When it comes to cooking on a busy weekday evening, it’s easy to fall into a culinary rut. But with a little creativity and some inspiration from your favorite meal kit delivery service, you can elevate even the most mundane meals into something truly special. In this article, we’re excited to share 20 flavorful Blue Apron recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights.
From comforting classics like garlic butter steak with roasted potatoes to international-inspired dishes like Thai coconut curry with jasmine rice, these recipes offer a world of flavors and possibilities. Whether you’re in the mood for something quick and easy or a little more elaborate, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Garlic Butter Steak with Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter steak with the comforting crunch of roasted potatoes. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs steak ( Ribeye or Sirloin), at room temperature
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp salt
– 0.5 tsp black pepper
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix minced garlic with softened butter.
3. Season steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Heat skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak for 3-4 minutes per side or until desired doneness. Transfer to plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
5. Toss potato wedges with a pinch of salt. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Serve steak with roasted potatoes and spoon over garlic butter sauce.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken with Couscous
A bright and citrusy twist on classic chicken, this recipe combines the flavors of lemon, herbs, and garlic with a fluffy couscous base. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the lemon mixture.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook couscous according to package instructions using 2 cups of boiling water.
6. Serve chicken on top of couscous.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Lime Crema
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this mouthwatering recipe that combines succulent shrimp, spicy chipotle peppers, and creamy lime crema.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime crema (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, avocado, sour cream
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and chipotle peppers.
3. Add shrimp and toss to coat; season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with grilled shrimp, lime crema, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Ginger Soy Sauce
This recipe brings together a medley of colorful vegetables, savory soy sauce, and the warmth of ginger to create a flavorful and nutritious stir-fry. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and minced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add minced ginger and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, broccoli, and carrots. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Pasta with Parmesan
Savor the flavors of Italy with this rich and satisfying pasta dish, featuring sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and a creamy Parmesan sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or fettuccine)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start browning, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in heavy cream; stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and mushroom sauce; toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Slaw
Get ready for a flavor explosion! This classic Southern-style pulled pork sandwich recipe is easy to make and perfect for picnics, barbecues, or even just a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ rub
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 8 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Pickle slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F or oven to 275°F.
2. Rub pork shoulder with BBQ rub, making sure to coat evenly.
3. Cook pork for 8-10 hours, or until tender and easily shredded.
4. Shred pork with two forks and stir in 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce.
5. Split hamburger buns in half and toast.
6. Spoon pulled pork onto toasted buns, then top with coleslaw and pickle slices (if using).
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (or overnight)
Thai Coconut Curry with Jasmine Rice
Experience the rich flavors of Thailand with this creamy curry dish served over fragrant jasmine rice. This recipe is a perfect blend of spices, coconut milk, and fresh vegetables, making it a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups jasmine rice
– 2 teaspoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until sauce thickens.
6. Season with fish sauce (if using), salt, and pepper.
7. Serve curry over cooked jasmine rice. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the richness of salmon with the brightness of asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salmon, leaving a small border around each fillet.
5. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a separate baking sheet.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until salmon is cooked through and asparagus is tender.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil and sauté the onion and garlic for 1 minute.
4. Add the broccoli to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
5. Return the beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad with Feta
A refreshing and flavorful salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this Mediterranean Chickpea Salad with Feta combines the creamy tang of feta cheese with the nutty sweetness of chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, feta cheese, red onion, parsley, and garlic.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and squeeze with lemon juice.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pesto Chicken with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and colorful recipe that combines the richness of pesto with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a busy evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together pesto, olive oil, and garlic.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the pesto mixture.
4. Roast the cherry tomatoes on a separate baking sheet with olive oil, salt, and pepper for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
5. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve the chicken with roasted cherry tomatoes and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Korean Beef Bibimbap with Gochujang
Savor the flavors of Korea with this iconic rice bowl dish, featuring tender beef and a savory sauce made with gochujang. This recipe is a twist on the classic, adding an extra layer of depth and spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp gochujang
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tsp sugar
– 2 tsp sesame oil
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (zucchini, carrots, bell peppers)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– Cooked white rice
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil.
