Everyday Cooking

Everyday Cooking

Our 20 Most Popular Dinner Recipes From 2020 That'll Stand the Test of Time

Posted on January 1, 2021 by Laura Grande

It's easy to fall back on the same dinner recipes time and time again. Life can get busy and we're often left staring at our half-empty pantries wondering what we should make next. Look no further! Despite a global pandemic, 2020 was a strong year for new recipes from our Food Network Canada recipe developers. They gave us everything from easy Chinese hot pot and slow cooker French onion soup to Ethiopian mushroom stir-fry and spicy Korean gochujang cauliflower popcorn. We revisit the best of the best from 2020. No doubt these most popular recipes from this year will stand the test of time.

  • Fiery Korean Gochujang Cauliflower Popcorn
     
    1 of 20

    Fiery Korean Gochujang Cauliflower Popcorn

    <p> Topping the list in 2020 was this healthy side dish (or mid-day snack) with a spicy kick. For the uninitiated, gochujang is a fermented Korean hot pepper paste typically featured in dishes with grilled <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/high-protein-vegetarian-meals/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">proteins</a> such as chicken, beef and pork. These lightly battered <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/cauliflower-recipes-satisfy-carb-cravings/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">cauliflower</a> bites are the perfect introduction to the recipe. Popcorn fans, rejoice! For more inspiration, check out <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/fun-with-food/photos/pinterest-predicts-food-trends-2021/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pinterest's food trend predictions for 2021</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/blog/fiery-korean-gochujang-cauliflower-popcorn/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Fiery Korean Gochujang Cauliflower Popcorn</a></strong> </p>
  • Chinese Hot Pot
     
    2 of 20

    Chinese Hot Pot

    <p> Chinese hot pot is the ultimate social dining experience, but given current global circumstances, you might want to grab your apron and prep you own version from the comfort of your own home instead. Customize your own simmering pot of broth with a variety of proteins, veggies, spices and a string of incredible dipping sauces. You can also check out these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/global-eats/photos/international-recipes-to-fill-travelling-void/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">recipes from around the world that'll help fill your travelling void</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/blog/this-is-how-to-make-the-perfect-chinese-hot-pot-at-home/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Chinese Hot Pot</a></strong> </p>
  • Oven-Baked Zucchini and Corn Fritters
     
    3 of 20

    Oven-Baked Zucchini and Corn Fritters

    <p> Skip the hassle of deep-frying entirely with this vibrant, healthy side dish you'll want to make on repeat. Adding grated <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/easy-and-delicious-zucchini-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">zucchini</a> to a classic corn fritters recipe will add an additional pop of colour and texture. Don't forget to serve with sour cream or pesto! Check out these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/fun-with-food/photos/food-trends-2021/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">tasty food trends we'll be devouring in 2021</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/blog/oven-baked-zucchini-corn-fritters-side-dish/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Oven-Baked Zucchini and Corn Fritters</a></strong> </p>
  • Chickpea Pasta, Plus 5 More Chickpea Recipes
     
    4 of 20

    Chickpea Pasta, Plus 5 More Chickpea Recipes

    <p> One can of humble <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/20-chickpea-recipes-to-make-your-heart-happy/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">chickpeas</a> can result in a diverse assortment of recipe ideas, from stuffed peppers to sandwiches. It's the versatile, budget-friendly ingredient we needed in 2020! For this mouth-watering pasta recipe, simply simmer the chickpeas in marinara sauce (store-bought or <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/fresh-tomato-sauce/15705/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">homemade</a>) until slightly softened, about 15 minutes. Pour over pasta of your choice and sprinkle with Parmesan. Bon appetit! </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/blog/one-can-of-chickpeas-six-different-meals/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Chickpea Pasta, Plus 5 More Chickpea Recipes</a></strong> </p>
  • Grilled Stuffed Zucchini Boats With Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
     
    5 of 20

    Grilled Stuffed Zucchini Boats With Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

    <p> Visually, this recipe is stunning. Taste-wise, it's even better than it looks – so that's saying something! Even carnivores will want in on this grilled <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/high-protein-vegan-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">vegan-friendly</a> dish. Bold red cherry tomatoes and bright zucchini pair beautifully with protein-packed lentils and rice for an easy recipe that'll also brighten your dinner table. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/bbq/blog/grilled-stuffed-zucchini-boats-roasted-cherry-tomatoes-vegan/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Grilled Stuffed Zucchini Boats With Roasted Cherry Tomatoes</a></strong> </p>
  • Slow Cooker French Onion Soup
     
    6 of 20

    Slow Cooker French Onion Soup

    <p> Think it's impossible to elevate this classic recipe even further? Well, think again, because this slow cooker version allows plenty of time for all the seasonings and ingredients to blend together on a light simmer. Now you can spend all that time you would have used on caramelizing onions to do other tasks, while the delicious odours wafting out of your slow cooker fills your home. Find more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/global-eats/photos/classic-soups-from-around-the-world/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">classic soups from around the world</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/blog/slow-cooker-french-onion-soup/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Slow Cooker French Onion Soup</a></strong> </p>
  • Ethiopian Mushroom Stir-Fry
     
