Food Recipes for Dinner— Dinner time shouldn’t be a chore! Here are 15 delicious recipes that are easy to whip up, and perfect for any night of the week. From hearty classics to fresh new ideas, you’ll find something to please everyone at the table.
One-Pan Lemon Herb Salmon
This One-Pan Lemon Herb Salmon is a delightful dish that combines the fresh taste of salmon with the bright flavors of lemon and herbs. It’s light, zesty, and incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for any weeknight dinner. You’ll love how the salmon cooks to flaky perfection while the asparagus adds a lovely crunch, creating a balanced meal in no time!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s great for busy nights or when you’re looking for easy dinner ideas that impress. Serve it with a side of your choice for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 cups asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large baking dish, arrange the salmon fillets and asparagus. Drizzle with olive oil and season with garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Place lemon slices on top of the salmon and around the asparagus.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve hot.
Classic Chicken Alfredo
Classic Chicken Alfredo is a creamy pasta dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. The rich, velvety sauce coats tender fettuccine, making each bite a comforting experience. With juicy chicken pieces mixed in, it offers a satisfying balance of flavors.
This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require fancy cooking skills, making it a fantastic option for those seeking easy dinner ideas. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening at home or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Create the Sauce: Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and smooth.
- Combine: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately, enjoying this delicious, creamy chicken pasta!
Food Recipes for Dinner Ideas – Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a classic Italian dish that is simple yet packed with flavor. Made with just a few ingredients—spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes—this dish is perfect for a quick dinner that still feels special. The combination of garlic and olive oil creates a rich, aromatic sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
This recipe is not only quick to prepare, but it also offers a delightful kick from the red pepper flakes, making it a favorite among pasta lovers. It’s an easy meal to whip up, ideal for busy weeknights or when craving something comforting without too much fuss. Pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal!
Ingredients
- 400g spaghetti
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and cook until fragrant and golden, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Add the Pasta: Stir in the red pepper flakes. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic oil. If the pasta seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is achieved.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt to taste. Remove from heat and top with chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Beef Tacos with Mango Salsa
Beef tacos with mango salsa are a delicious twist on a classic favorite. The combination of tender, seasoned beef and the fresh, fruity salsa creates a burst of flavor in every bite. Simple to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner, these tacos are sure to please everyone at the table.
The sweetness of the mango complements the savory beef, while the cilantro and lime add a refreshing zing. You can easily customize your tacos with your favorite toppings, making this dish versatile and fun. Serve alongside some cheesy chicken garlic wraps for a complete meal!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 8 small tortillas
- 1 cup diced mango
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in taco seasoning, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Prepare the Salsa: In a bowl, combine diced mango, red bell pepper, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Toss gently to combine.
- Assemble the Tacos: Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave. Spoon beef mixture onto each tortilla and top with mango salsa.
- Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy your beef tacos immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Creamy Garlic Tuscan Chicken
Creamy Garlic Tuscan Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce infused with garlic and fresh herbs. It’s bursting with flavor and has a satisfying, comforting texture that makes it a favorite for dinner.
This recipe is straightforward and quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of juicy chicken, vibrant spinach, and sweet cherry tomatoes creates a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Add Italian seasoning, and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the spinach and cherry tomatoes to the skillet, cooking until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes are tender. Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the creamy sauce.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese. This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic butter chicken bites with pasta or creamy chicken tortilla wraps!
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu is a vibrant and satisfying dish that brings together fresh vegetables and protein-packed tofu for a quick meal. The combination of crunchy veggies and tender tofu creates a delightful texture that’s incredibly enjoyable. It’s not only easy to make but also perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy and delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.
This stir-fry is incredibly versatile, allowing you to mix and match your favorite vegetables. The flavors are bright and fresh, making each bite a burst of goodness. Pair it with rice or noodles for a complete meal, and you have a dish that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 14 ounces firm tofu, cubed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Tofu: In a bowl, combine the cubed tofu, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Prepare the Stir-Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides. Remove the tofu and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger. Cook for 1 minute, then add the sliced bell peppers and snap peas. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Combine Everything: Return the tofu to the skillet, and sprinkle cornstarch over the mixture, stirring well to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin
This herb-crusted pork tenderloin is a delightful dish that combines savory herbs with tender, juicy meat. It’s simple to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
The blend of herbs creates a flavorful crust that enhances the natural taste of the pork, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. Serve it alongside some roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork tenderloin
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
- Rub the marinade over the pork tenderloin, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Place the pork in a baking dish and roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve.
Mediterranean Couscous Salad
This Mediterranean Couscous Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that perfectly balances flavors and textures. With its combination of fluffy couscous, juicy tomatoes, black olives, and creamy feta cheese, it’s a delightful meal that’s both satisfying and light. Ideal for warm evenings, this salad is not only simple to prepare but also packed with nutrients.
Perfect as a side or a main dish, this salad can be served alongside your favorite protein or enjoyed on its own. The medley of fresh ingredients makes it a crowd-pleaser for gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner. If you’re looking for easy dinner ideas one pot, this will fit right in with your repertoire of effortless meals.
