• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Parallel Plates
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
menu icon
go to homepage
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
search icon
Homepage link
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
×
Home » Dinner

33 Easy Recipes for Dinner That Anyone Can Make

Published: Oct 25, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Easy recipes are all about simplicity and convenience, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Whether you're cooking for yourself, family, or friends, these dishes require minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, so you can whip up a meal without the stress. Plus, they cater to a variety of dietary preferences, ensuring everyone at the table can find something they'll love. With these great options, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal and company.

An image of kung pao tofu served in a bowl over rice.
Kung Pao Tofu. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Lemon Greek Potatoes

Close-up image of lemon greek potatoes in a dish.
Lemon Greek Potatoes. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

These Lemon Greek Potatoes, infused with olive oil, oregano, and garlic, are baked to crispy perfection. In just one hour, you can whip up a flavorful side dish that complements any main course, making it a great choice for easy recipes anyone can make.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Greek Potatoes

Easy Homemade Margherita Pizza

Close-up image of sliced homemade Margherita pizza.
Easy Homemade Margherita Pizza. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Prepare this homemade Margherita pizza in just 20 minutes using fresh ingredients. It's a quick, simple meal option perfect for busy weeknights, proving that easy recipes can also be delicious.
Get the Recipe: Easy Homemade Margherita Pizza

Quick Fried Rice with Leftover Rice

Horizontal image of fried rice in a white bowl with brown chopsticks on the side.
Quick Fried Rice with Leftover Rice. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This fried rice comes together in a mere 15 minutes using day-old rice and leftover veggies from your fridge. It's a fantastic weeknight meal that highlights the simplicity of easy recipes everyone can master.
Get the Recipe: Quick Fried Rice with Leftover Rice

Easy Veggie Lasagna

An image of a slice of vegetable lasagna on a white serving plate.
Easy Veggie Lasagna. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This vegetable lasagna features layers of pasta, ricotta cheese, and roasted vegetables, creating a hearty, meatless option. Perfect for ensuring you get your daily servings of veggies, this dish is a solid choice for easy recipes.
Get the Recipe: Easy Veggie Lasagna

Kung Pao Tofu

An image of kung pao tofu served in a bowl over rice.
Kung Pao Tofu. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy this vibrant Kung Pao tofu with crunchy bell peppers and peanuts. This colorful dish is not only quick to prepare but also a fantastic example of easy recipes that pack a flavor punch.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Tofu

Penne Pomodoro

An close up photo of cooked penne pomodoro in a pot.
Penne Pomodoro. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Enjoy this Penne Pomodoro, a super simple dish ready in under 30 minutes. With its authentic flavors and budget-friendly ingredients, it’s a go-to for anyone seeking quick and easy recipes for busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Penne Pomodoro

Nigerian Fried Rice

An overhead image of Nigerian fried rice in a serving bowl.
Nigerian Fried Rice. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This Nigerian fried rice is a lively, 15-minute recipe featuring long-grain rice and colorful veggies. Its bold flavors make it a fun and quick meal option, showing that easy recipes can be exciting as well.
Get the Recipe: Nigerian Fried Rice

Jamaican Rasta Pasta

An overhead image of cooked rasta pasta on a serving bowl.
Jamaican Rasta Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This vegan rasta pasta is mildly spiced and made with fresh ingredients, ready in just 30 minutes. It serves as a perfect example of how easy recipes can still deliver great taste and a satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Rasta Pasta

Squash and Zucchini Casserole

Close up of zucchini and summer squash casserole in glass dish.
Squash and Zucchini Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This cheesy squash and zucchini casserole is ready in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner. With hearty veggies and simple preparation, it exemplifies how easy recipes can shine at your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Squash and Zucchini Casserole

Easy One Pot Cabbage Soup

An overhead image of two cabbage soups in a white serving bowl.
Easy One Pot Cabbage Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This one-pot vegan cabbage soup is not only nutrient-packed but also incredibly easy to prepare. It can be made in large batches, making it a smart choice for weeknight meals or meal prep with easy recipes in mind.
Get the Recipe: Easy One Pot Cabbage Soup

