15 Quick and Easy 5-Ingredient Meal Prep Ideas

Meal prepping doesn’t have to be a chore! With just five ingredients and a little creativity, you can whip up quick, tasty meals that save time and keep things simple. This guide gives you easy ideas to streamline your week, so you can focus on enjoying your food, not stressing over it.

Easy Baked Salmon

When you want a quick and healthy meal, baked salmon is a fantastic choice. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrients. The image shows a beautifully cooked salmon fillet, glistening with a touch of sauce and garnished with fresh herbs. Lemon slices add a bright pop of color, making it visually appealing and refreshing.

To make this easy baked salmon, you’ll need just a few ingredients. The salmon is seasoned to perfection, allowing the natural flavors to shine through. Pair it with some roasted vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (like dill or parsley) for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the fillets. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
5. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken

This One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken is a simple and delicious meal that brings together tender chicken and vibrant veggies. The bright flavors of lemon and garlic make every bite refreshing. Plus, it’s all cooked in one pan, which means less cleanup for you!

The chicken is seared to golden perfection, while the colorful vegetables add a nice crunch. You can use whatever veggies you have on hand, making it a flexible recipe. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, as it’s quick to whip up and packed with flavor.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and sear for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Pour the lemon juice and zest over the chicken. Add the mixed vegetables around the chicken in the pan.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Beef and Broccoli Skillet

This Beef and Broccoli Skillet is a quick and tasty meal that packs a punch with flavor. The vibrant green broccoli contrasts beautifully with the tender beef, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is simple to whip up and requires just a few ingredients.

Start by cooking your beef until it’s browned and tender. Then, toss in fresh broccoli and let it cook until bright green and crisp-tender. The magic happens when you add a savory sauce that brings everything together. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef sirloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the broccoli and cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green.
5. In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch with a little water. Pour this sauce over the beef and broccoli.
6. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

Spicy Shrimp Tacos

These spicy shrimp tacos are a quick and tasty option for meal prep. With just five ingredients, you can whip them up in no time. The shrimp are perfectly seasoned, giving them a delightful kick that pairs wonderfully with fresh toppings.

Start by cooking the shrimp until they turn a beautiful orange color. Then, load them into soft tortillas. Top with cilantro and a squeeze of lime for that extra zing. You can also add some cheese or avocado if you like!

These tacos are not just easy to make; they’re also great for lunch or dinner. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing with friends or family. Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• 8 small tortillas
• Cilantro and lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add shrimp and taco seasoning, cooking until shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Warm the tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
4. Assemble tacos by placing shrimp in tortillas and topping with cilantro.
5. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is a quick and tasty option for meal prep. It’s colorful and packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for lunch or dinner. The combination of quinoa, cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese creates a delightful mix of flavors.

To make this salad, start by cooking the quinoa according to package instructions. Once it’s fluffy and cooled, mix in halved cherry tomatoes, black olives, and diced feta cheese. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a nice touch. Finally, drizzle with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice for that extra zing.

This salad is not only easy to prepare but also keeps well in the fridge. It’s a great option for those busy days when you need something healthy and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a pot, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, cherry tomatoes, black olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. Add Dressing: Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad. Toss gently to combine.
4. Serve or Store: Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is a quick and satisfying dish that brings together fresh ingredients in a delightful way. The vibrant red tomatoes and bright green basil create a beautiful contrast, making it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. This meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet simple.

The pasta is coated in a rich, creamy sauce that enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. Fresh basil adds a fragrant touch, making each bite a burst of flavor. You can whip this up in no time, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. Just cook a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week!

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta of your choice
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In the same pot, add the cherry tomatoes and cook over medium heat until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Stir in the fresh basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Dish out the pasta and garnish with extra basil and Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your creamy tomato basil pasta!

Chickpea Salad Bowl

This Chickpea Salad Bowl is a perfect example of a quick and easy meal prep option. It’s colorful, nutritious, and packed with flavor. The combination of chickpeas and fresh veggies makes it a satisfying dish that you can whip up in no time.

The salad features hearty chickpeas, which are a great source of protein and fiber. Toss in some vibrant bell peppers, red onion, and fresh herbs for a burst of freshness. The bright colors not only make it visually appealing but also add a range of nutrients to your meal.

