Are you tired of sacrificing flavor and quality for the sake of convenience? Look no further! We’ve got 20 quick dinner recipes that are perfect for a solo meal or date night. From classic comfort foods to international flavors, our list has something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and healthy or rich and indulgent, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, featuring recipes that are not only delicious but also easy to make and perfect for one person. From garlic butter shrimp pasta to cheesy spinach quesadillas, our list is packed with flavor and variety. So go ahead, take your pick, and get cooking!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
A classic comfort food dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce, served over al dente pasta. This recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 pound pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine or linguine)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. If using wine and broth, add them to the skillet and stir to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Combine cooked pasta, garlic butter sauce, and shrimp in a large serving dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Single-Serve Veggie Stir-Fry
Get your daily dose of veggies with this simple and speedy stir-fry recipe, perfect for a solo meal or as a base for a quick lunch. With just a few ingredients and 5 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a nutritious and flavorful dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, etc.)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce (or to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to season
– Optional: any other desired stir-fry ingredients (e.g. tofu, mushrooms, scallions)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a small non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until tender-crisp.
4. Add soy sauce (and any other desired ingredients) and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken
A bright and citrusy twist on classic chicken, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s both flavorful and easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, lemon juice, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with parsley.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and visually stunning recipe that combines the richness of portobello mushrooms with the classic Italian flavors of caprese salad.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps cleaned
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese, basil, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the caprese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four mushrooms.
4. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Teriyaki Salmon Bowl
This recipe yields a flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with grilled salmon, savory teriyaki sauce, and crunchy vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, etc.)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and 1 tablespoon of water. Brush the mixture onto the grilled salmon during the last minute of cooking.
4. Toss mixed vegetables in vegetable oil, salt, and pepper. Grill or sauté until tender-crisp.
5. Divide cooked salmon and vegetables among bowls. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Thai Peanut Noodles
Get ready to spice up your noodles with this bold and creamy Thai-inspired dish! With the perfect balance of spicy, savory, and nutty flavors, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. rice noodles
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp Thai red curry paste
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, ginger, curry paste, coconut milk, and water. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Add cooked noodles to the saucepan and toss until well coated.
6. Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Spinach Quesadilla
A delicious twist on traditional quesadillas, this recipe combines the creaminess of spinach and cheese with the crunch of a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the spinach-cheese mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per quesadilla
Grilled Steak with Garlic Butter
Savor the rich flavors of grilled steak paired with a savory garlic butter compound, elevating this classic dish to new heights. This simple yet satisfying recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 lbs flank steak
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness is reached.
4. During the last minute of grilling, brush steak with garlic butter compound.
5. Let steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Single-Serving Margherita Pizza
Transform your cravings into a perfect single-serving pizza with this simple recipe. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious Margherita-style pizza to satisfy your hunger.
Ingredients:
– 1 small flour tortilla (or mini pizza crust)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2-3 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup tomato sauce
– Fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the tortilla on a baking sheet or oven-safe plate.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Arrange the mozzarella slices on top of the tortilla.
5. Spoon the tomato sauce over the cheese, making sure to spread it evenly.
6. Top with fresh basil leaves and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Risotto
Savor the rich flavors of this creamy mushroom risotto, a perfect comfort food dish for any occasion. This recipe yields a smooth and flavorful rice dish infused with earthy mushrooms and a hint of cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. After 20 minutes of cooking, add sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
5. If using white wine, add it and cook until absorbed.
6. Remove from heat; stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Avocado Toast with Poached Egg
Start your day off right with this simple yet satisfying breakfast recipe. The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the runny yolk of a poached egg, all on top of crispy whole grain toast.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 2 slices of whole grain bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– 1 large egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for added spice
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Mash the avocado in a bowl with a fork until creamy.
3. Poach the egg by cracking it into a pot of simmering water. Cook for 3-4 minutes, then remove with a slotted spoon.
4. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toasted bread.
5. Place the poached egg on top of the avocado.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
One-Pot Chicken Alfredo
This classic comfort food dish is a staple of Italian-American cuisine. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that’s sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over the chicken and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Add cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, basil, salt, and pepper. Toss until well combined.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Grilled Halloumi Salad
Discover the perfect harmony of flavors and textures with this refreshing salad, featuring grilled halloumi cheese, juicy tomatoes, and crisp cucumbers. A drizzle of zesty lemon juice brings everything together in a delightful Mediterranean-inspired treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 large cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the halloumi cheese into 1-inch thick pieces and brush with olive oil. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
3. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and grilled halloumi cheese.
4. Drizzle the lemon juice over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
These bite-sized sliders are perfect for a quick dinner or party appetizer. Tender and flavorful, they’re sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Pickle slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices.
3. Place the pork in a slow cooker or Dutch oven and cook for 8-10 hours, or until tender.
4. Shred the pork with two forks into bite-sized pieces.
5. Add the BBQ sauce and toss to coat.
6. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast.
7. Assemble the sliders by spooning the pulled pork onto the buns, followed by a dollop of coleslaw and a few pickle slices (if using).
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Garlic Parmesan Zoodles
Transform your zucchini noodles into a flavorful masterpiece with this easy recipe that combines the richness of parmesan cheese, the pungency of garlic, and the simplicity of sautéing. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Spiralize the zucchinis into long noodles.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet, cooking for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender.
5. Sprinkle the parmesan cheese over the noodles and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Stuffed Bell Pepper with Quinoa
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the sweetness of roasted bell peppers with the nutty goodness of quinoa.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa with black beans, onion, garlic, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling as full as possible.
5. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
6. Serve warm, garnished with shredded cheese and chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Single-Serve Beef Tacos
Looking for a fast and flavorful meal solution? This single-serve beef taco recipe is perfect for busy days, requiring only a few ingredients and minimal cooking time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/8 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small flour tortilla (6-7 inches)
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to the beef and stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 1 minute.
5. Warm the tortilla by wrapping it in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble the taco by spooning the beef mixture onto the tortilla and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Chicken Fried Rice
This classic Chinese dish is a staple for a reason – it’s quick, delicious, and can be customized to your taste. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll have a satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cooked chicken back into the pan.
5. Stir in cooked rice and soy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Cod with Herb Crust
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of cod with a savory herb crust, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, garlic, thyme, and parsley.
3. Place cod fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Divide the herb mixture evenly among the cod fillets, pressing gently onto the fish.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Quick Chickpea Curry
A flavorful and nutritious curry that’s ready in under 30 minutes! This recipe is perfect for a busy day when you need a delicious meal fast.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in chickpeas, coconut milk, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with cilantro and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Looking for quick and delicious dinner recipes that serve one? Look no further! This article features 20 mouth-watering recipes that are perfect for a solo meal. From seafood to vegetarian options, these easy-to-make dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Try Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, Single-Serve Veggie Stir-Fry, or One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken for a flavorful and filling dinner. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or cheesy, there’s something on this list for everyone.
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