15+ Healthy Easy Dinner Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Finding time to cook healthy meals can be challenging, especially after a long day. Healthy easy dinner recipes can help you prepare delicious meals quickly without sacrificing nutrition. In this article, you’ll discover a variety of simple dishes that are both satisfying and good for you.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, these recipes are designed to fit into your busy lifestyle. With fresh ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create dinners that everyone will enjoy. Get ready to bring tasty and nutritious meals to your table in no time!

1) Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Salad

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Salad is a refreshing and healthy dinner option. It’s packed with flavors and takes only a short time to prepare. The tasty combination of grilled chicken, greens, and fresh herbs makes it a perfect meal.

You will enjoy the zesty lemon flavor paired with tender chicken. Adding ingredients like olives and tomatoes enhances the Mediterranean taste. This salad is not only filling but also great for a warm night.

Ingredients

• 6 oz grilled chicken breast
• 1 tbsp diced green onion
• 1 tbsp diced parsley
• 2 tbsp whole milk Greek yogurt
• 1/2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• Mixed greens
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Olives, sliced
• 1 lemon, juiced

Cooking Instructions

1. Grill the chicken breast until cooked through. It should take about 7-8 minutes at 165°F (75°C).
2. In a bowl, mix yogurt, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
3. Slice the grilled chicken and add it to mixed greens.
4. Top with olives, cherry tomatoes, green onion, and parsley.
5. Drizzle the yogurt dressing over the salad and serve.

2) Quinoa and Black Bean Chili

Quinoa and black bean chili is a healthy and delicious meal option. It is packed with protein and full of flavor. This vegetarian dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

To make it, you will need quinoa, black beans, bell peppers, onions, and a blend of spices. You can easily customize the spice level with jalapeños or chipotle peppers.

It’s a one-pot recipe, meaning less cleanup for you! Just combine all the ingredients, let it simmer, and you’re ready to enjoy a hearty meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 1 can black beans (15 oz), rinsed and drained
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
• 1-2 jalapeños (optional), chopped
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion and bell pepper until soft.
3. Add the quinoa, black beans, tomatoes, and broth.
4. Stir in the jalapeños (if using), cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, covered.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

3) Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a delicious and quick meal you can make in just 20 minutes. The rich flavors of garlic and butter make this dish a favorite. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty and satisfying.

To prepare this dish, start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a pan and add minced garlic. Then, toss in your shrimp and cook until pink.

Once the shrimp is ready, mix in the drained pasta. You can add some fresh parsley and lemon juice for extra flavor. This dish is sure to please anyone at the dinner table.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Drain pasta and mix with shrimp.
6. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper.

4) Miso Glazed Salmon with Greens

Miso glazed salmon is a simple and delicious dinner option. The sweet and savory glaze pairs perfectly with tender greens. This dish is healthy, quick to prepare, and full of flavor.

To make this recipe, you’ll need fresh salmon fillets, miso paste, and your favorite greens such as spinach or kale. This meal comes together easily in under 30 minutes.

First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the salmon with the miso glaze and place it on a baking sheet. Add your greens around the salmon.

Bake for about 15-20 minutes. The salmon should be flaky and the greens tender. Serve it right away for a tasty, healthy dinner.

Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons miso paste
• 2 cups greens (spinach or kale)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brush the salmon fillets with miso paste.
3. Place the salmon on a baking sheet.
4. Add the greens around the salmon.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes until done.

5) Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

Zucchini noodles, often called zoodles, are a fun and healthy alternative to traditional pasta. They cook quickly and pair perfectly with pesto for a fresh meal.

To make this dish, start by spiralizing your zucchini into noodle shapes. You can use a spiralizer or a vegetable peeler for this.

Toss the zoodles with fresh basil pesto, which adds a delicious flavor. You can also mix in cherry tomatoes to brighten up the dish.

This meal is light, healthy, and comes together in just minutes. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner!

