5 Easy No-Frills Recipes for Busy Cooks
In today's fast-paced world, many people find themselves juggling various responsibilities, which can leave little time for cooking elaborate meals. However, that doesn't mean you have to compromise on taste or nutritional value. Here are five easy no-frills recipes that are quick to prepare, use everyday ingredients, and require minimal cooking skills, perfect for busy cooks everywhere.
1. One-Pot Chicken and Rice
When you’re short on time, this one-pot wonder is a lifesaver. Not only does it minimize cleanup, but it also delivers a complete meal with protein, carbs, and veggies.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 1 1⁄2 cups chicken broth or water
- 1 pound boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Green peas or any other vegetable
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add onions and bell peppers, sauté until soft.
- Add garlic, then add the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until the chicken starts to brown.
- Stir in the rice, ensuring each grain is coated with oil, then pour in the broth or water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 18 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- If using, add peas or other veggies in the last 5 minutes of cooking. Fluff with a fork before serving.
🍚 Note: Adjust the amount of broth if you prefer a creamier or drier rice texture.
2. Caprese Salad Sandwich
This fresh and tasty sandwich requires no cooking at all, making it perfect for those sweltering summer days or when you need a quick lunch solution.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices of good quality bread
- Fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic vinegar or glaze
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: Arugula or spinach
Instructions:
- Toast the bread to your liking.
- Layer slices of mozzarella on one slice of bread, then add tomato slices, basil leaves, and optional greens.
- Drizzle with balsamic vinegar or glaze, season with salt and pepper.
- Top with the second slice of bread, cut in half, and enjoy!
🍅 Note: For a more robust sandwich, spread some pesto on the bread before layering the ingredients.
3. Lentil and Vegetable Soup
Full of fiber and flavor, this soup can be prepared in advance and reheated, offering a healthy option even on the busiest days.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: spinach or kale
Instructions:
- In a large pot, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery in a bit of oil until softened.
- Add garlic, cook for another minute, then stir in the lentils.
- Pour in the broth or water, add the tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until lentils are tender.
- If using, add spinach or kale in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
🌿 Note: This soup can be frozen in portions for future meals, making it an excellent time-saving strategy.
4. Egg Fried Rice
Egg Fried Rice is the perfect dish for using up leftover rice, delivering a satisfying meal in minutes. It’s versatile, quick, and easy.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked cold rice
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Green onions, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat some oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Sauté onions and garlic until translucent.
- Push the onions and garlic to one side, add a bit more oil, and pour in the eggs, scrambling them until almost set.
- Mix in the rice, breaking up any clumps, and stir to combine with the eggs and onions.
- Add the vegetables, soy sauce, salt, and pepper, stirring to heat through and flavor evenly.
- Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
🍳 Note: Using day-old rice ensures it won't be mushy, which is crucial for good fried rice.
5. Greek Yogurt with Honey and Fruit
Sometimes, simplicity is the key to a delightful meal. This snack or light dessert combines simplicity with sophistication, offering a healthy treat that can be prepared in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1-2 tablespoons honey
- Fresh fruits (berries, sliced bananas, apple, etc.)
- Optional: Nuts or seeds for crunch
Instructions:
- Spoon Greek yogurt into a bowl or cup.
- Drizzle with honey.
- Top with fresh fruits of your choice.
- If desired, add nuts or seeds for extra texture.
🍯 Note: Choose fruits in season for the best flavor, which also supports local growers.
These no-frills recipes are designed to help you eat well without spending hours in the kitchen. They balance ease, taste, and nutrition, providing you with options that are both practical for everyday life and enjoyable to eat. Enjoy the process of cooking, savor the flavors, and remember, good food doesn't have to be complicated.
Can these recipes be made in advance?
+Yes, most of these recipes can be prepped in advance. Soups and one-pot meals like Chicken and Rice can be refrigerated or frozen for later consumption. The Caprese Sandwich is best assembled fresh, but you can prep ingredients ahead. Greek Yogurt can be prepared a day in advance, but fruits should be added just before serving.
What can I substitute if I’m missing an ingredient?
+These recipes are quite flexible. For instance:
- Chicken: Substitute with tofu, lentils, or another protein.
- Vegetables: Use whatever you have on hand. Carrots, peas, and corn are just examples.
- Rice: Try quinoa, barley, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
How can I make these recipes even quicker?
+To speed up the cooking process:
- Use pre-cooked or instant rice for quicker prep in the One-Pot Chicken and Rice.
- Opt for bagged mixed greens in place of chopping vegetables.
- Keep ingredients like pre-chopped garlic or onion in the freezer for faster cooking.
- Prepare bulk ingredients like chicken or lentils at the start of the week to use in multiple dishes.