There used to be such a thing as a “quick run to the grocery store,” but with current circumstances around Covid-19 have put that reality on hold. The same applies with going out to eat. It can be difficult continually coming up with convenient, appetizing meals without needing to pick up extra specific ingredients. If you’re struggling with inspiration for new and enticing meal ideas, here are some easy recipes you can make with things already in your pantry:
One Pot Zucchini Mushroom Pasta
This One Pot Zucchini Mushroom Pasta recipe is great when you’re trying to use up that half a bag of frozen peas that’s been sitting in the freezer for months. Even the pasta gets cooked in the same pot as all the other ingredients! You can make this in about 20 minutes.
5 Ingredient Chili
Chili is tasty, adaptable, and filling. This 5 Ingredient Chili recipe only requires a minimal amount of ingredients, but you can spice it up with hot sauce or seasoning of your choice. This recipe takes about 25 minutes and goes great with cornbread.
Filling Egg Scramble
Sometimes, breakfast for dinner is the ideal. Adding veggies and meat to an egg scramble is a lovely way to round out a meal. This Filling Egg Scramble is best served with warm toast.
Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken
Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken is a tasty dish that requires a bit of prep to make the teriyaki chicken, but the sweet and savory results are definitely worth it! This sheet pan recipe is open for vegetable variation as you wish.
Versatile Vegetable Soup
What better way to make use of kitchen odds and ends than by tossing everything together in a pot and making vegetable soup? This Versatile Vegetable Soup recipe suggests the typical potatoes, carrots, celery, and a delicious broth, but feel free to toss in other veggies that sound good to you.
Quick Chicken Puttanesca
Quick Chicken Puttanesca is fast, filling, and makes use of your canned tomato paste, which is usually lying in the pantry. Ready in about 40 minutes.
Easy Burrito Bowl
This Easy Burrito Bowl can be made quickly, easily, and inexpensively. You can use canned or dried beans for this recipe. Having fresh toppings on hand, like avocado or salsa, will really brighten up the flavor of your bowl.
Cool Pasta Salad
If you’re looking for a cool meal on a hot summer day, this Cool Pasta Salad is the answer! It takes less than half an hour to prepare and will make for a refreshing meal.
Bloomin’ Baked Potato
This Bloomin’ Baked Potato recipe takes a bit longer, but yields delicious results. If you’re pressed for time, remember you can shorten the amount of time you need to bake the potato by popping it in the microwave for a few minutes. (Just make sure you stab the tater with a fork a couple times to let out steam.)
Sheet Pan Nachos
I had to end this list with my favorite easy meal – Sheet Pan Nachos! Customize your nacho toppings to your liking, and you’ll have a wonderful, fun-to-eat meal within minutes.
And, don’t forget to let us know your ideas of easy meals in the comments!