35 Quick and Easy Meals for One (for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
Cooking for one can be hard — sometimes all you want to do is curl up on the couch and eat a bowl of cereal for dinner or order takeout (no judgement here!). But if you're looking to cook yourself something delicious, we've got you covered. From simple breakfast recipes to quick lunches to easy dinner ideas, we've got 40 quick and easy meals for one — for all three meals of the day.
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BREAKFAST: Egg in a Hole
<p>This simple, yet oh-so satisfying dish is the ultimate of easy <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/make-ahead-breakfast-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">breakfast ideas</a>: it consists of two sliced of bread with the centres cut out, then filled with eggs and cooked until both sides are nice and golden. Finish with a sprinkle of feta, red chilis and dill.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/blog/how-to-make-the-perfect-egg-in-a-hole/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Egg in a Hole</strong></a></p> -
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Baked Eggs in Hashbrown Cups
<p>Have potatoes and eggs? Then you’ve got all the ingredients you need to make some impressive muffin-tin breakfast bites.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/baked-eggs-in-hash-brown-cups/19597/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman’s Baked Eggs in Hashbrown Cups</a></strong></p> -
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Smoky Chickpeas on Grilled Toast With Poached Eggs and Za'atar
<p> A protein double-header with chickpeas and eggs, this weeknight-friendly main will spice up your dinner rut with the bold taste of za'atar, a <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/healthy-middle-eastern-recipes/#!Healthy-Middle-Eastern-Style-Chicken-Veggies-and-Rice" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Middle Eastern</a> spice blend. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/smoky-chickpeas-on-grilled-toast-with-poached-eggs-and-zahtar/15269/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Smoky Chickpeas on Grilled Toast With Poached Eggs and Za'atar</a></strong> </p> -
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Gluten-Free Pancakes With Berry Compote
<p>Gluten-free, but love <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/pancake-recipes-shrove-tuesday/#!chocolate_chocolate_say_it_twice_pancakes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">pancakes</a>? This recipe uses quinoa flour, but doesn't skimp on the fluffy texture we all know and love about this breakfast staple.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/gluten-free-pancakes-with-berry-compote/13650/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Anna Olson's Gluten-Free Pancakes With Berry Compote</strong></a></p> -
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Green Onion Parmesan Crepes With Ricotta, Spinach and Bacon
<p>An incredibly flavourful and delicious green onion and Parmesan crepe stuffed with ricotta cheese, spinach, bacon and mushrooms. Count us in!</p> <p>Get this recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/blog/green-onion-parmesan-crepes-with-ricotta-spinach-and-bacon/35639/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Green Onion Parmesan Crêpes With Ricotta, Spinach and Bacon</strong></a></p> -
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Apple Pie Oatmeal
<p>Instead of cooking apples on their own, add some <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/photos/anna-olson-best-apple-dessert-recipes/#!Caramel-Apple-Jalousie" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">apple pie</a> spice along with some brown sugar for a delicious, apple pie-esque topping for your morning oatmeal.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/apple-pie-oatmeal/14929/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Apple Pie Oatmeal</strong></a></p> -
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Frothy Chilly Fruit Smoothie
<p>Low-fat yogurt and banana lend this <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/healthy-tasty-smoothie-recipes/#!smoothies-cherry-almond" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">smoothie</a> its creaminess, while frozen peaches and strawberries help you pack in your fruit serving quota.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/frothy-chilly-fruit-smoothies/16476/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Rachael Ray's Frothy Chilly Fruit Smoothie</strong></a></p> -
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Asparagus, Canadian Bacon and Cheese Frittata
<p>Try something new for breakfast or <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/valerie-bertinelli-brunch-recipes/#!Cherry-Coconut-Scuffins" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">brunch</a> with this easy egg, Parmesan, Canadian bacon and asparagus frittata, brightened up with touch of lemon zest.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/asparagus-canadian-bacon-and-cheese-frittata/18193/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Asparagus, Canadian Bacon and Cheese Frittata</strong></a></p> -