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis
• 1 cup basil pesto
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles.
2. In a large bowl, mix the zoodles with basil pesto.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

6) Vegan Buddha Bowl

A Vegan Buddha Bowl is a colorful and nutritious meal. You can mix grains, veggies, and sauces for a tasty dish. It looks great and is easy to make.

Start with a base of whole grains like quinoa or brown rice. Then add fresh greens such as spinach or kale. Next, include protein sources like chickpeas or black beans. For extra flavor, toss in roasted sweet potatoes or other veggies.

You can also add a tasty sauce, like tahini or peanut sauce, to tie everything together. This bowl is not only healthy but also customizable to your taste.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa or brown rice
• 1 cup chickpeas or black beans
• 1 sweet potato, roasted
• 2 cups fresh greens (spinach or kale)
• 1/4 cup tahini or peanut sauce

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the quinoa or brown rice according to package instructions.
2. Roast the sweet potato at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes.
3. In a bowl, layer grains, greens, chickpeas, and sweet potatoes.
4. Drizzle with tahini or peanut sauce and enjoy!

7) Spicy Tofu Stir-fry

Spicy tofu stir-fry is a quick and tasty dinner option. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy. You can make this dish in about 30 minutes!

Start with crispy tofu and your favorite veggies. Bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas work well. Stir-fry them all in a hot pan with a drizzle of oil.

For a flavorful sauce, mix soy sauce, garlic, and a bit of chili paste. Add this to the pan and toss everything together until hot and well-coated.

Serve your spicy tofu stir-fry over steamed rice or quinoa for a filling meal. Enjoy!

Ingredients

• 14 oz (400 g) firm tofu, drained and cubed
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup snap peas
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili paste
• 2 tablespoons oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the cubed tofu and sauté until golden brown.
3. Add the veggies and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes.
4. Mix soy sauce, garlic, and chili paste in a bowl.
5. Pour the sauce over the tofu and veggies. Toss to combine.
6. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
7. Serve over rice or quinoa.

8) Chicken and Broccoli Stir-fry

Chicken and broccoli stir-fry is a quick and tasty dinner option. It takes just about 15 minutes to cook, making it perfect for a busy weeknight. This dish is packed with protein and nutrients.

To make it, you will need chicken breast, broccoli, and a few simple sauces. You can add ginger and garlic for extra flavor. Serve it with rice or enjoy it on its own.

This stir-fry is colorful and easy to customize. Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. It’s a great way to get your greens in!

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 g) chicken breast, sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned.
3. Stir in ginger and garlic.
4. Add broccoli and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
5. Pour in soy sauce and oyster sauce; mix well.
6. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until broccoli is tender.

9) Avocado and Chickpea Salad

This Avocado and Chickpea Salad is a quick and healthy option for dinner. It combines creamy avocado with protein-rich chickpeas for a filling meal.

You can add in your favorite vegetables, like cucumber or cherry tomatoes, for extra flavor. A squeeze of lemon juice brings everything together.

Making this salad is simple and takes just a few minutes. Enjoy it on its own or as a side dish to any meal.

Ingredients

• 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.
2. Drizzle with lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
3. Gently toss everything together until mixed.
4. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before serving.

10) Baked Sweet Potato with Salsa

Baked sweet potatoes are a delicious and healthy option for dinner. They are easy to make and packed with nutrients. This recipe adds a zesty salsa that makes the dish even tastier.

To start, wash and prick your sweet potatoes with a fork. Then, bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 45 minutes or until they are soft.

For the salsa, mix diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl. Once the sweet potatoes are done, cut them open and fill them with the fresh salsa.

It’s simple, satisfying, and full of flavor. Enjoy your healthy meal!

Ingredients

• 2 medium sweet potatoes
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 lime, juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and prick the sweet potatoes with a fork.
3. Bake for 45 minutes or until soft.
4. In a bowl, mix tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice.
5. Cut open the sweet potatoes and fill with salsa. Enjoy!

