","date_gmt":"2025-03-31T18:54:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/recipes-for-life.com\/healthy-weeknight-recipes\/"},"modified":"2025-03-31T18:54:57","modified_gmt":"2025-03-31T18:54:57","slug":"healthy-weeknight-recipes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/recipes-for-life.com\/healthy-weeknight-recipes\/","title":{"rendered":"20 Quick Healthy Weeknight Recipes for Busy Days"},"content":{"rendered":"

When you’re short on time but still want to serve up a nutritious and delicious meal, it can be tempting to reach for takeout or a processed convenience food. But with a little creativity and some simple cooking techniques, you can whip up a healthy and satisfying dinner in no time. In fact, many of the most popular recipes out there are quick, easy, and packed with nutrients.<\/p>\n

In this article, we’ll share 20 of our favorite weeknight recipes that fit the bill – from speedy stir-fries to hearty casseroles, and even some no-cook options for those nights when you’re really short on time. Whether you’re a busy professional or a parent juggling multiple responsibilities, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household. So let’s get started!<\/p>\n

Garlic Butter Salmon with Asparagus<\/h2>\n

Garlic Butter Salmon with Asparagus
\nThis recipe yields a flavorful and moist salmon dish paired with tender asparagus, all in under 30 minutes.<\/p>\n

Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
\n– 1\/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
\n– 3 cloves garlic, minced
\n– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
\n– Salt and pepper to taste
\n– Lemon wedges, optional<\/p>\n

Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n

1. Preheat oven to 400\u00b0F (200\u00b0C).
\n2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
\n3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
\n4. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and minced garlic.
\n5. Spread the garlic butter evenly over each salmon fillet.
\n6. Arrange asparagus spears alongside the salmon.
\n7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
\n8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until salmon is cooked through.
\n9. Serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired.<\/p>\n

Cooking Time:<\/strong> 20-25 minutes<\/p>\n

One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Potatoes<\/h2>\n

One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Potatoes
\nElevate your weeknight dinner with this easy and impressive one-pan dish, featuring juicy chicken, crispy potatoes, and a burst of citrusy flavor.<\/p>\n

Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
\n– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1\/2-inch wedges
\n– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
\n– 2 tbsp olive oil
\n– 2 cloves garlic, minced
\n– 1 tsp dried thyme
\n– Salt and pepper to taste
\n– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)<\/p>\n

Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n

1. Preheat oven to 400\u00b0F (200\u00b0C).
\n2. In a large oven-safe skillet, combine chicken, potatoes, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
\n3. Toss to coat evenly, then spread out in a single layer.
\n4. Roast for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and potatoes are tender.
\n5. Garnish with parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!<\/p>\n

Cooking Time:<\/strong> 30-35 minutes<\/p>\n

Quinoa and Black Bean Stuffed Peppers<\/h2>\n

Quinoa and Black Bean Stuffed Peppers
\nThis recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the earthy taste of black beans, all wrapped up in a sweet bell pepper. Perfect for a healthy and flavorful meal!<\/p>\n

Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n

– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
\n– 1 cup cooked quinoa
\n– 1 cup cooked black beans
\n– 1\/2 cup diced onion
\n– 1 minced garlic clove
\n– 1 tablespoon olive oil
\n– 1 teaspoon cumin
\n– Salt and pepper, to taste
\n– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish<\/p>\n

Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n

1. Preheat oven to 375\u00b0F (190\u00b0C).
\n2. In a medium bowl, combine quinoa, black beans, onion, garlic, and cumin.
\n3. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
\n4. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
\n5. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.<\/p>\n

Cooking Time:<\/strong> 30-35 minutes<\/p>\n

Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Salad<\/h2>\n

Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Salad
\nThis refreshing salad combines succulent shrimp with creamy avocado, crunchy veggies, and a spicy kick from the jalape\u00f1o. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a flavorful addition to your next gathering.<\/p>\n

Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
\n– 2 ripe avocados, diced
\n– 1\/2 red bell pepper, sliced
\n– 1\/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
\n– 2 tablespoons lime juice
\n– 1 tablespoon olive oil
\n– 1 jalape\u00f1o pepper, seeded and finely chopped
\n– Salt and pepper to taste<\/p>\n

Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
\n2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled shrimp, diced avocado, red bell pepper, and chopped cilantro.
\n3. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and chopped jalape\u00f1o.
\n4. Pour the dressing over the shrimp mixture and toss to combine.
\n5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
\n6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.<\/p>\n

Cooking Time:<\/strong> 10-12 minutes<\/p>\n

Turkey and Veggie Stir-Fry with Brown Rice<\/h2>\n

Turkey and Veggie Stir-Fry with Brown Rice
\nQuickly cook a flavorful and nutritious meal with this simple recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch, it’s packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.<\/p>\n

Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n

– 1 lb boneless turkey breast, sliced into thin strips
\n– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
\n– 2 cloves garlic, minced
\n– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
\n– 1 cup cooked brown rice
\n– 2 tsp soy sauce
\n– Salt and pepper to taste<\/p>\n

Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n

1. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
\n2. Add turkey strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan.
\n3. Add remaining oil, garlic, and mixed vegetables. Cook until veggies are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
\n4. Return turkey to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
\n5. Serve over cooked brown rice.<\/p>\n

Cooking Time:<\/strong> 15-20 minutes<\/p>\n

Baked Cod with Tomato and Olive Salsa<\/h2>\n

Baked Cod with Tomato and Olive Salsa
\nElevate your dinner game with this flavorful and easy-to-make baked cod recipe, paired with a vibrant tomato and olive salsa.<\/p>\n

Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n

For the cod:<\/p>\n

– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
\n– 2 tbsp olive oil
\n– 1 tsp lemon zest
\n– Salt and pepper to taste<\/p>\n

For the salsa:<\/p>\n

– 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
\n– 1\/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
\n– 2 cloves garlic, minced
\n– 1 tbsp olive oil
\n– Salt and pepper to taste
\n– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)<\/p>\n

Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n

1. Preheat oven to 400\u00b0F (200\u00b0C).
\n2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
\n3. Place cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
\n4. Drizzle olive oil over the cod, then sprinkle lemon zest and season with salt and pepper.
\n5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
\n6. Meanwhile, combine diced tomatoes, green olives, garlic, and olive oil in a bowl.
\n7. Serve baked cod with tomato and olive salsa spooned on top.<\/p>\n

Cooking Time:<\/strong> 12-15 minutes<\/p>\n

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes<\/h2>\n

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
\nThis colorful and flavorful dish is a perfect representation of summer’s sweetness, combining the simplicity of zucchini noodles with the rich flavors of pesto and sweet cherry tomatoes.<\/p>\n

Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n

– 2 medium zucchinis
\n– 1\/4 cup store-bought or homemade pesto
\n– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
\n– Salt and pepper to taste
\n– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)<\/p>\n

Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n

1. Preheat a spiralizer or use a vegetable peeler to create zucchini noodles.
\n2. In a large skillet, combine the zucchini noodles and pesto. Toss over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, until the noodles are well coated with the pesto sauce.
\n3. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and toss gently to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
\n4. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.<\/p>\n

Cooking Time:<\/strong> 10-12 minutes<\/p>\n

Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup<\/h2>\n

Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
\nWarm up with this comforting and flavorful slow cooker soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. With tender chicken, crunchy tortilla strips, and a hint of spice, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.<\/p>\n

Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
\n– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
\n– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
\n– 1 onion, chopped
\n– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
\n– 1 tsp cumin
\n– 1 tsp chili powder
\n– 1\/2 tsp paprika
\n– 1\/4 tsp cayenne pepper
\n– 1 can (16 oz) tortilla chips, crushed
\n– Salt and pepper to taste
\n– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced avocado for toppings<\/p>\n

Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n

1. Add chicken, diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper to the slow cooker.
\n2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
\n3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in crushed tortilla chips.
\n4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
\n5. Serve hot, topped with your choice of shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced avocado.<\/p>\n

Cooking Time:<\/strong> 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)<\/p>\n

Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Wraps<\/h2>\n

Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Wraps
\nA refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad, these wraps combine juicy chicken, crunchy veggies, and tangy Greek yogurt for a deliciously healthy snack or meal.<\/p>\n

Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n

– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
\n– 1\/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
\n– 1\/4 cup chopped cucumber
\n– 1\/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
\n– 1\/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
\n– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
\n– Salt and pepper to taste
\n– 6-8 whole wheat tortilla wraps
\n– Lettuce leaves, for serving (optional)<\/p>\n

Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n

1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, Greek yogurt, cucumber, bell pepper, and parsley.
\n2. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
\n3. Spoon about 1\/4 cup of the chicken mixture onto the center of each tortilla wrap.
\n4. Fold the bottom half of the wrap up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly.
\n5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.<\/p>\n

Cooking Time:<\/strong> None! This recipe is a quick assembly job, perfect for a busy day.<\/p>\n

Sheet Pan Honey Mustard Chicken and Brussels Sprouts<\/h2>\n

Sheet Pan Honey Mustard Chicken and Brussels Sprouts
\nA sweet and tangy twist on a classic combination, this sheet pan recipe is perfect for a quick and easy dinner. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, you’ll be hooked!<\/p>\n

Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
\n– 2 tbsp honey
\n– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
\n– 1 tsp olive oil
\n– Salt and pepper to taste
\n– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved<\/p>\n

Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n

1. Preheat oven to 400\u00b0F (200\u00b0C).
\n2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and mustard.
\n3. Place chicken on one half of a large sheet pan lined with parchment paper.
\n4. Drizzle the honey-mustard mixture over the chicken.
\n5. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper; spread them out on the other half of the sheet pan.
\n6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and Brussels sprouts are tender.
\n7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.<\/p>\n

Cooking Time:<\/strong> 25-30 minutes<\/p>\n

Lentil and Spinach Curry<\/h2>\n

Lentil and Spinach Curry
\nA flavorful and nutritious vegetarian curry that combines the comfort of lentils with the goodness of spinach, perfect for a weeknight dinner.<\/p>\n

Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n

– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
\n– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
\n– 2 tablespoons olive oil
\n– 1 onion, chopped
\n– 2 cloves garlic, minced
\n– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
\n– 1 teaspoon curry powder
\n– 1\/2 teaspoon turmeric
\n– Salt and pepper to taste
\n– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
\n– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)<\/p>\n

Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n

1. In a large pot, saut\u00e9 the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
\n2. Add the lentils, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
\n3. Pour in the water or broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
\n4. Stir in the spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
\n5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
\n6. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
\n7. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.<\/p>\n

Cooking Time:<\/strong> 30-35 minutes<\/p>\n

Cauliflower Fried Rice with Tofu<\/h2>\n

Cauliflower Fried Rice with Tofu
\nThis innovative recipe transforms cauliflower into a delicious substitute for rice, paired with crispy tofu and savory seasonings. Perfect for a quick and healthy dinner or lunch.<\/p>\n

Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n

– 1 head of cauliflower
\n– 1\/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
\n– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
\n– 1 small onion, diced
\n– 2 cloves garlic, minced
\n– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
\n– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
\n– Salt and pepper to taste
\n– Scallions, chopped (optional)<\/p>\n

Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n

1. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
\n2. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
\n3. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
\n4. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet.
\n5. Add onion and garlic to skillet; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
\n6. Add processed cauliflower, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 5 minutes or until cauliflower is tender.
\n7. Stir in cooked tofu and season with salt and pepper.
\n8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
\n9. Serve hot and enjoy!<\/p>\n

Cooking Time:<\/strong> Approximately 15-20 minutes.<\/p>\n

Avocado and Black Bean Quesadillas<\/h2>\n

Avocado and Black Bean Quesadillas
\nSavor the creamy texture of ripe avocados paired with the savory flavor of black beans, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla.<\/p>\n

Ingredients:
\n– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
\n– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
\n– 2 large flour tortillas
\n– 1\/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
\n– 1 tablespoon olive oil
\n– Salt and pepper to taste
\n– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)<\/p>\n

