Fast food can still be healthy food and these dishes prove just that. For the meat eaters, vegetarians, pasta aficionados and everything in between, these satisfying recipes will fit both your palate and busy schedule.
Quick and Easy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
With a name like this, you know it’s going to be a speedy meal. Jarred roasted red peppers packed in water are just as nutritious as fresh, so don’t be shy about getting a helping hand from them in the kitchen — especially when the results are this delicious.
Mapo Tofu
Meals built around tofu are always quick to the table. While you’re working on the protein portion, steam spinach and cook a pot of basmati rice for a vegan dinner in under 30 minutes that rivals your favourite take out.
Fast-Fry Pork Loin Chops with Feta Cheese and Black Olives
Turn everyday pork into a fast, real-food Greek feast that will please the entire table. Grab a loaf of whole grain bread and dive into this elegant meal, pronto!
Broiled Salmon
Salmon is the perfect fish for a hurried dinner thanks to its built-in, bold flavour. Paired with greens and frozen, shelled edamame, you’ll want to keep this one in your repertoire for last-minute guests.
Tandoori Chicken Burgers
It can be tempting to hit up the drive-thru for a burger, but making them at home is a much healthier — and more delicious — option. Tandoori spices are a unique spin on this BBQ season favourite.
Curry Chicken Pot Pie
Forget pot pies that take hours to assemble — this quickened-up recipe employs store-bought puff pastry, cooked chicken (use up those leftovers!) and tons of frozen veggies.
Udon Noodles with Shiso
There’s no need to leave your house for a noodle craving when making it at home can be achieved in well under 30 minutes. If you have cooked chicken or tofu handy, add it in the broth to boost this meal’s protein.
Spinach and Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Breasts
A company’s coming kind of meal that doesn’t take all day to prepare. With veggies and protein all in one package, a quick side salad is all you’ll want to round out this elegant, pared-back supper.
Open Faced Eggs Florentine
Breakfast for dinner is a trade secret of the rushed cook. Eggs, spinach and toast are quick to cook, producing a meal that’s far greater than the sum of its parts.
Fast Not-Fried Rice
Back away from the take-out menu! You can get a fake-out fried rice dinner on the table that cuts way back on the fat and sodium, but still tastes like the real thing. Top with a fried or poached egg, and a complete meal is served.
Chicken and Cashew Lettuce Wraps
This high-protein, low-carb dinner can be made with any ground meat, or with tempeh for the meatless crowd. Made into smaller portions, these lettuce wraps make a crowd-pleasing dinner.
Crunchy Noodle Salad
Ina makes her noodle salad to serve a crowd, so you can have it on hand for quick meals a few days after it’s prepared. Instead of hard-to-find soba noodles, quick-cooking spaghetti gives this recipe the same look without compromising the taste or texture — besides, it’s all about that peanut sauce!
Parmigiano and Herb Chicken Breast Tenders
Chicken tenders get the parm treatment for a fast and easy homemade version of the beloved Italian-American dish.
Frittata with Asparagus, Tomato, and Fontina
Packed with protein and seasonal produce, frittatas serve a crowd in a hurry, no matter the meal time. Enjoy a slice for breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner with a loaf of crusty whole grain bread and salad.
Grilled Salmon Grilled Salad
Fire up the grill to make your entire dinner — including the salad — on the open flame. Lean, healthy and packed with warm-weather flavour, this meal is perfect for when time isn’t on your side.
Farmers’ Market Quinoa Salad With Squash Blossoms
Quinoa cooks up in just 15 minutes, making it a healthy starting point for any meal. Farm-fresh veggies require little (if any) cooking, making this beautiful, packable salad come together in a snap. Add a poached egg or crumble of goat cheese on top to make this recipe more substantial.
Pasta Puttanesca
A pasta recipe that packs in salty, bold Mediterranean taste, ready in a flash. Pantry must-haves olives and pasta come together with fresh tomatoes, basil and Parmesan, for a healthy Italian meal that satisfies.
Grilled Flank Steak Wraps with Sesame-Ginger Dressing
Lean, iron-rich flank steak adds substance to these Asian-infused wraps. Whole grain tortillas and raw veggies boost nutrition, and a zippy sauce makes it crave-worthy. There’s nothing sad about a sandwich for dinner when it looks and tastes this flavourful.
Sichuan Vegetable Stir Fry
This is the perfect meal to make when you’re ready to clean out the fridge. Use up any vegetables you have on hand, and give them a quick toss in a hot wok. If desire, add tofu, cooked chicken or beef to the veggies, and serve with steamed brown rice.