Every evening around 5 o’clock I’d better have a plan. I really wish I could be more fly-by-the-seat-of-my-pants about this but If I’m not prepared with at least some sort of idea for dinner my sanity unravels faster than a roll of toilet paper in the hands of a toddler.
I would like to say that in a stroke of anal retentiveness I have a set time on Sunday morning when I plan all the week’s meals but the plan usually is formed as I’m making breakfast and taking stock of what’s in the fridge and freezer. I do however have a running list (made of paper) where I write (with a pen) ideas that pop into my head or jot down any particularly easy and delicious recipes I see online, because coming up with ideas off the top of my head at the last minute is not my forte.
Point being, we all need help in the easy dinner department, with that in mind here are 20 excellent options that take 30 minutes or less of hands on time; most of them healthy, kid-friendly, with ingredients that you can find at just about any grocery store. If you have any favorites you’ve tried and loved please leave a comment and let me know!
Pasta with Mint, Capers, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Chicken Tinga Tacos from What’s Gaby Cooking
Sausage Potato Bake from Handle the Heat
Warm Wild Rice Salad with Butternut Squash and Tahini Dressing
Five Spice Shrimp with Coconut Rice from A Spicy Perspective
Classic Spaghetti Alla Carbonara from Not Without Salt {via Craftsy}
Fish in Caper Lemon Sauce from Sweet Bites Blog
Simple Vegetable Egg Bake from Naturally Ella
Crispy Potato Tacos with Guajillo-Orange Salsa
Stovetop Goat Cheese Shells and Cheese from How Sweet Eats
Bell Pepper, Mushroom, and Tofu Scramble
Crispy Oven Fried Panko Chicken Thighs from I am a Food Blog
Lemon Broccoli Pasta from Love and Lemons
Coconut Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Rice Bowls from Love and Olive Oil
Need more ideas? Check out 30 Minute Meals for March and 4 Weeks of Family Dinners