Instructions:
\n1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
\n2. In a bowl, mix together mashed avocado, black beans, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
\n3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with half of the cheese (if using).
\n4. Spoon the avocado-black bean mixture onto half of the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
\n5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
\n6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the filling is heated through.
\n7. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
\n8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
\n9. Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.<\/p>\n

Cooking Time:<\/strong> 10-12 minutes<\/p>\n

Baked Sweet Potatoes with Chickpea and Tahini Dressing<\/h2>\n

Baked Sweet Potatoes with Chickpea and Tahini Dressing
\nSweet potatoes and tahini come together in a match made in heaven! This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, paired with the nutty flavor of chickpeas and creamy tahini.<\/p>\n

Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n

– 2 large sweet potatoes
\n– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
\n– 2 tablespoons tahini
\n– 2 cloves garlic, minced
\n– 2 tablespoons olive oil
\n– Salt and pepper to taste
\n– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)<\/p>\n

Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n

1. Preheat oven to 425\u00b0F (220\u00b0C).
\n2. Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
\n3. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
\n4. Once sweet potatoes are cooked, slice them in half lengthwise and top each half with the chickpea-tahini mixture.
\n5. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with parsley or cilantro if desired.<\/p>\n

Cooking Time:<\/strong> 45-50 minutes (sweet potatoes) + 2-3 minutes to blend dressing<\/p>\n

Grilled Steak and Veggie Kebabs<\/h2>\n

Grilled Steak and Veggie Kebabs
\nElevate your outdoor cooking with this flavorful and colorful kebab recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Marinate the steak and veggies in a blend of zesty herbs and spices before grilling to perfection.<\/p>\n

Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n

– 1.5 lbs flank steak, cut into 1-inch pieces
\n– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
\n– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
\n– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
\n– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
\n– 2 tbsp olive oil
\n– 1 tsp dried oregano
\n– 1 tsp paprika
\n– Salt and pepper, to taste
\n– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes<\/p>\n

Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
\n2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
\n3. Add steak and veggies to the marinade; toss to coat evenly.
\n4. Thread marinated ingredients onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
\n5. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until steak reaches desired doneness.
\n6. Let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.<\/p>\n

Cooking Time:<\/strong> Approximately 16-20 minutes<\/p>\n

Mediterranean Chickpea and Feta Salad<\/h2>\n

Mediterranean Chickpea and Feta Salad
\nA refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the creamy richness of feta cheese with the nutty sweetness of chickpeas, all tied together with a drizzle of zesty lemon juice.<\/p>\n

Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n

– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
\n– 1\/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
\n– 1\/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
\n– 1\/4 cup chopped fresh mint
\n– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
\n– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
\n– Salt and pepper, to taste<\/p>\n

Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n

1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, feta cheese, parsley, and mint.
\n2. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the mixture, tossing gently to combine.
\n3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
\n4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
\n5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.<\/p>\n

Cooking Time:<\/strong> None needed! This salad is best served fresh.<\/p>\n

Eggplant and Mushroom Stir-Fry<\/h2>\n

Eggplant and Mushroom Stir-Fry
\nA flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the earthy sweetness of eggplant with the savory umami of mushrooms, all within a quick 15-minute cooking time.<\/p>\n

Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n

– 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
\n– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
\n– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
\n– 1 clove garlic, minced
\n– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
\n– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
\n– Salt and pepper to taste
\n– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)<\/p>\n

Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
\n2. Add the eggplant slices and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they start to soften and develop brown spots. Remove from the pan and set aside.
\n3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the mushrooms and cook for 4-5 minutes, until they release their moisture and start to brown.
\n4. Add the garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the pan. Stir-fry for an additional minute, ensuring all ingredients are well coated.
\n5. Return the eggplant slices to the pan and stir-fry everything together for 1-2 minutes, until the eggplant is tender and the mushrooms are fully cooked.
\n6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions (if desired).<\/p>\n

Cooking Time:<\/strong> 15 minutes<\/p>\n

Broccoli and Cheddar Stuffed Chicken<\/h2>\n

Broccoli and Cheddar Stuffed Chicken
\nA classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This recipe combines the tenderness of chicken breast with the richness of broccoli, cheddar cheese, and a hint of garlic.<\/p>\n

