Easy Recipes

In today’s fast-paced world, finding the time to prepare delicious and nutritious meals can be challenging. However, with a few simple recipes up your sleeve, you can whip up tasty dishes without spending hours in the kitchen. Here are some easy recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

1. One-Pot Pasta Primavera

Ingredients:

• 12 oz pasta (any type)
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 yellow squash, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil and Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine pasta, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, yellow squash, red bell pepper, peas, vegetable broth, garlic, and olive oil.
2. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and the liquid is absorbed, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese before serving.

2. Baked Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil and season with the spice mixture.
4. Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

3. Simple Stir-Fry Vegetables

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 cup snap peas
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the broccoli, bell peppers, carrot, and snap peas.
4. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil.
6. Stir to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve over cooked rice or noodles.

4. Quick and Easy Banana Nut Bread

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted butter.
3. Add the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. Add the baking soda and salt. Stir to combine.
5. Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in the chopped walnuts if using.
7. Pour the batter into a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan.
8. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let cool before slicing and serving.

5. Classic Crepes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and eggs.
2. Gradually add the milk and water, stirring to combine.
3. Add the salt and melted butter; beat until smooth.
4. Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Pour or scoop the batter onto the griddle, using approximately 1/4 cup for each crepe.
6. Tilt the pan with a circular motion so that the batter coats the surface evenly.
7. Cook the crepe for about 2 minutes, until the bottom is light brown. Loosen with a spatula, turn and cook the other side.
8. Serve hot with your favorite fillings.

These easy recipes are designed to make meal preparation straightforward and enjoyable. Whether you’re a beginner cook or just looking for quick and delicious options, these dishes are sure to become favorites in your household. Enjoy your cooking journey!