    7 of 20

    Ethiopian Mushroom Stir-Fry

    <p> This <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/mostly-plant-based-recipes-where-meat-isnt-the-star/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">plant-based</a> alternative to the traditional Ethiopian stir-fry (typically made with beef or lamb) is an easy and delicious weeknight meal. Bell peppers, mushrooms, jalapeno and various spices come together beautifully and can be enjoyed on top of quinoa, rice or fonio. Just don't forget the <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/quick-injera/23285/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">injera</a> (spongy fermented Ethiopian flatbread)! </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/blog/ethiopian-mushroom-stir-fry/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ethiopian Mushroom Stir-Fry</a></strong> </p>
  • 5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Beef Bolognese
     
    8 of 20

    5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Beef Bolognese

    <p> Few <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">comfort foods</a> are as satisfying as a hearty bowl of <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/best-ever-pasta-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">pasta</a> – but this specific recipe is the bee's knees. If you've got the time, let your homemade Bolognese sauce simmer in the slow cooker on high for three hours. You won't want your pasta without this sauce going forward — trust us. You can also try these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/easy-stuffed-pasta-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">easy stuffed pasta recipes that start with store-bought noodles</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/blog/5-ingredient-slow-cooker-dinner-ideas-slow-cooker-beef-bolognese/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Beef Bolognese</a></strong> </p>
  • Restaurant-Worthy Chinese Scallion Pancakes
     
    9 of 20

    Restaurant-Worthy Chinese Scallion Pancakes

    <p> We’re all spending more time indoors (and in the kitchen) these days, so it would come as no surprise if you’ve developed a serious hankering for restaurant cuisine. Instead, try your hand at these crispy, flaky Chinese scallion pancakes with a homemade dipping sauce for an extra kick. It'll make the absence of <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/dining-out/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">dining out</a> opportunities that much easier to bear. For more ideas, try these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/chinese-takeout-recipes-to-make-at-home/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">tasty Chinese takeout dishes you can master at home</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/blog/chinese-scallion-pancakes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Restaurant-Worthy Chinese Scallion Pancakes</a></strong> </p>
  • Baked Salmon With Spicy Mango Avocado Salsa
     
    10 of 20

    Baked Salmon With Spicy Mango Avocado Salsa

    <p> Baked salmon is a healthy dinner classic, but the star of this recipe is the homemade spicy mango-<a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/brilliant-avocado-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">avocado</a> salsa. It's a versatile addition to any future dishes you might make (think: chicken, curry, cabbage slaw, shrimp). Hot tip: you don't need fresh mangoes either (we know chopping them can be a hassle). We tried this recipe with the frozen variety and they worked quite well. *chefs kiss* Find more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/bbq/photos/easy-grilled-salmon-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">grilled salmon recipes</a> you'll want to make again and again. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/blog/baked-salmon-mango-avocado-salsa/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Baked Salmon With Spicy Mango Avocado Salsa</a></strong> </p>
  • Vegan Pumpkin Soup
     
    11 of 20

    Vegan Pumpkin Soup

    <p> Whether you're feeling under the weather or are in tip-top shape, this pumpkin-forward <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/vegan-soups-and-stews/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">vegan soup</a> is as delicious as it is immune-boosting. The secret ingredient? Turmeric. Yes, that golden spice has been celebrated for regulating the immune system. So dig in! Find more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/top-10-foods-to-boost-your-immune-system/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">surprising foods that boost the immune system</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/thanksgiving/blog/vegan-pumpkin-soup-immune-boosting/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Vegan Pumpkin Soup</a></strong> </p>
  • 20-Minute Tuscan White Bean Skillet Dinner
     
    12 of 20

    20-Minute Tuscan White Bean Skillet Dinner

    <p> Don't let the quick cook time fool you: all those marinated veggies provide a substantial and nutritious meal you'll want to make on repeat. Tuscan kale, sundried tomatoes, artichokes and cannellini beans are only a handful of the healthy and budget-friendly ingredients you'll need for this one-pot wonder. While you're at it, bookmark these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/30-minute-winter-weeknight-dinners/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">30-minute weeknight dinners you'll fall in love with this winter</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/blog/20-minute-white-bean-skillet/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">20-Minute Tuscan White Bean Skillet Dinner</a></strong> </p>
  • Ethiopian Vegan Potato Stew
     
