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5 Quick Recipe Ideas for Busy Weeknights

Busy weeknights are a common challenge for many families. Between work, school, and extracurricular activities, finding time to cook a nutritious and tasty meal can seem nearly impossible. However, with a bit of planning and some simple recipes, you can whip up delicious dinners in no time. Here are five quick recipe ideas that are perfect for those hectic evenings.

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1. One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Vegetables

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups of your favorite vegetables (e.g., broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots), chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken and vegetables to the bowl and toss to coat.
4. Spread the chicken and vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

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2. Quick Beef Stir-Fry

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) beef strips
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Cooked rice, to serve

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and garlic, cooking until the beef is browned.
3. Add the vegetables and soy sauce, stir-frying until the vegetables are just tender.
4. Serve hot over rice.

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3. Easy Shrimp Tacos

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Taco shells
• Toppings: lettuce, tomato, cheese, sour cream

Instructions:

1. Toss the shrimp with the taco seasoning.
2. Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat and cook the shrimp until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Assemble the tacos with the cooked shrimp and your favorite toppings.

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4. Pasta Primavera

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225g) pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and vegetables, sautéing until tender.
3. Toss the cooked pasta with the vegetables, adding the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Serve warm.

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5. Quick and Easy Quesadillas

Ingredients:

• Tortillas
• Shredded cheese (e.g., cheddar or Monterey Jack)
• Filling options: cooked chicken, beef, or vegetables
• Toppings: sour cream, salsa, guacamole

Instructions:

1. Lay a tortilla flat and sprinkle cheese on one half. Add your choice of filling on top of the cheese.
2. Fold the tortilla in half and cook in a skillet over medium heat until the tortilla is golden and the cheese has melted, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Serve with your favorite toppings.

These recipes are not only quick and easy but also versatile, allowing you to substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand. With these ideas, you can enjoy delicious, home-cooked meals even on the busiest of weeknights.