Are you tired of sacrificing flavor and quality in favor of convenience when cooking for one? You’re not alone! With our busy lives, it’s common to find ourselves struggling to come up with creative and delicious dinner ideas that can be prepared quickly. But fear not – we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll share 18 quick and easy dinner recipes perfect for a single serving.
These mouth-watering meals are designed to satisfy your cravings while saving time and effort in the kitchen. From seafood to poultry, vegetarian options, and even some tasty twists on classic favorites, our recipe collection has something for everyone.
So go ahead, take a peek at these incredible recipes, and get ready to elevate your solo dining experience!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
A classic combination of succulent shrimp, rich garlic butter, and al dente pasta, this recipe is a perfect weeknight dinner solution. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound pasta of your choice (e.g., linguine, fettuccine)
– 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 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Toss cooked pasta with garlic butter mixture, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Baked Chicken and Vegetables
This recipe is a simple and flavorful way to cook chicken and vegetables in one pan, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal that’s ready in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large baking dish, combine the chicken, onion, garlic, bell peppers, and zucchinis.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour in the chicken broth.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Avocado
This refreshing twist on a classic Caprese salad combines the creamy richness of avocado with the flavors of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. Perfect for a light and satisfying snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a bowl, mix together the diced tomato, sliced mozzarella, and chopped basil.
3. Spoon the Caprese mixture into the avocado halves.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cheesy Spinach Quesadilla
This recipe combines the creaminess of melted cheese with the nutrients of spinach and the crunch of tortillas, making it a delicious and satisfying meal or snack. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/4 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together chopped spinach and 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet, sprinkle half of the spinach-cheddar mixture on half of the tortilla, and top with half of the remaining cheddar cheese.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browned and the cheese is melted. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Repeat with the second tortilla and remaining filling.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions (optional).
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Teriyaki Salmon Bowl
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this Asian-inspired Teriyaki Salmon Bowl, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunchbox treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, and green onions)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the salmon fillets.
3. Brush teriyaki sauce evenly over the salmon, ensuring they’re fully coated.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions.
6. Heat sesame oil in a pan and sauté mixed vegetables until tender.
7. Assemble bowls by placing cooked salmon on top of rice, followed by vegetables.
8. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Margherita Pizza Toast
Elevate your snack game with this delectable take on the classic Margherita pizza. Fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil come together in perfect harmony on toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (Italian-style or baguette work well)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toast the bread slices for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. In a small bowl, mix together diced tomatoes and a pinch of salt.
4. Assemble the pizzas by spreading a layer of tomato mixture on each toasted bread slice, followed by a slice of mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of basil.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and add balsamic glaze if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken recipe, featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a zesty and aromatic sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, garlic, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
3. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the lemon-garlic butter mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 4
Spicy Ramen Noodle Stir-Fry
This spicy ramen noodle stir-fry is a quick and flavorful meal that combines the comfort of ramen noodles with the kick of spicy vegetables. With only 15 minutes of cooking time, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 package ramen noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent (3-4 minutes).
4. Add bell peppers and ginger; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Stir in soy sauce, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked noodles with vegetable mixture; stir-fry for 1 minute to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with scallions.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the smoky flavor of BBQ chicken, making it a perfect dish for a cozy night in or a outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes several times with a fork and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and olive oil.
4. Grill chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Brush the BBQ mixture onto the grilled chicken during the last minute of cooking.
6. Serve sweet potatoes with BBQ chicken on top, garnished with cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that combines the crispness of fresh vegetables with the savory taste of tofu, perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, mushrooms)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the pan. Add mixed vegetables and cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) to the pan and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Return tofu to the pan and stir-fry everything together for another minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Rice Bowl
Quickly cook a flavorful and nutritious meal with this simple recipe! This Beef and Broccoli Rice Bowl combines tender beef, crisp broccoli, and fluffy rice for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the beef strips in a pan with olive oil until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the broccoli, soy sauce, and garlic to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
3. Serve the beef and broccoli mixture over cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pesto Zucchini Noodles
Looking for a light and refreshing summer meal that’s also packed with nutrients? Look no further! This Pesto Zucchini Noodles recipe is a perfect combination of flavors, textures, and ease of preparation.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet with the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Slice the zucchinis into long, thin noodles (about 1/8 inch thick).
3. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften.
4. Stir in the pesto sauce and cook for an additional minute, ensuring the noodles are well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap
Get ready to wrap up a delicious meal with this Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap recipe! This tasty twist on the classic salad features crispy chicken, fresh lettuce, and creamy Caesar dressing all wrapped up in a warm tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups romaine lettuce
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine lettuce, Caesar dressing, and chicken.
4. Warm the tortilla by wrapping it in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the wrap by placing the chicken-lettuce mixture onto the tortilla, followed by mozzarella cheese and parsley.
6. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat package.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting combination of creamy tomato basil soup and gooey grilled cheese sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
2. Add diced tomatoes, canned tomatoes, chicken broth, and basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
4. Butter one side of each bread slice. Place sandwiches on a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
A flavorful and refreshing salad that combines the creamy texture of chickpeas with the bright flavors of the Mediterranean. This salad is perfect for a quick lunch or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, olives, artichoke hearts, onion, and garlic.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the chickpea mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and serve.
Easy Chicken Fajitas
Easy Chicken Fajitas: A Quick and Flavorful Recipe
Looking for a delicious and effortless meal? Look no further! This easy chicken fajita recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
– 1/2 cup sliced onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon fajita seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the bell peppers, onions, and garlic; cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Sprinkle fajita seasoning and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble the fajitas by placing chicken and vegetable mixture onto tortillas, adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Loaded Sweet Potato Nachos
Loaded Sweet Potato Nachos Recipe
Get ready to elevate your snack game with these creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious Loaded Sweet Potato Nachos!
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, baked and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sour cream, sliced avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange sweet potato slices on a large baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with half of the cheddar cheese.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Remove from oven and top with black beans, cilantro, jalapeño, and remaining cheddar cheese.
6. Return to oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and customize with your favorite toppings!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herb-Crusted Tilapia with Asparagus
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy combination of tender tilapia and crisp asparagus, all wrapped up in a fragrant herb crust. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 bunch of fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place tilapia fillets on the baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, parsley, dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
5. Brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the tilapia.
6. Roast asparagus in a separate pan with 1 tbsp olive oil at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
7. Place baking sheet with tilapia in oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 24-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a culinary adventure! This collection of 18 quick and easy dinner recipes for one person offers a delightful array of flavors and textures. From seafood to poultry, vegetarian options, and even sweet treats, there’s something for everyone. Try Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, One-Pan Baked Chicken and Vegetables, or Caprese Stuffed Avocado. With these simple yet satisfying recipes, you’ll never have to settle for takeout again.
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