Easy, Creamy White Bean Chili

An overhead image of vegan white bean chili with toppings.
Easy, Creamy White Bean Chili. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This vegan white bean chili takes just 30 minutes to make, combining wholesome pantry staples for a hearty meal. It's a great option for busy nights, reinforcing how easy recipes can be both nutritious and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Easy, Creamy White Bean Chili

Pasta Fresca

An overhead image of pasta fresca in a white plate with cheese and tomatoes in the background.
Pasta Fresca. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Enjoy this easy pasta fresca made with fresh ingredients, ready in under 30 minutes. It’s a delightful choice for those seeking quick meals, showcasing how easy recipes can fit into any busy schedule.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Fresca

3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole

An image of broccoli cheese casserole served on a table with a spoon on the right side.
3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This quick 3-ingredient broccoli cheese casserole is a simple, nutritious dish you can whip up in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for those busy days, demonstrating how easy recipes can simplify your meal planning.
Get the Recipe: 3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Aloo Gobi Masala

An overhead image of aloo gobi in a white plate.
Aloo Gobi Masala. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This roasted aloo gobi is a flavorful Indian dish that takes less than 15 minutes of active prep time. It's an excellent choice for quick and easy recipes that bring warmth and comfort to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Aloo Gobi Masala

Naan Pizza

An image of naan pizza with different toppings on each.
Naan Pizza. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Prepare three different naan pizzas—Margherita, Veggie, and Mediterranean—in just 30 minutes for a fun, customizable meal. These options highlight the versatility and ease of easy recipes for a casual dinner.
Get the Recipe: Naan Pizza

Beans and Cornbread

Beans and cornbread served together in a bowl.
Beans and Cornbread. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This classic Southern comfort food is a breeze to make, combining simple ingredients and spices. Perfect for cold winter days, it shows how easy recipes can bring warmth and heartiness to your dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Beans and Cornbread

Chana Masala

Top view image of chana masala served in a white bowl.
Chana Masala. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This easy chana masala is a vegan chickpea curry that cooks up in one pot within 30 minutes. It's a forgiving recipe, making it a fantastic introduction to easy recipes for those new to Indian cooking.
Get the Recipe: Chana Masala

Buffalo Chickpea Wrap

An image of buffalo chickpea wraps on a plate.
Buffalo Chickpea Wrap. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Whip up these spicy buffalo chickpea wraps in just 15 minutes for a quick, flavorful meal. Their ease of preparation makes them perfect for busy days, emphasizing how easy recipes can satisfy your hunger in no time.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chickpea Wrap

Easy Microwave Mac and Cheese

An overhead image of microwave mac and cheese in a bowl with a spoon.
Easy Microwave Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Enjoy the convenience of microwave mac and cheese, ready in minutes for a quick comfort food fix. This recipe proves that easy recipes can be both quick and satisfying, perfect for busy lifestyles.
Get the Recipe: Easy Microwave Mac and Cheese

Easy, Spicy Gochujang Tofu

An overhead image of gochujang tofu rice bowl with chopsticks on the side.
Easy, Spicy Gochujang Tofu. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Gochujang tofu features crisp, golden tofu paired with a sweet and spicy sauce, ready in just 30 minutes. It's a fantastic option for easy recipes that deliver both flavor and nutrition in a short amount of time.
Get the Recipe: Easy, Spicy Gochujang Tofu

One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Straight view of cooked one-pot lemon ricotta pasta garnished with rocket and fresh basil leaves placed in a white plate with a fork on the side.
One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This lemon ricotta pasta is a simple, one-pot meal that cooks in just 15 minutes. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a testament to how easy recipes can make weeknight dinners a breeze.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Sheet Pan Salmon and Asparagus

Sheet Pan Salmon Asparagus on a parchment paper lined sheet pan.
Sheet Pan Salmon and Asparagus. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

This sheet pan salmon and asparagus dish is ready in under 25 minutes, offering a healthy meal with minimal effort. It’s a great example of how easy recipes can lead to a quick and nutritious dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Salmon and Asparagus

Sheet Pan Steak Fajitas

Baking tray with cooked steak, bell peppers, and veggies with a steel bowl of fresh tomatoes in the middle and flour tortillas folded to the side.
Sheet Pan Steak Fajitas. Photo credit: Fitasamamabear.