2. Add the sliced beef to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated beef for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a separate pan, cook the mixed vegetables with a pinch of salt and pepper until tender.
5. Divide cooked rice into individual bowls. Arrange the beef and vegetables on top.
6. Garnish with green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Enchiladas
Elevate your Mexican-inspired meal game with this flavorful recipe that combines roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, and savory spices. A perfect blend of comfort food and international flair.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6 corn tortillas
– 1 cup enchilada sauce
– Shredded cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast sweet potatoes and onion for 20 minutes.
3. Add bell pepper and garlic; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high. Cook black beans until slightly browned.
5. To assemble enchiladas, lay tortillas flat and spoon sweet potato mixture onto each one.
6. Roll up and place seam-side down in baking dish.
7. Pour enchilada sauce over rolled tortillas and sprinkle with cheese (if using).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce
Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of pan-seared scallops paired with a rich lemon butter sauce, perfect for a quick yet impressive dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Pat scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
3. Add butter to the preheated pan and let it melt. Arrange scallops in a single layer, leaving space between each one.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust.
5. Flip scallops and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
7. Remove scallops from pan and place on a plate. Spoon the lemon butter sauce over the top of each scallop.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (includes cooking time for scallops)
Moroccan Spiced Lamb with Couscous
Experience the vibrant flavors of Morocco with this aromatic lamb dish served over a bed of fluffy couscous.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water or lamb broth
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together olive oil, cumin, paprika, coriander, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add the lamb pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Cook the couscous according to package instructions using water or lamb broth.
5. Remove the lamb from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Place the lamb on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve the lamb over the couscous and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Tofu with Bok Choy
A classic Asian-inspired dish gets a delicious twist with this easy-to-make recipe featuring tender tofu and crisp bok choy.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 bunch bok choy, cleaned and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
3. Place tofu cubes in a shallow dish and brush with the glaze mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange tofu cubes.
5. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped bok choy and cook for 2-3 minutes or until wilted.
7. Serve the teriyaki glazed tofu alongside sautéed bok choy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Beef Burgers with Caramelized Onions
A timeless favorite, these classic beef burgers are elevated by the sweet and savory flavors of caramelized onions. A perfect combination for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 hamburger buns
– 8 oz ground beef
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, cheese, pickles
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Gently flatten each ball into a patty about 3/4-inch thick.
4. Brush the grill or grill pan with olive oil to prevent sticking. Grill the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, cook the sliced onions in a large skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown (about 20-25 minutes).
6. Assemble the burgers by spreading a spoonful of caramelized onions on each patty, followed by any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Quinoa
This vibrant and flavorful dish combines succulent shrimp with a zesty lemon garlic sauce, served atop a bed of nutty quinoa. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet; set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium; add lemon juice, white wine (if using), chicken broth, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Simmer sauce for 2-3 minutes, until slightly thickened.
7. Return shrimp to skillet; toss with sauce to coat.
8. Serve over cooked quinoa.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ratatouille with Fresh Basil
This classic Provençal dish is a staple of French cuisine, showcasing the rich flavors of roasted vegetables and fragrant fresh basil. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, this ratatouille recipe is perfect for a warm-weather gathering or as a side dish to accompany your favorite grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss eggplant, zucchini, and bell pepper with garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 30 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
5. Stir in chopped basil and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve warm, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Chocolate Chip Cookies with Sea Salt
Elevate your cookie game with the perfect combination of rich chocolate and flaky sea salt.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 tbsp flaky sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by chocolate chips.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in flaky sea salt.
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Discover delicious and quick recipes for busy weeknights with Blue Apron! This collection features 20 mouthwatering dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic comfort foods like garlic butter steak and creamy mushroom pasta, to international flavors like Thai coconut curry and Moroccan spiced lamb, there’s something for everyone. Each recipe is carefully crafted to be easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re a busy professional or a family on-the-go, these recipes will become new favorites in no time!