1. Easy Pesto Pasta
This simple pasta dish is bursting with flavor thanks to the homemade pesto and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook your pasta of choice according to the package instructions. While it’s cooking, blend together 2 cups of fresh basil leaves, 1/2 cup of pine nuts, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/3 cup of olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Once your pasta is drained, toss it with 1/4 cup of the pesto and top with chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
2. One-Pan Lemon Chicken and Rice
A complete meal in just one pan? Yes, please! Start by heating some oil in a large skillet, then add diced onion and garlic. Cook for a few minutes until softened, then add boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Add in 1 cup of chicken broth, 1 cup of white rice, the juice of 1 lemon, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low. Let simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
3. Grilled Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
Impress your dinner guests with this flavorful steak recipe. Brush your steak with a little bit of oil and season with salt and pepper. Preheat your grill or grill pan to high heat, then grill the steak for about 3-4 minutes on each side (for medium-rare). While the steak is cooking, make the chimichurri sauce by blending together 1 cup of fresh parsley, 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro, 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar, 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 garlic cloves, and a pinch of salt in a food processor. Once the steak is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and topping with the chimichurri sauce.
4. Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas
Quesadillas are a quick and easy meal that everyone loves. Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 can of drained and rinsed black beans, 1 cup of frozen corn, 1 diced red bell pepper, and 1 diced jalapeño pepper. Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables are softened. Spread some of the mixture onto half of a large tortilla, then top with shredded cheese. Fold the tortilla in half and cook in the skillet for a couple of minutes on each side until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
5. Smoky Tomato Soup
There’s nothing like a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day. Start by heating some oil in a large pot, then sauté 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves until fragrant. Add in 2 cans of fire-roasted tomatoes, 2 cups of vegetable broth, 1 tsp of smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let simmer for 10-15 minutes, then use an immersion blender to blend until smooth. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and some chopped fresh herbs.
These recipes are just a few examples of the many delicious meals you can make in no time at all. So next time you’re in a rush, resist the urge to order takeout and whip up something quick and tasty instead!