15+ Fast Recipes for Quick and Delicious Meals

Fast recipes are a lifesaver for anyone with a busy schedule. They allow you to prepare delicious meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re busy with work, school, or family commitments, quick meals can fit into your day.

In this article, you will discover a variety of recipes that can be made in no time. These dishes are perfect for weeknight dinners or whenever you need something tasty and quick. You’ll find that cooking can be both easy and enjoyable, even on your busiest days.

1) 10-Minute Stir-Fry

A quick stir-fry is a great way to make a tasty meal in just 10 minutes. You can use any kind of pasta noodles or even rice for a base. Fresh vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and mushrooms add flavor and nutrition.

To add protein, consider using chicken or tofu. A simple sauce made with soy sauce and honey can bring everything together nicely. This dish is not only fast to prepare but also easy to customize based on what you have at home.

Ingredients

• 1 package pasta noodles (or rice)
• 1 red or yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 container mushrooms, sliced
• 1 large bunch broccoli, chopped
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Optional: cooked chicken or tofu

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the pasta noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large pan, heat a little oil over medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
3. Add the bell pepper, mushrooms, and broccoli. Cook for 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the cooked noodles and soy sauce. Stir well.
5. Drizzle with honey and mix until heated through.
6. Serve immediately. Enjoy your quick and tasty meal!

2) Quick Chicken Quesadillas

Quick chicken quesadillas are a tasty and easy meal you can whip up in no time. They are perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without too much effort.

You can use leftover chicken or cook some fresh. Just add cheese and your favorite toppings, like peppers or onions. Cook them on a skillet until they are golden brown and the cheese melts.

These quesadillas are customizable, allowing you to add what you love. You can even serve them with salsa or guacamole for extra flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
• 4 flour tortillas
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (optional)
• Cooking spray or oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat (about 350°F/180°C).
2. Spray the skillet with cooking spray or add a little oil.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet.
4. Add shredded chicken, cheese, and any other toppings.
5. Top with another tortilla.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
7. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
8. Remove, slice, and enjoy!

3) Fast Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a quick and tasty dish. You can make this meal in about 20 minutes using just a few simple ingredients. It’s perfect for busy days when you want something delicious without a lot of fuss.

To begin, gather your ingredients. You’ll need uncooked spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and salt. While the pasta cooks, you can prepare the sauce.

Once your spaghetti is ready, drain it and toss it with sautéed garlic in olive oil. Add red pepper flakes based on your spice preference. Mix everything well, and your meal is ready!

Ingredients

• 1 pound uncooked spaghetti
• ½ cup olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste)
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add sliced garlic and cook until golden.
4. Stir in red pepper flakes and salt.
5. Combine spaghetti with the garlic mixture. Enjoy!

4) Speedy Shrimp Tacos

Speedy shrimp tacos are a quick and tasty option for busy weeknights. You can have them ready in about 15 to 30 minutes. The shrimp cooks fast and pairs well with easy toppings.

To make the tacos, you can use flour tortillas for a nice wrap. Feel free to add your favorite toppings like lettuce, avocado, and salsa. A creamy cilantro sauce adds a delicious touch.

This meal is not just fast, but packed with flavor. It’s perfect for dinner or even a casual gathering with friends.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 flour tortillas
• Toppings: lettuce, avocado, salsa, cilantro sauce

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat (350°F / 180°C).
2. Add shrimp, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook for 3-4 minutes until shrimp is pink.
4. Warm the tortillas in another pan.
5. Assemble tacos with shrimp and desired toppings.

5) Rapid Vegetable Curry

You can whip up a tasty vegetable curry in just 15 minutes. This recipe is quick, easy, and full of flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without the long cooking time.

Start with some frozen mixed vegetables or fresh veggies like bell peppers, carrots, and spinach. Add a can of chickpeas for protein and a rich texture. For seasoning, use your favorite curry powder and some coconut milk for creaminess.

Serve it over rice or with bread to make a complete meal. You’ll love how simple and delicious this dish is!

Ingredients

• 2 cups mixed vegetables (fresh or frozen)
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• Salt to taste
• Cooked rice or bread for serving

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large pan, heat the mixed vegetables over medium heat.
2. Add the chickpeas and coconut milk.
3. Stir in the curry powder and salt.
4. Simmer for about 5-7 minutes.
5. Serve hot over rice or with bread.

6) Instant Pancakes

Making instant pancakes is simple and quick. You can whip them up in no time for breakfast or a snack. With just a few ingredients, you will have fluffy pancakes ready to serve.

To make these pancakes, you need a pancake mix that you can find easily. These mixes often only require water to prepare, making it easy and convenient. Add your favorite toppings like syrup, fruit, or whipped cream for extra flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 cups instant pancake mix
• 1 1/2 cups water
• Optional: fruit, syrup, or toppings of your choice

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix the pancake mix and water until combined.
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat (around 350°F or 175°C).
3. Pour the batter onto the skillet, using about 1/4 cup for each pancake.
4. Cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook until golden brown.

7) Superfast Fried Rice

Making superfast fried rice is quick and easy. You can whip it up in just 15 minutes. This recipe is perfect for using leftover rice and any veggies you have in your fridge.

Start by heating some oil in a pan. Add chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers. You can also include cooked protein like chicken or shrimp if you like.

Once the veggies are tender, add the rice. Stir it all together and pour in soy sauce for flavor. Cook until everything is heated through.

This dish is highly customizable. You can add an egg or any spices you enjoy.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 cup mixed vegetables
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• Optional: cooked protein (chicken, shrimp)
• Optional: 1 egg

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
3. Stir in cooked rice.
4. Add soy sauce and mix well.
5. Optional: Push rice to one side, scramble the egg, and mix in.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

8) Quick Teriyaki Noodles

Quick teriyaki noodles are a delicious meal that you can whip up in just a few minutes. They are perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something tasty without much fuss.

