5 Healthy & Easy Dinner Recipes Under 30 Minutes

Feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of cooking a healthy and delicious dinner after a long day? Don't worry, you're not alone! We all crave quick and easy meals that won't sacrifice flavor or nutrition. That's why I've put together five fantastic recipes that you can whip up in under 30 minutes, leaving you with more time to relax and enjoy your meal.

1. Sheet Pan Salmon with Roasted Vegetables

This one-pan wonder is a breeze to prepare and offers a healthy dose of protein and veggies. Simply toss salmon fillets and your favorite seasonal vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in a preheated oven until the salmon is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound salmon fillets
• 1 pound mixed vegetables (broccoli, Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, etc.)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the salmon and vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

2. One-Pot Chicken & Rice

A hearty and comforting meal all made in one pot, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Cook chicken breasts, rice, and your favorite vegetables in a single pot for a quick and easy dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup chopped vegetables (carrots, peas, onion, etc.)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken, rice, chicken broth, and vegetables.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the chicken is no longer pink.
3. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve immediately.

3. Speedy Veggie Stir-Fry

Get your veggies in with this vibrant and flavorful stir-fry. You can customize this dish with any of your favorite vegetables and protein sources. It's a great way to use up leftover ingredients from your fridge.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chopped vegetables (broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, etc.)
• 1 cup tofu or chicken, cubed
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add vegetables and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
4. Add tofu or chicken and cook until heated through.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil.
6. Pour the sauce over the stir-fry and cook for 1 minute, or until heated through.
7. Serve over rice or noodles.

4. Black Bean Burgers

A healthy and satisfying alternative to traditional beef burgers, these black bean burgers are packed with protein and fiber. They're easy to make from scratch and can be served on buns, in lettuce wraps, or over a salad.

Ingredients:

• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mash the black beans with a fork until slightly chunky.
2. Add the onion, bread crumbs, egg, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well to combine.
4. Form the mixture into 4 patties.
5. Cook the patties in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

5. Quesadillas with a Twist

Elevate the classic quesadilla with a healthy and flavorful twist. Load your tortillas with your favorite veggies, protein, and a sprinkle of cheese for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 whole-wheat tortillas
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped vegetables (bell peppers, onions, spinach, etc.)
• 1/4 cup cooked chicken or beans
• 1 tablespoon salsa
• 1/4 avocado, sliced

Instructions:

1. Place one tortilla in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Sprinkle with cheese, then top with vegetables, protein, and salsa.
3. Place the other tortilla on top.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve immediately, topped with avocado slices.

There you have it – five simple and healthy dinner recipes that you can whip up in under 30 minutes. Remember to adjust the recipes to your liking and enjoy experimenting with different flavors and ingredients. Happy cooking!