Looking for easy dinners that scream summer freshness? Whether you're a pro in the kitchen or just starting out, these weeknight wonders are perfect for those warm evenings when you crave something light yet satisfying. From quick salads to vibrant pasta dishes, these meals are designed to be flavorful, fast, and family-friendly. Say goodbye to the dinner dilemma and hello to stress-free evenings with dishes that will keep everyone coming back for more.
![An overhead image of two cabbage soups in a white serving bowl.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Cabbage-Soup.jpg)
Vegetable Korma
![An overhead image of vegetable korma in a bowl, garnished with cilantro and with a spoon on the side.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Vegetable-Korma-11.jpg)
Korma (or kurma) is a creamy curry made with coconut, ginger, and garlic. This vegan mixed vegetable korma, with potatoes and peas, served with flatbreads like roti or poori, is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Korma
Kung Pao Tofu
![An image of kung pao tofu served in a bowl over rice.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Kung-Pao-Tofu-13.jpg)
Kung Pao tofu is a colorful, crunchy dish with bell peppers, tofu, and peanuts. Ready in 30 minutes, it's perfect for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Tofu
Italian Chopped Salad
![Italian chopped salad in a bowl next to dressing.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Italian-Chopped-Salad-Horizontal.jpg)
The best Italian chopped salad, packed with fresh vegetables and a light champagne vinaigrette, makes for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner. Add your favorite protein on top and you're good to go.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chopped Salad
Pasta alla Norma
![An overhead image of Pasta alla Norma in a bowl with another bowl of pasta on the side.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Pasta-Alla-Norma-11-1536x1025-1.jpg)
Pasta alla Norma combines a rich tomato sauce, sautéed eggplant, and fresh basil. This classic Italian meal is ready in 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma
Jamaican Rasta Pasta
![An overhead image of cooked rasta pasta on a serving bowl.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rasta-Pasta.jpg)
Vegan rasta pasta is mildly spiced and made with fresh ingredients. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a quick weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Rasta Pasta
Tuscan Cannellini Bean Soup
![An overhead view of the Tuscan bean soup placed on a serving dish with a spoon on the side.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Ribollita-Tuscan-Bean-Soup-Horizontal.jpg)
This Tuscan soup with beans is a hearty, budget-friendly weeknight dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Cannellini Bean Soup
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
![An overhead image of sun dried tomato pasta in a rectangular dish.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Sun-Dried-Tomato-Pasta.jpg)
Creamy sun-dried tomato pasta is a one-pot dish loaded with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, ricotta, and parmesan. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's a perfect weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
Easy, Spicy Korean Gochujang Tofu
![An overhead image of gochujang tofu rice bowl with chopsticks on the side.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Gochujang-Tofu-Horizontal-on-Rice.jpg)
Gochujang tofu features crisp, golden tofu in a Korean-inspired sweet and spicy sauce. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s a great source of vegan protein.
Get the Recipe: Easy, Spicy Korean Gochujang Tofu
Nigerian Jollof Rice
![A close up image of nigerian jolloff rice garnished with slices of red onion and bay leaves.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Nigerian-Jollof.jpg)
Nigerian jollof rice is a tomato and pepper-infused one-pot meal. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s a vibrant and flavorful dish.
Get the Recipe: Nigerian Jollof Rice
Easy One Pot Cabbage Soup
![An overhead image of two cabbage soups in a white serving bowl.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Cabbage-Soup.jpg)
This one-pot vegan cabbage soup is packed with nutrients and flavor, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner. Plus, it's great for lunches!
Get the Recipe: Easy One Pot Cabbage Soup
Chana Masala
![Top view image of chana masala served in a white bowl.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Chana-Masala.jpg)
Chana masala is an authentic vegan Indian chickpea curry that’s ready in 30 minutes. It’s a one-pot dish, perfect for easy cooking.
Get the Recipe: Chana Masala
Ethiopian Cabbage
![A close up image of cooked Ethiopian cabbage in a skillet pan with a wooden serving spoon mixing the dish.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Ethiopian-Cabbage-1.jpg)
Ethiopian cabbage stew (Atakilt Wat) is a flavorful, one-pot meal. Made with pantry veggies and spices, it’s ready in just 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Ethiopian Cabbage
Broccoli Pesto Pasta
![An overhead image of broccoli pesto pasta served in a plate.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Broccoli-Pesto-Pasta.jpg)
This 30-minute broccoli pesto pasta with toasted lemon zest, roasted broccoli, and cherry tomatoes is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Pesto Pasta
Easy Cabbage Curry
![An overhead image of cooked cabbage curry in a round plate.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Cabbage-Curry.jpg)
This easy vegan and gluten-free cabbage curry is ready in just 25 minutes. Packed with nutrients, it's a perfect one-pot weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cabbage Curry
Rigatoni Arrabbiata
![Overhead view of rigatoni arrabbiata dish placed on a white plate and baking dish.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rigatoni-Arrabbiata-Featured-Shots.jpg)
Rigatoni arrabbiata is a simple pasta dish with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a quick weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Rigatoni Arrabbiata
Pasta Fresca
![An overhead image of pasta fresca in a white plate with cheese and tomatoes in the background.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Pasta-Fresca.jpg)
This easy pasta fresca recipe with fresh ingredients is ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Fresca
Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash
![A close up image of a spaghetti squash scraped out by a spoon placed on a white plate.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Instant-Pot-Spaghetti-Squash.jpg)
Instant Pot spaghetti squash is a quick, effortless way to enjoy tender squash. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's great for any dish.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash
Spicy Vodka Pasta
![An overhead view of a cooked spicy vodka pasta in a white plate.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Spicy-Vodka-Pasta.jpg)
This take on spicy vodka pasta can be made with or without vodka and easily made vegan or vegetarian! It's a great weeknight dinner or date night meal.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Vodka Pasta
Instant Pot Tomato Soup
![Close up of Instant Pot Tomato soup in a white bowl, with grilled cheese next to it.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Instant-Pot-Tomato-Soup-Horizontal.jpg)
Instant Pot tomato soup can be made with fresh or canned tomatoes. Versatile and nutritious, this soup is ready in 30 minutes and is vegan.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Tomato Soup
Savory Sweet Potato Casserole
![An angled shot of savory sweet potato casserole served in a baking dish.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Savory-Sweet-Potato-Casserole-Final-Shots-Horizontal-1536x1025-1.jpg)
This savory sweet potato casserole is a healthy alternative to the traditional version. Made with garlic and a honey walnut topping, it's perfect for a holiday meal or a weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Savory Sweet Potato Casserole
3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole
![An image of broccoli cheese casserole served on a table with a spoon on the right side.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/3-ingredient-broccoli-cheese-casserole-9.jpg)
Broccoli cheese casserole is a simple, nutritious dish with just three ingredients. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s great for busy days.