You just need some simple ingredients that you may already have at home. You can customize this dish with your favorite vegetables or proteins for added flavor and nutrition.

Start by cooking your noodles according to the package instructions. Meanwhile, prepare a fast teriyaki sauce with soy sauce, honey, and garlic. Once the noodles are ready, toss them with the sauce and vegetables in a hot pan.

Ingredients

• 8 oz noodles
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (like bell peppers and broccoli)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the noodles according to the package directions.
2. In a saucepan, mix soy sauce, honey, and garlic.
3. Heat mixture until warm, then add cooked noodles.
4. Toss in vegetables and stir for 2-3 minutes.

9) Swift Tomato Basil Soup

This tomato basil soup is simple and quick to prepare. With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious meal in no time. It’s perfect for busy days or when you want something cozy.

You will need fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil. Optionally, you can add cream for extra richness. This recipe takes about 10 minutes from start to finish.

Ingredients

• 4 fresh tomatoes
• 1 cup fresh basil
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional: 1/2 cup cream

Cooking Instructions

1. Chop the tomatoes and garlic.
2. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat (350°F / 175°C).
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add tomatoes and basil, cooking until soft.
5. Blend until smooth.
6. Stir in cream if desired, and heat through.
7. Serve warm with more basil on top.

10) Blitz Cucumber Salad

Blitz Cucumber Salad is a quick and refreshing dish perfect for warm days. You can whip it up in just a few minutes. This salad is light, crunchy, and packed with flavor.

Start by slicing cucumbers thinly. Toss them with rice vinegar, a bit of sugar, and salt. Add some chopped scallions for extra taste.

This salad is great as a side dish or a light lunch. It pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• 2 cucumbers
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 scallions, sliced

Cooking Instructions

1. Slice the cucumbers thinly and place them in a bowl.
2. In a small bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt.
3. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss well.
4. Add the sliced scallions and mix again.
5. Serve immediately or let it chill for a bit before serving.

11) Express Beef Stir-Fry

This Express Beef Stir-Fry is quick and tasty. You can make it in about 20 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.

You just need a few ingredients that you probably already have at home. Tender beef and fresh vegetables come together with a sweet and savory sauce.

Use a high heat to cook the beef quickly. This keeps it juicy and flavorful. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
2. Add the beef slices and cook for 1-2 minutes until browned, stirring frequently.
3. Add the garlic and vegetables. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender.
4. Mix soy sauce and sugar in a small bowl and pour it over the stir-fry. Cook for 1 more minute.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles. Enjoy your meal!

12) Snappy Tuna Sandwich

Making a Snappy Tuna Sandwich is quick and easy. You’ll want to gather some basic ingredients. This sandwich is perfect for lunch or a fast snack.

Start with canned tuna, drained well. Mix it with mayonnaise, diced onions, and a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor. You can also add pickles or celery for a nice crunch.

Spread the mixture on your favorite bread or toast. Top it with lettuce or tomato for added freshness. It’s simple but delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 can of tuna (5 oz/142 g)
• 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon of diced onions
• 1 teaspoon of lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Bread or toast
• Lettuce or tomato (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Drain the tuna.
2. In a bowl, mix tuna, mayonnaise, onions, and lemon juice.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Spread on bread or toast.
5. Add lettuce or tomato if desired.

13) Fast Chicken Alfredo

Fast Chicken Alfredo is a delicious and easy dish you can prepare in about 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe uses minimal ingredients and saves you time on cleanup.

You start by cooking chicken in a pan until it’s golden brown. Then, add fettuccine pasta directly into the same pan with cream and cheese for a quick and creamy sauce.

You can adjust the flavors by adding salt, pepper, or garlic if you like!

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional garlic or Italian seasoning

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat a large pan over medium heat.
2. Cook the chicken breasts until golden, about 5-7 minutes on each side.
3. Add fettuccine, heavy cream, and cheese to the pan.
4. Cook until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.
5. Season with salt, pepper, or garlic as desired.

14) Easy Egg Fried Rice

Easy egg fried rice is a quick and tasty dish you can whip up in no time. It’s perfect for using leftover rice and makes a great meal any day of the week.

You’ll need just a few simple ingredients. Eggs add protein and flavor, while soy sauce gives it a nice savory kick. Green onions bring in a fresh taste.

To make it, heat some oil in a pan, then add your eggs and stir until cooked. Next, toss in the cold rice and soy sauce. Mix everything together well and enjoy your meal!

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons cooking oil
• 4 eggs, beaten with a pinch of salt
• 4 cups cold jasmine rice
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 4 green onions, chopped

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat the cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked.
3. Stir in the cold jasmine rice and soy sauce.
4. Mix well and cook for 3-5 minutes.
5. Add chopped green onions and serve hot.

15) Quick Pesto Pasta

Quick pesto pasta is a simple and delicious meal you can whip up in no time. With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy a flavorful dish that feels special.

Start by cooking your pasta according to the package directions. While the pasta cooks, prepare your pesto. You can use store-bought or make your own with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese.

Once the pasta is done, drain it and mix it with the pesto. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated well. You can also add some cooked veggies for extra nutrition.

Enjoy your quick pesto pasta warm with a sprinkle of cheese on top!

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225 g) pasta
• 1 cup fresh basil
• ¼ cup pine nuts
• 2 cloves garlic
• ½ cup olive oil
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions.
2. In a blender, combine basil, pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
3. Mix in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
4. Drain pasta and combine with pesto.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!