One-Pan Roasted Chicken and Veggies
Weeknight dinners don’t get much easier than this. Toss chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks are forgiving and juicy) and your favorite chopped veggies (broccoli, carrots, potatoes, bell peppers – get creative!) with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any herbs you enjoy (rosemary and thyme are classic choices). Spread everything on a single baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender. It’s minimal cleanup, and everyone gets a complete, healthy meal. You can even prep the veggies ahead of time to make weeknight cooking even faster.
Sheet Pan Salmon with Asparagus
Salmon is packed with omega-3s, and it cooks incredibly quickly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for super easy cleanup. Place salmon fillets on the sheet, alongside asparagus spears. Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the asparagus is tender-crisp. This is a fantastic option for a lighter, healthier meal, perfect for a busy weeknight.
Lentil Soup
Soup is always a comforting and healthy choice, and lentil soup is surprisingly easy to make. Simply sauté onions, carrots, and celery in a pot. Add lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and your favorite spices (cumin, coriander, and turmeric are great choices). Simmer until the lentils are tender. This is a fantastic way to use up leftover veggies, and you can easily adjust the spices to your family’s preferences. It’s also a great make-ahead meal – it tastes even better the next day!
Quick Chicken Stir-Fry
Stir-fries are a fantastic way to get a lot of vegetables into a meal quickly. Cut chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and stir-fry with your favorite vegetables (broccoli, snap peas, carrots, mushrooms are all great choices). Use a light sauce made with soy sauce, honey, and a little ginger and garlic. Serve over brown rice or quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal. Pre-cut veggies from the grocery store can significantly reduce prep time.
Pasta with Turkey Meatballs and Marinara Sauce
This is a classic comfort food made healthier. Use ground turkey instead of beef to reduce the fat content. Make simple turkey meatballs by combining ground turkey with breadcrumbs, an egg, grated Parmesan cheese, and your favorite Italian seasonings. Bake or pan-fry the meatballs, then simmer them in your favorite marinara sauce. Serve over whole wheat pasta for added fiber. You can even prep the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them for a quick weeknight dinner.
Black Bean Burgers
A fun twist on the classic burger! Black bean burgers are packed with protein and fiber, and they’re surprisingly easy to make. Mash black beans with breadcrumbs, spices (cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder are great options), and a little chopped onion. Form the mixture into patties and cook them in a skillet or bake them in the oven. Serve on whole-wheat buns with your favorite toppings. These are a great option for a vegetarian or meatless Monday, and the kids will love them!
Breakfast for Dinner
Sometimes, the easiest and healthiest option is a simple twist on a familiar meal. Scrambled eggs with whole-wheat toast and avocado, or a hearty oatmeal with berries and nuts, are quick, nutritious, and satisfying. This is a great option for nights when everyone is tired and you need a quick and easy meal that feels comforting yet healthy. It’s also a fun way to switch things up and avoid dinner fatigue.
Taco Tuesday (Made Healthy!)
Taco Tuesday doesn’t have to be unhealthy. Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and load up on the veggies. Use whole-wheat tortillas or lettuce wraps for a lower-carb option. Top with salsa, avocado, and a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier twist on this family favorite. This is a fun and interactive meal, allowing everyone to customize their tacos to their liking. Click here about family meals healthy easy