    13 of 20

    Ethiopian Vegan Potato Stew

    <p> Comfort food with a capital C, this healthy potato-forward stew is infused with onions and spices for the perfect soothing winter meal. It's also highly versatile: swap out the potatoes in favour of <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/in-season/photos/pumpkin-recipes-beyond-dessert/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">pumpkin</a>, <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/superfood-spotlight-best-sweet-potato-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">sweet potatoes</a> or <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/kitchen-basics/photos/things-you-didnt-know-you-could-pickle/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">okra</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/blog/healthy-ethiopian-vegan-potato-stew/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ethiopian Vegan Potato Stew</a></strong> </p>
  • Vegetarian Mujadara
     
    14 of 20

    Vegetarian Mujadara

    <p> Mujadara is a simple, flavourful Middle Eastern dish of <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/lentil-recipes-we-love/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">lentils</a>, rice, spices and fried onions that dates back to the 13th century. Serve it with a side of plain Greek yogurt or labneh, lemon wedges, parsley and a chopped salad of tomato and cucumber. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/blog/vegetarian-mujadara-recipe/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Vegetarian Mujadara</a></strong> </p>
  • Chinese Stir-Fried Eggplant
     
    15 of 20

    Chinese Stir-Fried Eggplant

    <p> Whether you're looking for a quick and easy dinner recipe or hearty side dish, look no further than this easy-to-prep takeout-inspired dish. Bonus: we've also unlocked the mystery to cooking <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/easy-eggplant-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">eggplant</a>. It involves a soaking and salting technique that also helps balance out the flavour. You can thank us later. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/easy-chinese-stir-fried-eggplant/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Chinese Stir-Fried Eggplant</a></strong> </p>
  • Baked Brie With Nuts and Dried Fruit
     
    16 of 20

    Baked Brie With Nuts and Dried Fruit

    <p> Finger foods often make for the best main courses. Instead of sweating it out in the kitchen, consider customizing your own baked brie platter with an assortment of nuts, dried fruits, crackers and sauces. Dinner has never been so easy – or fun! Find more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/fondue-queso-cheesy-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">gooey, melty ways to get your cheese fix</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/entertaining/blog/baked-brie-nuts-dried-fruit/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Baked Brie With Nuts and Dried Fruit</a></strong> </p>
  • Sausage, Apple and Sage-Stuffed Acorn Squash
     
    17 of 20

    Sausage, Apple and Sage-Stuffed Acorn Squash

    <p> This fall-inspired recipe is as cozy as it gets and boasts plenty of seasonal must-haves: acorn squash, sweet apples and a spicy sausage filling. It's out-of-this-world delicious and will make your kitchen smell divine. For more, check out our <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/in-season/photos/the-ultimate-squash-guide-varieties-and-their-best-uses/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ultimate squash guide for all the varieties and best uses</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/thanksgiving/blog/sausage-apple-sage-stuffed-acorn-squash/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sausage, Apple and Sage-Stuffed Acorn Squash</a></strong> </p>
  • Curried Brussels Sprouts
     
    18 of 20

    Curried Brussels Sprouts

    <p> Brussels sprouts got a lot of love in the kitchen this year — and this simple side dish is the perfect example of why. Their small size and nutty taste make them ideal for roasting on chilly winter nights. The secret to those crispy, caramelized edges? Roast them cut side down at a high temperature. And don’t even think about removing the small leaves that fall off – those become so crunchy and make the best <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/in-season/photos/best-brussels-sprouts-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Brussels sprouts</a> chips. You're welcome! </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/blog/curried-brussels-sprouts-side-dish/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Curried Brussels Sprouts</a></strong> </p>
  • Fried Egg With Black Beans and Toast, Plus 5 More Black Bean Recipes
     
    19 of 20

    Fried Egg With Black Beans and Toast, Plus 5 More Black Bean Recipes

    <p> A single can of black beans can offer a myriad of dinner ideas, making meal-planning more budget-friendly and sanity-saving on those busy weeknights. We particularly love this fried eggs with black beans on toast gem. It requires few ingredients, but it's high on flavour. Find more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/best-recipes-with-beans/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">recipes that will make you rethink canned beans</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/blog/one-can-of-black-beans-six-different-meals/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Fried Egg With Black Beans and Toast, Plus 5 More Black Bean Recipes</a></strong></p>
  • 30-Minute Low-Carb Mint Lamb Burgers
     
    20 of 20

    30-Minute Low-Carb Mint Lamb Burgers

    <p> Who doesn't love a good burger? These juicy, grilled, zesty mint lamb versions will have your mouth watering before they even hit your plate. Added bonus: they can be made in 30 minutes! We love a speedy dish. You can also bookmark our favourite <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/pressure-cooked-instant-pot-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Instant Pot recipes for quick and easy dinners</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/bbq/blog/30-minute-low-carb-zesty-mint-lamb-burgers-bbq-recipe/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">30-Minute Low-Carb Mint Lamb Burgers</a></strong> </p>
  • Start Over
    Next Gallery

You Might Also Like

Chefs & Hosts

All Shows