Ingredients:<\/p>\n

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
\n– 1 head of broccoli, steamed and chopped
\n– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
\n– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
\n– 1\/4 cup butter, softened
\n– Salt and pepper to taste<\/p>\n

Instructions:<\/p>\n

1. Preheat oven to 375\u00b0F (190\u00b0C).
\n2. In a bowl, mix together chopped broccoli, minced garlic, and shredded cheddar cheese.
\n3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the broccoli-cheese mixture.
\n4. Dot the top of each chicken breast with softened butter and season with salt and pepper.
\n5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165\u00b0F (74\u00b0C).
\n6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.<\/p>\n

Cooking Time:<\/strong> 30-35 minutes<\/p>\n

Quinoa Veggie Buddha Bowl<\/h2>\n

Quinoa Veggie Buddha Bowl
\nThis Quinoa Veggie Buddha Bowl recipe is a flavorful and nutritious meal that combines the nutty taste of quinoa with a colorful mix of roasted vegetables. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this bowl is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.<\/p>\n

Ingredients:<\/strong>
\n– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
\n– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
\n– 2 tablespoons olive oil
\n– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
\n– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and chopped
\n– 1 small zucchini, chopped
\n– 1 small red onion, chopped
\n– 2 cloves garlic, minced
\n– Salt and pepper to taste
\n– Optional: avocado, hummus, or feta cheese for topping<\/p>\n

Instructions:<\/strong>
\n1. Preheat oven to 400\u00b0F (200\u00b0C).
\n2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
\n3. Toss bell peppers, zucchini, onion, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
\n4. Assemble the Buddha Bowl by placing cooked quinoa in a bowl and topping with roasted vegetables.
\n5. Add your choice of avocado, hummus, or feta cheese for extra creaminess.<\/p>\n

Cooking Time:<\/strong> 30-40 minutes<\/p>\n

Spaghetti Squash with Turkey Meatballs<\/h2>\n

Spaghetti Squash with Turkey Meatballs
\nThis hearty, comforting dish combines the best of fall’s flavors – tender turkey meatballs and creamy spaghetti squash – into one satisfying meal.<\/p>\n

Ingredients:<\/strong>
\n– 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2 lbs)
\n– 1 pound ground turkey
\n– 1\/2 cup breadcrumbs
\n– 1 egg
\n– 1\/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
\n– 1 tablespoon olive oil
\n– Salt and pepper to taste
\n– Optional: marinara sauce, chopped parsley<\/p>\n

Instructions:<\/strong>
\n1. Preheat oven to 400\u00b0F (200\u00b0C).
\n2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
\n3. In a bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper; mix well.
\n4. Form into meatballs (about 12-15) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
\n5. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
\n6. Roast the spaghetti squash halves on the same baking sheet for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
\n7. Serve turkey meatballs on top of roasted spaghetti squash, with marinara sauce and chopped parsley if desired.<\/p>\n

Cooking Time:<\/strong> Approximately 45-50 minutes<\/p>\n

Summary<\/h2>\n

Get quick, healthy meals on the table even on your busiest days. These 20 recipes are perfect for weeknights and will satisfy your cravings without sacrificing nutrition. From garlic butter salmon with asparagus to quinoa and black bean stuffed peppers, there’s something for everyone. Try one-pan lemon herb chicken and potatoes, spicy shrimp and avocado salad, or sheet pan honey mustard chicken and Brussels sprouts. These recipes are easy to make and packed with flavor, so you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

When you’re short on time but still want to serve up a nutritious and delicious meal, it can be tempting to reach for takeout or a processed convenience food. But with a little creativity and some simple cooking techniques, you can whip up a healthy and satisfying dinner in no time. In fact, many of … Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":4209,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[11],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-4394","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-dinner"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/recipes-for-life.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4394","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/recipes-for-life.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/recipes-for-life.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/recipes-for-life.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/recipes-for-life.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4394"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/recipes-for-life.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4394\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4395,"href":"https:\/\/recipes-for-life.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4394\/revisions\/4395"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/recipes-for-life.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4209"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/recipes-for-life.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4394"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/recipes-for-life.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4394"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/recipes-for-life.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4394"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}