Easy Weeknight Dinners Under 30 Minutes

Weeknights can be hectic. Work, family, and other commitments often leave little time for elaborate meal preparation. But that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice delicious and nutritious food.

Here are some quick and easy weeknight dinner recipes that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes:

1. One-Pan Roasted Salmon with Veggies:

• Ingredients:

  • Salmon fillets

  • Assorted vegetables (broccoli, carrots, Brussels sprouts)

  • Olive oil

  • Lemon

  • Salt and pepper

• Instructions:

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

  • Toss salmon and vegetables with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

  • Arrange on a baking sheet in a single layer.

  • Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until salmon is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

2. Creamy Tomato Pasta with Spinach:

• Ingredients:

  • Pasta

  • Canned tomatoes

  • Garlic

  • Onion

  • Spinach

  • Cream (optional)

  • Parmesan cheese

• Instructions:

  • Cook pasta according to package directions.

  • While pasta cooks, sauté garlic and onion in olive oil.

  • Add canned tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes.

  • Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.

  • Add cream (optional) and season with salt and pepper.

  • Combine pasta with sauce and toss to coat.

  • Top with Parmesan cheese.

3. Sheet Pan Fajitas:

• Ingredients:

  • Chicken or tofu

  • Bell peppers

  • Onions

  • Fajita seasoning

  • Tortillas

  • Toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, etc.

• Instructions:

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

  • Toss chicken or tofu, bell peppers, and onions with fajita seasoning and olive oil.

  • Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.

  • Serve with tortillas and your favorite toppings.

4. Lentil Soup:

• Ingredients:

  • Lentils

  • Vegetable broth

  • Carrots

  • Celery

  • Onion

  • Garlic

  • Spices (cumin, coriander, paprika)

• Instructions:

  • Sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in olive oil.

  • Add lentils, vegetable broth, and spices.

  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.

  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

    5. Stir-Fry:

• Ingredients:

  • Protein (chicken, tofu, shrimp)

  • Vegetables (broccoli, carrots, snap peas)

  • Stir-fry sauce

  • Rice or noodles

• Instructions:

  • Cook rice or noodles according to package directions.

  • Stir-fry protein and vegetables in a wok or large skillet.

  • Add stir-fry sauce and cook until thickened.

  • Serve over rice or noodles.

Tips for Quick Weeknight Dinners:

• Meal prep: Chop vegetables and marinate proteins ahead of time.

• Use shortcuts: Utilize pre-cut vegetables, pre-made sauces, and frozen ingredients.

• Embrace leftovers: Make extra portions for easy lunches or dinners the next day.

• Don't be afraid to improvise: Adjust recipes to suit your preferences and what you have on hand.

By incorporating these quick and easy recipes into your weekly meal plan, you can enjoy delicious and nutritious meals without spending hours in the kitchen.