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Teff Breakfast Bowl
<p>Teff, an ancient Ethiopian grain rich in protein, iron and fibre (and naturally gluten-free), is the star of this flavourful breakfast bowl. Topped with pears, pecans, almond butter and maple syrup, it's a unique oatmeal alternative you can feel good about eating.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/healthy-ethiopian-breakfast-bowl/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Teff Breakfast Bowl</a></strong></p> -
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Quinoa Berry Bowl
<p>Ditch the boxed cereal and indulge in this wholesome breakfast bowl with hearty quinoa, juicy strawberries, pumpkin and chia seeds, cinnamon and <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/photos/sweet-ways-canadians-eat-maple-syrup/#!nut-maple-wafflewich" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">maple syrup</a>.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/quinoa-berry-bowl/15313/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Quinoa Berry Bowl</strong></a></p> -
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Soufleed Spinach Omelette
<p>Whether fresh or frozen, spinach is hidden under loads of cheese in this fluffy omelette, so it will inevitably taste just as delicious.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a target="_blank" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/soufleed-spinach-omelette/10271/" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Soufleed Spinach Omelette</strong></a></p> -
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LUNCH: Vegan Grilled Cheese and Beef Sandwich
<p>If you ever enjoyed grilled cheese stuffed with some type of meat, this flavourful vegan version is sure to satisfy.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/blog/vegan-grilled-cheese-beef-sandwich-with-sriracha-ketchup-34870/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Vegan Grilled Cheese and Beef Sandwich</a> </strong></p> -
13 of 35
Chicken and Wild Rice Salad Pitas
<p>Turn leftovers into lunch with these portable chicken pitas. Chewy wild rice and sweet grapes add interest, while cubes of <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/bbq/photos/leftover-bbq-chicken-recipes/#!thai-lettuce-cups-with-chicken1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">leftover grilled chicken</a> provide substance.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-and-wild-rice-salad-pitas/16756/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Chicken and Wild Rice Salad Pitas</a></strong></p> -
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Egg and Potato Salad Pita
<p>When your child is tired of the boring old sandwich bread, switch it up by rolling up some egg and potato salad in a hearty wrap. Here are some <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/back-to-school/photos/easy-after-school-snacks/#!Ham-Apple-and-Cheese-Quesadilla" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">after-school snacks your kiddos will love</a>.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/egg-and-potato-salad-pita/16759/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Egg and Potato Salad Pita</a></strong></p> -
15 of 35
Chicken Taco Salad
<p>This hearty salad by Ree Drummond is so simple to throw together. With plenty of avocado, cheese, corn and tomato, you'll get your fill of healthy ingredients to last you to your next big meal. Here are more dinner ideas from <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/in-season/photos/pioneer-woman-best-summer-dinner-recipes/#!pioneer-woman-chicken-sheet-pan" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ree Drummond</a>.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-taco-salad/15509/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Chicken Taco Salad</strong></a></p> -
16 of 35
Homemade Pizza
<p>Customize these petite <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/pizza-recipes-everyday/#!pizza-dough-recipe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">homemade pizzas</a> with whichever toppings you love most, from vegetarian to meat lovers to everything in between. They're almost too cute to eat, but we'll devour them anyways.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/valeries-homemade-pizza/17028/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Valerie Bertinelli’s Homemade Pizza</strong></a></p> -
17 of 35
French Toast-wiches With Quick-Cook Warm Chutney
<p>This savoury brunch dish features French toast encasing loads of melted cheese and smoked turkey. Here are our <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/carbiest-breakfast-recipes/#!pride-strawberry-rhubarb-cheesecake-pockets1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">carbiest recipes</a>.</p> <p>Get this recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/french-toast-wiches-with-quick-cook-warm-chutney/16057/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Rachael Ray's French Toast-wiches With Quick-Cook Warm Chutney</strong></a></p> -
18 of 35
Quesadillas With Shrimp and Peppers
