Let’s talk about that week from hell—kid’s activities, the science fair, and the book club meets…at YOUR house. What can you get on the table fast?
One of my favorites that come together quickly are Korean Beef Bowls. Chungah from Damn Delicious has the right idea—her recipe is as fast as it is delicious! I prepare white or jasmine rice in my small Instant Pot, and I truly have a meal on the table in no time.
A true family favorite, Sloppy Joes are another quick option. Natasha from Salt and Lavender serves up a fast weeknight dinner with this recipe. Don’t forget the buns and chips on the side—maybe not the healthiest, but definitely tasty!
Stir-fried meals are always fast and can be prepped ahead. Just a Taste’s Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry with Noodles is a crowd-pleaser that comes together in minutes. Plus, I get to use my wok pan, which I love! I switch it up by using ramen noodles from the produce section, microwaving them for a minute before adding them directly to the wok. You can also change the veggies or protein to suit your tastes. Here is my favorite wok available at Amazon.
How about something super fast, easy, and fancy enough for company? Once Upon a Chef’s Shrimp Scampi with Pasta is on the table in less than an hour. I use flash-frozen Costco shrimp to keep it affordable. If crushing garlic isn’t your thing, grab the jarred minced garlic. Instead of draining the pasta, I add it directly from the water to the pan to help create a creamy sauce. Serve with a simple salad like Arugula to offset the richness of the scampi.
Is there really such a thing as too much pasta in a week? I say no! Delish’s Creamy Sausage & Peppers recipe screams comfort and is on the table in under 45 minutes. With protein, veggies, and cheese, it’s a complete meal that’s oh-so-good! It’s definitely on my menu this week.
If you haven’t heard of sheet pan dinners, now is the time to educate yourself. These meals are fast, easy, and—most importantly—easy to clean up! One of my favorites is Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas by Isabel Eats. This meal comes together quickly, especially if you prep the spice mix ahead of time (I like to triple it and keep it in a jar!). Homemade spice blends taste better and are healthier than the packaged versions. Pair this with her Cilantro Lime Rice (which cooks while the fajitas roast), and dinner is ready.
And Now, for Book Club Night…
Here are some quick snack ideas to whip up:
These Baked Brie Crostini with Crispy Prosciutto come together in minutes and are as tasty as they are impressive.
When you have a little more time (perhaps while prepping the week), make the Cheese Ball from Once Upon a Chef, but try rolling it into individual balls as one of her reviewers suggested. For book club, roll the balls in nuts and parsley, and stick a pretzel stick in as a handle. Super cute, super delicious.
Since someone is probably dieting, make sure to prep some veggies—SkinnyTaste’s Veggie Shooters are clever, healthy, and fun. And these glasses work perfectly for Veggie Shooters.
For a simple sweet, Chocolate-Covered Strawberries are always a hit, and don’t forget bowls of M&Ms—plain and peanut, because everyone loves those!
Not a lot of work, but impressively tasty? Your thoughts?
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