Simple Recipes for Busy People

Life is fast. So fast, in fact, that sometimes cooking a meal feels like a luxury you can’t afford. But don’t worry – you don’t need to become a culinary master to get something tasty on the table in a snap. These recipes are your ticket to sanity on a busy day. Fast, easy, and absolutely satisfying.

1. Quick Veggie Stir-Fry

There’s something magical about the combination of vibrant vegetables, a sizzle in the pan, and a dash of soy sauce that makes everything come together perfectly. With minimal prep, you can whip up this stir-fry in under 15 minutes. The best part? You can use whatever vegetables you have in the fridge. Just chop them up, heat a little oil in a pan, toss them in, and stir until tender. Add soy sauce, a splash of sesame oil, and—bam! Dinner is ready.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Cooked rice (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Toss in the veggies and stir-fry until tender.
4. Add soy sauce and sesame oil, and cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Serve over rice, and you’re done!

2. Avocado Toast with a Twist

When you need something healthy, quick, and full of flavor, avocado toast is the hero you’ve been waiting for. But why settle for plain when you can spice it up with just a few simple extras? A drizzle of hot sauce, a sprinkle of feta, or even a fried egg on top transforms this simple dish into a powerhouse of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe avocado
• 2 slices of whole-grain bread
• Feta cheese (optional)
• Hot sauce (optional)
• 1 egg (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

1. Toast the bread to your desired crispness.
2. Mash the avocado with a fork and spread it evenly on the toast.
3. Top with feta cheese and a dash of hot sauce (if desired).
4. For extra protein, fry an egg and place it on top. Voilà!

3. One-Pan Chicken and Veggies

If you’re really short on time but still want something hearty, this one-pan dish is your new best friend. Chicken, veggies, and a few simple seasonings bake together in the oven. No mess, no fuss. And the flavors? Out of this world.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place chicken and veggies on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through. Done!

4. 5-Minute Smoothie

Need to get out the door, but you’re starving? This smoothie is a lifesaver. It’s packed with protein and vitamins to keep you going all morning. Just throw everything in a blender and you’re good to go. Bonus: you can even make it the night before!

Ingredients:

• 1 banana
• 1 cup spinach (don’t worry, you won’t taste it!)
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 cup almond milk
• 1 tbsp peanut butter (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth. Enjoy!

5. 3-Ingredient Pasta

Yes, you read that right. Three ingredients. And no, it’s not instant ramen. With just pasta, olive oil, and Parmesan, you can make a delicious meal that feels like a cheat code for busy days. You could even toss in a few garlic cloves if you’re feeling fancy!

Ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta of choice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
2. Drain the pasta, reserving a bit of cooking water.
3. Toss pasta with olive oil and Parmesan, adding some pasta water if needed to create a sauce. Done!

There you go—five simple, quick recipes that anyone can throw together when the clock is ticking. No need to sacrifice taste or nutrition just because you’re busy. The key is keeping things simple and making the most of what you have on hand. So go ahead, get cooking!