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Couscous: In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the couscous, stir, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley.
- Mix the Salad: Add the fluffed couscous to the vegetable mixture. Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar. Toss everything together gently.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes for a chilled salad.
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa
Stuffed bell peppers are a delightful dish that combines vibrant colors and nutritious ingredients. The sweetness of the peppers pairs beautifully with the hearty quinoa filling, making it a satisfying option for dinner. Not only is this recipe simple to prepare, but it also offers a variety of flavors in each bite.
This dish is versatile, allowing you to mix in your favorite vegetables and spices. Perfect for a weeknight meal, these stuffed peppers can also impress guests at a gathering. Serve them alongside a salad or some garlic butter chicken bites with pasta for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce heat, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy.
- In a skillet, sauté onions and garlic until translucent. Add black beans, corn, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked quinoa until well mixed.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, packing it gently. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Mushroom Risotto with Parmesan
Mushroom risotto with parmesan is a creamy and comforting dish that’s perfect for dinner. It combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the rich, cheesy goodness of parmesan, creating a delightful taste that warms the soul. The creamy texture and savory profile make it an excellent choice for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
This dish is surprisingly simple to make, requiring just a few key ingredients and some patience as you stir the rice to creamy perfection. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting, you’ll find that this risotto is a satisfying recipe to master.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the broth in a saucepan and keep it warm on low heat.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they’re tender and browned.
- Stir in the Arborio rice, cooking for a couple of minutes until it’s lightly toasted.
- If using, pour in the white wine and let it simmer until mostly evaporated.
- Begin adding the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until most of the liquid is absorbed before adding more broth.
- Continue this process for about 20 minutes, until the rice is creamy and al dente.
- Stir in the parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust consistency with more broth if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Chickpea Curry with Coconut Milk
Chickpea curry with coconut milk is a delightful dish that packs a punch of flavor. It’s creamy, mildly spiced, and has a rich texture that makes it comforting and satisfying. Perfect for a busy weeknight, this recipe is simple and quick to prepare, making it an ideal addition to any dinner rotation.
The combination of chickpeas and coconut milk creates a hearty meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. Serve it over rice or with naan for a complete experience. Whether you’re looking for easy dinner ideas or a new favorite, this chickpea curry will surely impress!
Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cilantro for garnish
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the base: In a large pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute.
- Add spices: Stir in the curry powder and cumin, cooking for another minute to release the flavors.
- Combine ingredients: Add the chickpeas, coconut milk, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Season: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.
- Serve: Garnish the curry with cilantro and serve hot over rice.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the freshness of shrimp with the zesty brightness of lemon. This simple recipe brings together the flavors of garlic, cherry tomatoes, and parsley, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. The shrimp cooks quickly, and the pasta is easily tossed together, resulting in a meal that’s both light and satisfying.
The combination of garlic and lemon creates a vibrant sauce that perfectly coats the pasta, enhancing each bite. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a go-to for busy evenings. If you love easy cheap dinners for picky eaters, this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta will surely please the whole family!
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Add Tomatoes and Lemon: Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes until they soften. Add the lemon juice and zest, mixing everything well.
- Toss with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until everything is combined. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy your meal!
BBQ Chicken Pizza
BBQ Chicken Pizza is a delicious twist on a classic favorite. The sweetness of the BBQ sauce combined with tender chicken creates a delightful flavor explosion. Topped with fresh cilantro and red onions, every slice is a burst of taste that’s sure to please.
This recipe is simple to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings a fun, laid-back vibe to any meal. Plus, if you’re looking for a quick option, this pizza pairs well with other easy dinner ideas like Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Creamy Parmesan Pasta or Chicken Spinach Pasta.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pizza crust
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Olive oil, for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until well coated.
- Roll out the pizza crust on a baking sheet and brush a little olive oil on the edges.
- Spread the BBQ chicken evenly over the crust, then sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
- Arrange the sliced red onions over the cheese.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro, and slice before serving.
Baked Ziti with Mozzarella
Baked Ziti with Mozzarella is a comforting dish that combines pasta, savory tomato sauce, and gooey cheese. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a simple yet satisfying meal that packs a punch of flavor. It’s a classically Italian-American dish that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
With its rich taste and creamy texture, this baked ziti is not just easy to prepare but also makes for great leftovers. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply craving a delicious meal, this recipe is a go-to. Pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a full experience!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil for cooking
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat: In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef or sausage, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and the meat mixture. Stir in half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Assemble the Dish: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken
Cilantro lime grilled chicken is a fantastic dish that combines the zesty flavors of lime and the fresh taste of cilantro, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner. This recipe is simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and time, yet it delivers a burst of taste that will impress everyone at the table.
The grilled chicken is juicy and flavorful, with a nice char from the grill. It pairs wonderfully with sides like rice, salad, or grilled veggies, making it a versatile meal for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for quick dinner ideas or a dish to share with friends, this cilantro lime chicken is sure to please!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with lime wedges and extra cilantro for garnish.