These sheet-pan steak fajitas are seasoned with homemade spices and come together in just 20 minutes. With minimal prep and cleanup, they’re a standout choice for easy recipes that make weeknight dinners enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Steak Fajitas

Instant Pot Tortilla Soup

Low angle shot of a white bowl filled with tortilla soup. There is an instant pot in the background.
Instant Pot Tortilla Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Instant Pot chicken tortilla soup packs a punch of flavor with shredded chicken, black beans, and tomatoes, all in one simple recipe. This hearty dish is perfect for quick and easy dinners on busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Tortilla Soup

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

A plate of air fryer chicken tenders with a dip.
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Air fryer chicken tenders are ready in no time, delivering crispy, flavorful results with minimal preparation. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, showcasing how easy recipes can still be fun and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken Drumsticks

A white baking dish with chicken drumsticks layered inside and honey mustard sauce on top.
Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken Drumsticks. Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

Chicken drumsticks slow-cooked in honey mustard sauce are simple to prepare and require minimal effort. This hands-off method makes for a flavorful dinner, illustrating how easy recipes can make mealtime stress-free.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken Drumsticks

Turkey Burger Sliders

Closeup shot of turkey burger sliders on a white tray.
Turkey Burger Sliders. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

These turkey burger sliders are a fun and easy option for dinner, featuring juicy patties and customizable toppings. They're perfect for casual meals or BBQ gatherings, highlighting the simplicity of easy recipes.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Burger Sliders

Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast and Potatoes

Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast and Potatoes on a white plate with parsley.
Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast and Potatoes. Photo credit: Chicken Air Fryer Recipes.

Air fryer chicken breast and potatoes are ready in less than 30 minutes, making for a quick, family-friendly meal. This recipe showcases how easy recipes can bring together simple ingredients for a satisfying dinner.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast and Potatoes

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A plate of garlic butter chicken bites.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Garlic butter chicken bites are cooked on the stovetop in just 20 minutes, making them a fast meal option. This recipe is great for weeknight dinners when you need something quick yet flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

20 Minute Chicken Caesar Flatbread

Small flatbread toped with salad and chicken.
20 Minute Chicken Caesar Flatbread. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

This Chicken Caesar flatbread combines cooked chicken and store-bought flatbread for a meal that’s quick to assemble. It's a practical solution for busy nights, highlighting how easy recipes can save time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: 20 Minute Chicken Caesar Flatbread

Italian Pasta Marinara

Pasta Marinara inside a grey plate with extra sauce and basil leaves on the side.
Italian Pasta Marinara. Photo credit: Low Carb - No Carb.

This pasta marinara with zucchini noodles swaps traditional pasta for a lighter option, tossed in rich marinara sauce. This dish highlights how easy recipes can maintain classic flavors while offering different choices.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta Marinara

Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

A pan of beef and broccoli stir fry with a brown sauce.
Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry. Photo credit: Erren's Kitchen.

Marinated steak with broccoli stir-fry comes together quickly and is loaded with flavor. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, showcasing how easy recipes can deliver hearty meals without extensive preparation.
Get the Recipe: Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Chicken Stir Fry

A white plate with chicken and mushrooms in a sauce.
Chicken Stir Fry. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

This chicken stir fry is a vibrant dish that cooks up in just 20 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy evenings. Its straightforward preparation demonstrates how easy recipes can help you create a satisfying meal without hassle.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stir Fry

More Dinner

  • A serving of Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan in a plate.
    Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan
  • Easy Homemade Margherita Pizza

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Primary Sidebar

Close up headshot

Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

More about me →

Popular

  • Overhead image of cozy bowl of potato and sausage chowder with breads on the side.
    Potato And Sausage Chowder
  • Close-up of a bowl of Stuffed Pepper Soup, garnished with parsley, ready to serve.
    Stuffed Pepper Soup
  • A slice of Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop-Tart Bars on a white plate in the foreground, with another slice on a pile of plates in the background.
    Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop-Tart Bars
  • A serving of Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells on a plate.
    Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells

Footer

↑ back to top

About

  • Privacy Policy
  • Disclosure & Terms of Use
  • Cookie Policy
  • Accessibility Policy

Newsletter

  • Sign Up!

Contact

  • Contact

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Copyright © 2024 Black Bicycle LLC