So do a little bit of planning, keep your eyes open at the grocery store for ingredients that cook quickly, and take your time and enjoy the process of cooking a meal. Even if a meal can be made in 30 minutes, that doesn't mean you have a stopwatch clicking away!
30 Minute Meals
- Soup and Sandwich Meal
I love the combination of rich, slightly sweet soup and savory, crisp sandwiches with melted cheese and slightly softened apples. If you can't find Tomato Bisque Soup in your supermarket, just add 1/2 cup of light cream to an ordinary can of tomato soup. - Skillet Meal
Frozen fully cooked meatballs are one of my greatest 'quick cook' secrets. You can make your own and freeze them on a leisurely weekend if you don't want to purchase a bag from your supermarket. This hearty meal is perfect for a cold fall night. And almost any skillet meal will do for this menu. - Broiled or Grilled Meats
This 30 minute meal is so easy; while the chicken cooks under the broiler or on your outdoor grill, you have time to finish the rest of the meal. Substitute grilled steaks, pork chops, or tuna steaks for the chicken for a nice change. - Pizza Party
With a selection of just a few different toppings, you can make sure that everybody gets their own favorite pizza. To save even more time, prebake the crusts and cover them loosely until dinner time. - 30 Minute Pasta Meal
Pasta is the ingredient I turn to most often when making quick meals. Once you get your own kitchen rhythm going, you'll find there are almost infinite choices for pasta toppings and you'll be able to assemble a meal in your sleep (but don't!). - Frittata Dinner
Frittatas cook quickly and are an excellent choice for 30 minute meals. They make wonderful use of leftover cooked pasta, rice, meats, cheese, and vegetables. With a simple fruit salad, this dinner will satisfy almost anyone. - Soup and Salad Meal
This wonderful hearty soup is so filling that a crisp green salad and some inventive toppings are all you need. Soups and salads are a classic combination.
