One of the best ways to spend less time in the kitchen is to have a collection of surefire recipes and meal ideas that are so easy you can prepare them in your sleep (but please don't!). These 'recipes' are more a collection of ingredients, combined and heated or chilled. The secrets to these recipes are convenience products available in every grocery store.
Make a special trip to your local supermarket and look for new foods. Make a note of the ones that pique your interest, then think about ways to combine them to make updated versions of your family's favorites. Then stock your pantry, fridge and freezer with these ingredients and no matter how tired you are when you get home, you can have a great dinner on the table in minutes. And be sure to look at Easy Meals for even more quick ideas.
The Easiest Meals
- Tortellini and Peas
This simple recipe is one I make often when I'm really busy. Use any flavor of tortellini and any other type of frozen vegetable to make it your own.
- Fish Veracruz
Just throw some ingredients into a saucepan and simmer for a few minutes for an elegant and easy main dish.
- Tuna Melts
These super fast hot sandwiches are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. You can use canned chicken or canned salmon in place of the tuna if you'd like.
- Chicken Caesar Wraps
If you aren't aware of salad mixes, take a look in your grocer's produce aisle. There are dozens of salad mixes that let you make a fancy salad in seconds. Use them to make sandwich wraps too!
- Tomato Tortellini Soup
This soup is delicious and fast, especially when topped with garlic croutons. Serve it with a cold or a hot sandwich for lunch.
- Red and White Tortellini
This is another of my fail-safe, go-to recipes when my life is crazy. It's satisfying, comforting, delicious, and super easy.
- Taco Dogs
This easy recipe can be varied in so many ways. Use turkey dogs, choose mild or spicy salsa, add other toppings like taco sauce or chopped green onions. Have fun with your food!
- Ham a la King
Anything "a la king" is made of a creamy sauce filled with good things served over hot biscuits, cornbread, or mashed potatoes.
- Chicken and Fettuccine
Some pasta, frozen veggies, cooked chicken, and a can of diced tomatoes are all you need to make this delicious and fast recipe.
- Turkey Marinara
On your way home from work, stop at the deli and pick up some sliced cooked turkey. With a few pantry ingredients, this meal is on the table in minutes.
- Swiss Vegetable Soup
Use this recipe as a template. You can dress up any canned soup by adding veggies, meats, cheeses, and creamy sauces.
