Cooking at home doesn’t have to be a complicated affair. Often, the thought of a long ingredient list can make us hesitate to prepare a meal from scratch. But what if you could create a variety of delicious dishes with just five ingredients or less? These easy recipes are perfect for those days when you want something simple, quick, and satisfying without the hassle. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or just looking for some easy meal inspiration, these recipes are proof that less can truly be more.
1. Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Lemon herb grilled chicken is a simple and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner. You only need chicken breasts, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and olive oil. Start by marinating the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, oregano, salt, and olive oil for at least 30 minutes. Grill the chicken over medium-high heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through. The bright, tangy lemon paired with the aromatic herbs makes this chicken dish a delicious and effortless meal.
2. Tomato Basil Pasta
Tomato basil pasta is a classic dish that’s easy to make and bursting with fresh flavors. All you need is pasta, cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then add halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften. Toss in the cooked pasta and fresh basil, and season with salt and pepper. This dish is simple, fresh, and perfect for a busy weeknight.
3. Honey Mustard Baked Salmon
Honey mustard baked salmon is a delicious and healthy meal that requires minimal effort. With just salmon fillets, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper, you can create a flavorful dinner in no time. Preheat the oven to 400°F. In a small bowl, mix honey and Dijon mustard, then spread the mixture over the salmon fillets. Season with salt and pepper, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through. The sweet and tangy glaze pairs perfectly with the rich flavor of the salmon.
4. Avocado Toast
Avocado toast is a quick and easy breakfast or snack that requires just a few simple ingredients. You’ll need a slice of whole-grain bread, a ripe avocado, salt, and lemon juice. Toast the bread to your liking, then mash the avocado with a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lemon juice. Spread the avocado mixture on the toast, and you have a nutritious and satisfying meal ready in minutes. You can also add a poached egg on top for extra protein.
5. Sheet Pan Sausage and Peppers
Sheet pan sausage and peppers is a one-pan meal that’s both hearty and easy to prepare. All you need are smoked sausages, bell peppers, onions, olive oil, and salt. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Slice the sausages, bell peppers, and onions, then place them on a sheet pan. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt, and toss everything together. Spread it out in a single layer and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the sausages are browned. This dish is flavorful, filling, and requires minimal cleanup.
6. Caprese Salad
Caprese salad is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect as a side or a light meal. You only need fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, olive oil, and salt. Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella, and arrange them on a plate, alternating between the two. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the slices, and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and you have a beautiful and delicious salad that takes just minutes to prepare.
7. Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Baked chicken drumsticks are a family favorite that’s easy to make with just a few ingredients. You’ll need chicken drumsticks, olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place the drumsticks on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy. These drumsticks are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a quick dinner.
8. Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie
A peanut butter banana smoothie is a creamy and delicious breakfast or snack that takes just a few minutes to make. All you need are a banana, peanut butter, milk (dairy or non-dairy), and honey. In a blender, combine the banana, peanut butter, milk, and a drizzle of honey. Blend until smooth, and enjoy! This smoothie is packed with protein, healthy fats, and natural sugars, making it a great way to start your day or refuel after a workout.
9. Garlic Butter Shrimp
Garlic butter shrimp is a quick and easy dish that’s full of flavor. You’ll need shrimp, garlic, butter, lemon juice, and parsley. Start by melting butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. This dish is perfect served over pasta or with a side of crusty bread.
10. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Roasted sweet potatoes are a simple and nutritious side dish that pairs well with almost any meal. You’ll need sweet potatoes, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Peel and cube the sweet potatoes, then toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until tender and caramelized. The natural sweetness of the potatoes is enhanced by roasting, making this dish both healthy and delicious.