<p>These spicy quesadillas are filled with juicy shrimp, sautéed onions and bell peppers and loaded with melted Monterey Jack cheese. Can't get enough of those soft tortillas loaded with fillings? Find your new favourite flavour combination in these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/quick-easy-quesadilla-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">easy quesadilla recipes that'll make anyone feel like a chef</a>.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/quesadillas-with-shrimp-and-peppers/15570/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Quesadillas With Shrimp and Peppers</strong></a></p> -
19 of 35
Chicken Salad
<p>This creamy chicken salad recipe can be served in a variety of ways, such as on a bed of lettuce, in half an avocado or on your favourite toasted bread. These <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/work-from-home-lunch-ideas/#!work-lunch-soba-bowl-garlic-shrimp1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">work-from-home lunch ideas are better than takeout</a>.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-salad/18031/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Chicken Salad</strong></a></p> -
20 of 35
Loaded Nacho Grilled Cheese
<p>Everything we love about cheese-covered, zesty nachos can now be enjoyed in a multi-layered sandwich. It boasts everything from seasoned ground beef and spicy salsa to avocado, black beans, jalapeno peppers and crunched-up Doritos, all covered in plenty of <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/fondue-queso-cheesy-recipes/#!flank-steak-fontina-grilled-cheese" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ooey-gooey Tex-Mex cheese</a>.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/loaded-nacho-grilled-cheese/15257/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Loaded Nacho Grilled Cheese</strong></a></p> -
21 of 35
Chipotle Chicken Burritos
<p>Full of bright, Mexican flavours, these burritos will certainly hit the spot when you're craving something spicy. For added flavour, make your own fresh salsa.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chipotle-chicken-burritos/18026/" target="_blank"><strong>Chipotle Chicken Burritos<strong></a></p> -
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Vegetarian Nicoise Salad
<p>Hailing from Nice, France, the much-loved Mediterranean meal, salad Nicoise, gets a vegetarian makeover. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, it’s a vegetable and protein-packed entree that delivers on taste.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/vegetarian-nicoise-salad/13675/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Anna Olson's Vegetarian Nicoise Salad</strong></a></p> -
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DINNER: Almond Chicken Satay
<p>Served on a bed of vermicelli rice noodles, almond butter replaces peanut butter in this delicious take on a classic chicken satay. It is one of those easy dinner recipes you'll make again and again. Here are some ways to <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/back-to-school/photos/ramen-noodle-recipe-hacks/#!crispy-tangerine-chili-chikun-lettuce-wraps-recipe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">hack a pack of ramen noodles</a>.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/almond-chicken-satay/17996/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Almond Chicken Satay</strong></a></p> -
24 of 35
Ethiopian Vegan Potato Stew
<p>This hearty Ethiopian plant-based potato stew (AKA dinich wot) is incredibly hearty, spicy and super easy to make: it requires just eight ingredients and can be whipped up in just an hour. Serve with a side of rice, fonio or fresh bread.</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> -
25 of 35
Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Breasts With Tomato and Basil and Potatoes With Peppers and Onions
<p>This easy chicken recipe will be your new go-to. Ready in <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/healthy-dinners-30-minutes-or-less/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">under 30 minutes</a>, whip up a flavour-packed dish of Parmesan-crusted chicken topped with tomatoes and basil and served with crispy roasted potatoes, peppers and onions.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/parmesan-crusted-chicken-breasts-with-tomato-and-basil-and-potatoes-with-peppers-and-onions/18182/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Rachael Ray's Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Breasts With Tomato and Basil and Potatoes With Peppers and Onions</strong></a></p> -
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Zucchini Noodles With Coconut Curry Salmon
<p><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/guilt-free-delicious-zucchini-noodle-recipes/#!zucchini-noodle-pasta" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Zucchini noodles</a> are topped with salmon in a super easy, three-ingredient coconut curry sauce for a light and healthy meal that feels gourmet.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/zucchini-noodles-with-coconut-curry-salmon/18121/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Zucchini Noodles With Coconut Curry Salmon</strong></a></p> -