Get the Recipe: 3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Stuffed Baked Potatoes
![A close-up image of stuffed baked potatoes.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Stuffed-Baked-Potatoes-10.jpg)
Stuffed baked potatoes with mushrooms, spinach, and melted cheddar are perfect for busy nights. Ready in 30 minutes, they are quick and tasty.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Baked Potatoes
Spicy Alfredo Pasta
![An overhead iimage of two spicy alfredo pasta in a white plate.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Spicy-Alfredo.jpg)
This spicy Alfredo sauce recipe is perfect for one-pot pasta and comes together in just 30 minutes. Made with a creamy red pepper base and herbs, it's great for weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Alfredo Pasta
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.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/One-Pot-Lemon-Ricotta-Pasta-9-scaled-1.jpg)
This classic one-pot lemon ricotta pasta is ready in 15 minutes and is perfect for any occasion, whether a quick weeknight dinner or a dinner party.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Penne Pomodoro
![An close up photo of cooked penne pomodoro in a pot.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Penne-Pomodoro.jpg)
Penne Pomodoro is perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight meal. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's also budget-friendly.
Get the Recipe: Penne Pomodoro
Easy, Creamy White Bean Chili
![An overhead image of vegan white bean chili with toppings.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Vegan-White-Bean-Chili-Horizontal.jpg)
Vegan white bean chili is a hearty meal made from pantry ingredients. Ready in 30 minutes, it's perfect for a nutritious dinner.
Get the Recipe: Easy, Creamy White Bean Chili
Authentic Bombay Potatoes
![Horizontal shot of Bombay Potatoes on a plate with naan, with extra naan and red onions on the side.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Bombay-Potatoes-Horizontal-Shot-1536x1004-1.jpg)
Bombay Potatoes are quick, crispy, and spicy, making them a family favorite. Ready in just 30 minutes, they are vegan and gluten-free.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Bombay Potatoes
Stir Fry Green Beans
![A top-down view of stir-fried green beans with coconut on a white plate, accompanied by a white napkin and fork.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Stir-Fry-Green-Beans-with-Coconut.jpg)
Green beans stir-fried with coconut and Indian spices make a healthy and quick dish. Enjoy it with rice or flatbread, ready in just 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Stir Fry Green Beans
Shake and Bake Pork Chops
![Two shake and bake pork chops on a plate.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Shake-and-Bake-Pork-Chops.jpg)
Shake and Bake Pork Chops offer a flavorful, crispy meal without frying, ready in 25 minutes. Great for a quick weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Shake and Bake Pork Chops
Tex Mex Chicken
![Chicken fajitas in foil with peppers, onions and sour cream.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Tex-Mex-Chicken.jpg)
This Tex Mex Chicken recipe makes dinner easy and minimizes cleanup, perfect for those busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Tex Mex Chicken
Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce
![Lettuce wraps filled with shredded chicken, shredded carrots, and peanut sauce on a plate.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Chicken-Lettuce-Wraps-with-Peanut-Sauce.jpg)
Shredded rotisserie chicken and crunchy veggies wrapped in lettuce with creamy peanut sauce make for a super quick and healthy weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce
25-Minute Bacon-Avocado Ground Beef Burger
![An up-close shot of bacon-avocado ground beef burger on a flat white surface.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/25-Minute-Bacon-Avocado-Ground-Beef-Burger.jpg)
Learn how to build the best bacon-avocado burger at home with an easy-to-follow recipe. This six-layer burger is the right decision for dinner tonight.
Get the Recipe: 25-Minute Bacon-Avocado Ground Beef Burger
Moroccan Salmon Sheet Pan Dinner
![Sheet pan salmon and cauliflower.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Moroccan-Salmon-Sheet-Pan-Dinner.jpg)
Moroccan salmon with cauliflower, lemon, olives, and spices is your ticket to the easiest exotic weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Moroccan Salmon Sheet Pan Dinner
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