Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen, only to end up with a mediocre meal? Look no further! This collection of 20 quick and delicious recipes will show you that cooking doesn’t have to be a time-consuming ordeal. With ingredients straight from your pantry, you’ll be whipping up mouth-watering dishes in no time.
From comforting pasta dishes to flavorful stir-fries, these recipes cater to all tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re a busy professional or a mom on-the-go, this article is sure to inspire you to get cooking and start enjoying the fruits of your labor.
Stay tuned for the full list of recipes, including Garlic Butter Pasta with Parmesan, One-Pot Tomato Basil Soup, and many more!
Garlic Butter Pasta with Parmesan
This classic Italian-inspired pasta dish is a simple yet satisfying meal that combines the richness of garlic butter with the nutty flavor of Parmesan cheese. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can have a delicious and comforting dinner ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the garlic butter sauce.
4. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Tomato Basil Soup
A classic comfort soup made with fresh tomatoes, basil, and a hint of creaminess, all cooked to perfection in just one pot!
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the fresh tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes), broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in the dried basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Easy Homemade Pizza Dough
Make delicious homemade pizza dough with just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort. This recipe yields a soft, chewy crust that’s perfect for topping with your favorite ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the yeast is activated.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and shape into desired pizza form.
Cooking Time:
– Baking time: 12-15 minutes
5-Minute Microwave Mug Cake
Quick Treat Alert: Whip Up a Decadent Mug Cake in Just 5 Minutes!
Avocado Toast with Chili Flakes
Elevate your breakfast game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines creamy avocado with a kick of heat from chili flakes. Perfect for a quick and satisfying morning meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 2 slices whole grain bread
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Mash the avocados in a bowl and stir in salt, black pepper, and chili flakes.
3. Spread the avocado mixture onto the toast slices.
4. Drizzle with lemon juice and top with cherry tomatoes, if using.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Quick Stir-Fried Veggies with Soy Sauce
In just a few minutes, you can whip up a delicious and nutritious stir-fry using your favorite vegetables and a savory soy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, mushrooms)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic, ginger, or chili flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften.
3. Add the soy sauce and stir-fry for another minute, coating the vegetables evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add garlic, ginger, or chili flakes for extra flavor.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Simple Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Moist and delicious, these banana oatmeal cookies are a perfect treat for any time of the day. With the natural sweetness of bananas and the nutty flavor of oats, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, mash bananas and mix in butter until smooth. Beat in egg.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Balls
A no-fuss, no-bake recipe perfect for a quick energy boost or a healthy snack on-the-go. These bite-sized treats are packed with nutritious ingredients and a delicious peanut butter flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chia seeds
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, and honey. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in chia seeds and chocolate chips.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 energy balls.
4. Place the energy balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or tray.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake energy balls are ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Balls!
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
A classic comfort food recipe that’s quick, easy, and delicious! This Instant Pot recipe yields a flavorful dish with tender chicken and creamy rice, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white or brown rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot.
2. Add the rice to the pot and stir to coat with the remaining oil. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return the chicken to the pot, making sure it’s covered by the liquid.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” and cook for 6-8 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 16-18 minutes
Speedy Tuna Salad Wrap
This recipe is a quick and refreshing way to get your daily dose of protein and omega-3s from canned tuna. With only 5 ingredients, you can have this delicious wrap ready in under 10 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
– 1/2 cup of mixed greens
– 1/4 cup of diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise
– 1 whole wheat tortilla wrap
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the tuna and mayonnaise. Mix well until the tuna is fully coated.
2. Add the mixed greens and diced cucumber to the bowl and mix gently to combine.
3. Lay the tortilla wrap flat on a clean surface.
4. Spoon the tuna salad mixture onto the center of the wrap, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the bottom half of the wrap up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the wrap into a neat cylinder.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just 5-7 minutes from start to finish.
3-Ingredient Pancakes
Simplify your breakfast routine with this straightforward recipe that requires only three ingredients: eggs, flour, and milk. Whip up a batch of fluffy pancakes in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup milk
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and flour until smooth.
2. Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
3. The batter should still be slightly thick; adjust as needed.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the batter onto the pan.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per batch
Yield: Approximately 8-10 pancakes
Microwave Scrambled Eggs
Start your day with a fluffy and delicious breakfast that’s ready in just minutes! This recipe is perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter or non-stick cooking spray
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Add the butter or non-stick cooking spray and whisk the eggs until they’re well beaten.
3. Microwave on high for 30-45 seconds, or until the eggs are almost set.
4. Remove from the microwave and use a fork to scramble the eggs to your desired doneness.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– 30-45 seconds
Fast and Fresh Greek Salad
Enjoy a classic Greek salad with all the fixings in no time! This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that’s packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, spinach)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, feta cheese, and red onion.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar; toss to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp
Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that’s ready in just 10 minutes! This Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
6. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss with garlic butter until well coated.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
8. Garnish with parsley leaves (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Easy Homemade Hummus
Easy Homemade Hummus Recipe
Transform plain vegetables or crackers into a flavorful snack with this simple and delicious homemade hummus recipe. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying creamy and healthy dip in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. With the blender or food processor running, slowly add the olive oil and water.
4. Continue blending until the hummus reaches your desired consistency.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 5 minutes
– Cook time: None (just blend!)
– Total time: 5 minutes
One-Pan Lemon Garlic Salmon
Brighten up your dinner plate with this flavorful and easy-to-make One-Pan Lemon Garlic Salmon recipe. A perfect combination of zesty lemon, savory garlic, and tender salmon, all in one pan!
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large skillet or sauté pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets in the prepared pan, leaving some space between each piece.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon, then sprinkle with minced garlic and lemon juice.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
5-Minute Guacamole
Get ready to enjoy a fresh and creamy dip with this simple 5-Minute Guacamole recipe! With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch perfect for snacking, parties, or game days.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a large bowl, use a fork to mash the avocado halves until mostly smooth.
3. Add the chopped red onion, lime juice, and minced garlic to the mashed avocado.
4. Stir until well combined and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just 5 minutes!
Speedy Black Bean Quesadilla
This recipe makes a deliciously quick and easy quesadilla filled with black beans, cheese, and spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: salsa, sour cream, avocado
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the black beans and cook for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
5. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with cheese.
6. Spoon the bean mixture onto half of the tortilla and fold to enclose.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
9. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Simple Caprese Sandwich
A classic Italian-inspired sandwich that combines sweet and savory flavors. Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil come together for a delicious and easy-to-make snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably Italian-style or Ciabatta)
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Place two slices of bread on the press or grill.
3. Top each slice with a tomato half, a mozzarella slice, and a sprinkle of olive oil.
4. Add a few fresh basil leaves if desired.
5. Close the press or place the other two bread slices on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Fast Chocolate Pudding
Need a sweet treat in a hurry? This fast chocolate pudding recipe is the perfect solution! With just a few ingredients and a short cooking time, you’ll have a rich and creamy dessert ready to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate, melted
– Whipped cream or chocolate shavings for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, cocoa powder, sugar, and cornstarch.
2. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the pudding thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in melted chocolate until smooth.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Refrigerate until chilled, about 2 hours.
7. Top with whipped cream or chocolate shavings, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to whip up a storm with these 20 quick recipes that use ingredients straight from your pantry! From satisfying pasta dishes and comforting soups, to sweet treats and savory snacks, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to make garlic butter pasta with parmesan, one-pot tomato basil soup, easy homemade pizza dough, and many more mouthwatering meals in just a few minutes. Perfect for busy days or unexpected guests, these recipes will become your new go-to’s for a delicious meal on the fly.