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Sauteed Chicken Breasts With Fresh Herbs and Ginger
<p>Chicken breasts are simply seasoned and sauteed, then topped with a flavourful sauce of chicken broth, ginger, basil and mint. Here are some <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/easy-make-ahead-dinner-casseroles/#!make_ahead_baked_ziti" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">make-ahead dinner casseroles to toss in your freezer for the long winter ahead</a>. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/sauteed-chicken-breasts-with-fresh-herbs-and-ginger/18200/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Sauteed Chicken Breasts With Fresh Herbs and Ginger</strong></a></p> -
28 of 35
Chicken and Quinoa Soup
<p>This <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/healthy-hearty-soup-recipes/#!vegetarian-beet-borscht" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">hearty soup</a> is loaded with carrots, celery, broccoli, shredded rotisserie chicken and a little Cajun seasoning for a lighter twist on classic chicken noodle.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-and-quinoa-soup/18029/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Chicken and Quinoa Soup<strong></a></p> -
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Linguine With Shrimp and Lemon Oil
<p>A light and bright shrimp-topped linguine gets added sunshine — and flavour — from its homemade lemon oil drizzle.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/linguine-with-shrimp-and-lemon-oil/15499/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Giada De Laurentiis' Linguine With Shrimp and Lemon Oil</a></strong></p> -
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Crunchy Noodle Salad
<p>Peanut butter is the not-so-secret ingredient in this delightful meal-in-a-bowl that pairs a rich and flavourful sauce with fresh, crunchy sugar snap peas, scallions and red bell pepper that's <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/top-12-foods-that-will-boost-your-vitamin-c-intake/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">packed with Vitamin C</a>.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/crunchy-noodle-salad/16826/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ina Garten's Crunchy Noodle Salad</a></strong></p> -
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Vegan Calzones
<p>Turn your living room into your personal diner booth by serving up savoury vegan calzones that boast a rich crust and comforting cheesy filling.<p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/homemade-vegan-calzones/22099/" target="_blank"><strong>Homemade Vegan Calzones</strong></a></p> -
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Cobb Salad With Blue Cheese Dressing
<p>A classic salad that won't disappoint! Set aside the dressing and it will play double-duty as dinner as well as tomorrow's lunch. Speaking of salad, here are some <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/meal-sized-salads/#!rainbow-quinoa-taco-salad-with-sunflower-dressing" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">healthy meal-sized ones that you'll actually crave</a>.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/cobb-salad-with-blue-cheese-dressing/15640/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Cobb Salad With Blue Cheese Dressing</strong></a></p> -
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Salmon in Parchment With Ginger, Soy and Enoki Mushrooms
<p>Salmon steamed in individual parchment parcels really enhances the aroma and flavour of this gorgeous dish.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/salmon-in-parchment-with-ginger-soy-and-enoki-mushrooms/12819/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Salmon in Parchment with Ginger, Soy and Enoki Mushrooms</a></strong></p> -
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Quick and Easy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
<p>Roasted red peppers, garlic and onions are pureed and turned into a creamy sauce in this flavourful pasta dish. Here are some <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/easy-stuffed-pasta-recipes/#!meat-lovers-pizza-stuffed-shells" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">easy stuffed pasta recipes that start with store-bought noodles</a>.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/quick-and-easy-roasted-red-pepper-pasta/15512/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Quick and Easy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta</strong></a></p> -
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Bow-Tie Skillet Alfredo
<p>Served as a main or delectable side, this classic combo of bow-tie pasta, creamy Alfredo and juicy chicken breast is as comforting as it gets. Here are some <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/easy-leftover-chicken-recipes/#!shortcut-chicken-enchiladas" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">leftover chicken recipes</a> you'll look forward to devouring. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/bow-tie-skillet-alfredo/16612/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Bow-Tie Skillet Alfredo</strong></a></p>