11) Cauliflower Fried Rice

Cauliflower fried rice is a fantastic, healthy alternative to traditional fried rice. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor. You can whip it up in about 15 minutes!

You start by ricing fresh cauliflower or using pre-riced cauliflower. Then, stir-fry it with your favorite veggies like carrots and green onions. Add soy sauce or Tamari for extra taste.

You can also toss in eggs or tofu for protein. The sesame oil gives it a pleasant nutty flavor. This dish is low in carbs and gluten-free, making it a great option for many diets.

Ingredients

• 1 medium cauliflower
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas)
• 2 green onions
• 2 eggs or 1/2 cup tofu
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or Tamari
• 1 clove garlic

Cooking Instructions

1. Rice the cauliflower and set aside.
2. Heat sesame oil in a large pan over medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
3. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Stir in mixed vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes.
5. Move veggies to the side and scramble the eggs/tofu in the pan.
6. Combine everything, then add cauliflower and soy sauce.
7. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently.

12) Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers

Turkey and spinach stuffed peppers make a tasty and healthy dinner option. You’ll love how easy they are to prepare. Plus, they are packed with nutrients.

Start by cooking some ground turkey in a skillet. Then, add in fresh spinach and any spices you enjoy. Mix in cooked brown rice and a bit of salsa for flavor.

Next, hollow out some bell peppers and fill them with your turkey mixture. Top with cheese, if you like, and bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Ingredients

• 4 bell peppers
• 1 lb (450 g) ground turkey
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook ground turkey in a skillet until no longer pink.
3. Stir in spinach, cooked rice, and salsa.
4. Hollow out the bell peppers and fill them with the turkey mixture.
5. Top with cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 25 minutes. Enjoy!

13) Honey Soy Glazed Chicken

Honey Soy Glazed Chicken is a tasty and easy dinner option. It combines sweet honey and salty soy sauce to create a delicious sauce. You can prepare this dish in a skillet or grill it for extra flavor.

To make this recipe, start with chicken breast. Then, marinate it in a mix of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil. This step adds rich flavors to the meat.

Cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through. The glaze will turn sticky and sweet. Serve it with rice or vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Green onions for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil.
2. Place chicken in the marinade and let it sit for 30 minutes.
3. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
4. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked (165°F or 75°C).
5. Brush the chicken with extra marinade while cooking.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions.

14) Lentil and Vegetable Soup

Lentil and vegetable soup is a healthy and easy dinner option. Packed with nutrients, it’s perfect for busy nights. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables.

Start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need lentils, onions, carrots, and tomatoes. Adding herbs like thyme and basil boosts the flavor.

This soup cooks in about 30 minutes, making it a quick meal. Serve it warm with crusty bread for a complete dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 cup lentils (brown or green)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the lentils under cold water.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion and carrots until soft.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the lentils, tomatoes, and broth.
5. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
7. Serve warm.

15) Tuna and Avocado Wrap

The Tuna and Avocado Wrap is a quick and healthy dinner option. It’s packed with protein and healthy fats, making it filling and satisfying. You can whip this up in just a few minutes.

Start with canned tuna, which you can mix with sriracha for a spicy kick. Add creamy avocado and your favorite crisp veggies. This gives the wrap great flavor and texture.

To make it even more delicious, consider adding some lemon juice and herbs. Simply roll everything in a tortilla, and you’re ready to enjoy a tasty meal!

Ingredients

• 1 can of tuna
• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (optional)
• Lettuce or spinach
• Diced tomatoes
• Tortilla wraps
• Lemon juice (to taste)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Cooking Instructions

1. Drain the canned tuna.
2. In a bowl, mix the tuna with sriracha if you’re using it.
3. Mash the avocado and mix in lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Lay the tortilla flat, then spread the avocado mixture.
5. Add tuna and top with veggies.
6. Roll the tortilla tightly and slice in half to serve.