Dinner in a Dash! 17 Quick & Easy Recipes That Won’t Break A Sweat

Busy nights call for quick solutions. These 17 easy-to-make dinner recipes are perfect for those evenings when time is tight but a good meal is still on the agenda. Each recipe is designed to ensure that even the busiest person can prepare a fulfilling dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

Making your own version of Chipotle’s Corn Salsa brings a fresh and easy option for a side that complements any meal, especially during busy weeknights. Simply combine ingredients and chill before serving to enhance the flavors. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both simple and quick to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

25 Minute Black Bean Burger

If you’re in a rush but still want something hearty, a Black Bean Burger is a great choice. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a quick and wholesome meal that works great for both lunch and dinner. Perfect for when you want a fulfilling meal without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: 25 Minute Black Bean Burger

Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla

An air fryer turns a simple Cheese Quesadilla into a crispy, golden brown snack in minutes. It’s an excellent quick fix for a hungry evening. Just pair it with your favorite dip and you’ve got a delicious meal ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla

Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Whip up a batch of these inspired black beans and you’ve got the perfect side dish ready to go with any Mexican meal. Copycat Chipotle Black Beans are not only quick to make but also packed with good nutrition, making them an ideal weekday meal component.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Best Lemon Pasta

Best Lemon Pasta is a refreshing change of pace from heavier meals, bringing a light, citrusy lift to your dinner table. It cooks up fast, making it an ideal choice for a stress-free evening. Enjoy it as a stand-alone dish or paired with a simple salad.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

How about Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice? It’s famously fluffy and fragrant, a staple that enhances any Asian dish. It’s straightforward to cook and can be ready by the time your main course has finished simmering. This rice is a foolproof side for a hassle-free dinner.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

Chickpea Nuggets

If you have kids, Chickpea nuggets offer a fun and quick way to get some protein into their meal. These nuggets bake up crispy and are perfect for dipping into your favorite sauces. They’re a fast solution for a weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Nuggets

Spaghetti Marinara

Spaghetti Marinara is a simple classic that never disappoints. It’s quick to whip up, requiring minimal prep and cooking time, which makes it an ideal dish for busy evenings. Plus, it’s versatile enough to please everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara

Avocado Salad

For those nights when you want to keep things light, try Avocado Salad. This salad is a fresh, light option that’s as easy to put together as it is healthy. Toss it up in just a few minutes for a quick lunch or as a side to your main dish.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Salad

Cacio e Pepe

Cacio e Pepe is a simple yet fulfilling pasta dish with a rich history. It requires minimal ingredients and time, making it perfect for a last-minute dinner that feels special without any of the stress. Enjoy its creamy texture and peppery kick tonight.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Vegetable Stir Fry

Whipping up a quick dinner can be as simple as tossing some veggies in a pan for a stir fry that’s ready in minutes. Vegetable Stir Fry is perfect for a busy weekday, it allows you to use up whatever vegetables you have on hand. Not only is it fast, but it’s also a great way to ensure you’re getting a good dose of nutrients. It’s a win-win for taste and health without a fuss.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

Mashed Potato Fritters

If you’ve got leftover mashed potatoes, transforming them into Mashed Potato Fritters is a breeze. They crisp up beautifully in just a few minutes, making them an excellent side or snack. Pair them with a simple dipping sauce for an extra kick. Quick to make, these fritters are a clever way to repurpose leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potato Fritters

Air Fryer Asparagus

Using an air fryer turns asparagus into a crispy, delicious side dish in no time. Air Fryer Asparagus is the perfect last-minute addition to any meal, enhancing your dinner with minimal effort. The quick cooking time preserves the nutrients, making it a healthy choice. Cleanup is just as swift, thanks to the air fryer.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus

Penne Alla Vodka

For a dish that feels gourmet but is straightforward, Penne Alla Vodka is a smart choice. It cooks up fast, bringing a rich and creamy experience to your dinner table. Ideal for when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a quick way to dress up pasta night.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad

Nothing says fresh and easy like a Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad. It’s ready in minutes, providing a crisp, refreshing complement to any meal. Perfect for hot days or when you need a light side that’s also quick to prepare. It’s as simple as chopping and tossing everything together.
Get the Recipe: Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad

Tortilla Pizza

For a pizza night without the dough-making hassle, Tortilla Pizza come together with minimal prep and cook time. Just top a tortilla with your favorite ingredients and bake until crispy. It’s an ingenious solution for pizza cravings that strikes a balance between convenience and taste. Ready in a flash, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Tortilla Pizza

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a testament to the beauty of simplicity, requiring just a few pantry staples to create something extraordinary quickly. It’s the go-to dish for a late return home, serving up comfort in under 20 minutes. It’s about as straightforward as it gets, with a flavor that pulls its weight.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Aglio e Olio