Quick 30-Minute Meals: Perfect for Busy Nights

When you’re short on time but still want to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal, quick 30-minute recipes are a lifesaver. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or just looking to save time in the kitchen, these recipes are easy to prepare and use simple ingredients. Here are some quick 30-minute meals that are perfect for busy nights.

1. One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss until the chicken is well coated.
3. Arrange the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with a side of your choice.

2. Quick Shrimp Scampi

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked pasta for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add the white wine (if using) and lemon juice. Cook until the liquid is reduced by half.
5. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley.
7. Serve over cooked pasta.

3. Speedy Vegetable Stir-Fry

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Cooked rice for serving

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, cornstarch, and water. Set aside.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and mixed vegetables. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the soy sauce mixture and stir until everything is well coated and the sauce has thickened.
5. Serve over cooked rice.

4. Easy Tomato Basil Pasta

Ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your favorite)
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they are softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve hot.