After a long day, the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen preparing dinner. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor or nutrition! With a little planning and some go-to recipes, you can whip up a satisfying meal in just 30 minutes. Here are some quick and easy dinner ideas that will help you get dinner on the table without all the stress.

1. One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Veggies

This one-pan dish is perfect for busy nights when you don’t want to spend too much time cleaning up. Start by seasoning chicken breasts with lemon zest, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. While the chicken marinates for about 10 minutes, chop up some vegetables—think broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers. Place everything on a baking sheet, drizzle with a little more olive oil, and roast at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the veggies are tender. This meal is simple, full of flavor, and requires minimal cleanup.

2. 15-Minute Shrimp Stir-Fry

Shrimp cooks quickly and is the perfect protein for a weeknight stir-fry. Start by sautéing garlic and ginger in a hot pan with a bit of oil. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes. Then, toss in your favorite vegetables—snap peas, bell peppers, and carrots work great. Add a splash of soy sauce and a drizzle of honey for a balance of savory and sweet flavors. Serve over cooked rice or noodles for a complete meal. This stir-fry is packed with protein and veggies and can be customized with whatever ingredients you have on hand.

3. Quick Beef and Veggie Tacos

Tacos are always a quick and fun dinner option. Start by browning some ground beef in a skillet, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once the beef is fully cooked, add taco seasoning (or a mix of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika) along with a splash of water. While the beef simmers, warm up your taco shells and prepare your toppings—shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and salsa. This recipe takes just 15-20 minutes to prepare and is perfect for a busy weeknight meal that everyone will love.

4. Pasta Primavera

Pasta is always a go-to dinner when you’re pressed for time. For a quick and healthy twist, make a pasta primavera with a variety of colorful veggies. Start by cooking your favorite pasta according to the package directions. While the pasta cooks, sauté zucchini, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and spinach in olive oil with garlic. Once the pasta is cooked, toss it with the veggies and a generous drizzle of olive oil or a splash of cream for a richer sauce. Add parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor. This dish is fresh, satisfying, and perfect for using up any leftover vegetables.

5. Sheet Pan Salmon with Asparagus and Potatoes

Sheet pan dinners are ideal for busy evenings because they require little hands-on time. For this meal, place salmon fillets on a baking sheet and season them with lemon, garlic, and your favorite herbs. Arrange sliced potatoes and asparagus around the salmon, drizzle everything with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast at 400°F for about 20 minutes, or until the salmon is flaky and the potatoes are tender. This meal is light, flavorful, and comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

6. Vegetarian Buddha Bowl

If you’re craving a lighter, plant-based meal, a Buddha bowl is an easy option that’s full of nutrients. Start by cooking quinoa or rice as your base. While the grains are cooking, sauté or roast your favorite veggies—think sweet potatoes, broccoli, and chickpeas. Add in some greens like spinach or arugula and top with a simple dressing made from olive oil, lemon, and tahini. For a protein boost, toss in some cooked tofu, tempeh, or a hard-boiled egg. This customizable bowl is nutritious, filling, and can be made in 30 minutes or less.

7. Caprese Chicken

Caprese chicken is an easy, flavorful dish that combines the classic Italian salad with tender chicken breasts. Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then pan-fry or grill the chicken until it’s cooked through. Top each chicken breast with fresh mozzarella, a few tomato slices, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Let the mozzarella melt slightly, then serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. This meal comes together quickly and is full of fresh, vibrant flavors.