To make this salad, simply rinse and drain your chickpeas, chop your veggies, and mix everything in a bowl. You can dress it with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for a simple yet delicious flavor. This salad is great for meal prep as it holds up well in the fridge for a few days.

Enjoy it on its own, or serve it over a bed of greens or with pita bread for a more filling meal. It’s a versatile dish that you can customize with your favorite ingredients!

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, diced bell peppers, chopped onion, and herbs.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Quick Veggie Stir-Fry

Stir-fries are a fantastic way to whip up a meal in no time. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a colorful and tasty dish that’s perfect for meal prep. This quick veggie stir-fry is not only easy to make, but it’s also packed with nutrients. You can use whatever veggies you have on hand, making it a flexible option for any weeknight dinner.

The vibrant colors of bell peppers, broccoli, and other fresh vegetables make this dish visually appealing. The combination of textures and flavors will keep your taste buds happy. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in those greens!

Here’s how to make this quick veggie stir-fry:

Ingredients

• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup snap peas
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Throw in the broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender-crisp.
4. Pour in the soy sauce and toss everything together for another minute.
5. Remove from heat and serve warm. Enjoy your quick and healthy meal!

Pesto Zucchini Noodles

Pesto zucchini noodles are a quick and tasty option for meal prep. They are light, fresh, and packed with flavor. The vibrant green of the zucchini contrasts beautifully with the rich green of the pesto, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach.

To make this dish, start by spiralizing your zucchini into noodles. This gives you that fun pasta-like texture without the carbs. Toss the noodles with a generous amount of pesto, which adds a burst of flavor. Cherry tomatoes add a pop of color and sweetness, while pine nuts provide a satisfying crunch.

This meal is not only easy to prepare but also healthy. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner, and you can whip it up in no time. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in more veggies!

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis
• 1 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the zucchini noodles with the pesto. Toss until well coated.
3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and gently mix.
4. Serve the noodles in bowls, topped with toasted pine nuts and fresh basil leaves.
5. Enjoy your delicious and healthy pesto zucchini noodles!

Savory Egg Muffins

These savory egg muffins are a fantastic meal prep option. They are easy to make and packed with flavor. Perfect for busy mornings, you can whip them up in no time. Just look at those golden tops and colorful veggies peeking through! They are not only delicious but also visually appealing.

To make these muffins, you’ll need just a few ingredients. Eggs form the base, and you can add any veggies you like. Bell peppers, spinach, and onions work great. You can even throw in some cheese or cooked bacon for extra flavor. The best part? You can customize them to your taste!

These muffins are baked in a muffin tin, making them easy to portion out. Once they’re done, you can store them in the fridge for quick breakfasts throughout the week. Just pop one in the microwave, and you’re ready to go!

Ingredients

• 6 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup diced bell peppers
• 1/2 cup chopped spinach
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin tin.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
3. Add the diced bell peppers, chopped spinach, cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly distributed.
4. Pour the egg mixture into the muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the muffins are set and lightly golden on top.
6. Let them cool for a few minutes before removing them from the tin. Enjoy warm or store in the fridge for later!

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are a colorful and tasty meal that’s easy to whip up. These vibrant veggies are not just pretty; they are packed with flavor and nutrients. The combination of rice, beans, and spices makes for a filling dish that everyone will love.

To make these stuffed peppers, you can use any color of bell pepper you like. The filling is simple and can be customized to your taste. You can add ground meat, cheese, or even more veggies if you want. The best part? They’re perfect for meal prep!

Once you prepare them, you can store them in the fridge or freezer for quick meals throughout the week. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat, and you have a delicious meal in no time.

Ingredients

• 4 bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
• 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them upright in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix the cooked rice, black beans, corn, and taco seasoning. If you want, stir in half of the cheese.
4. Stuff the mixture into each bell pepper, packing it in well.
5. Top with the remaining cheese if desired.
6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
7. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffed bell peppers!

Simple Chicken Fajitas

Chicken fajitas are a quick and tasty meal that anyone can whip up. The vibrant colors of bell peppers and juicy chicken pieces make this dish not only delicious but also visually appealing. You can easily prepare this meal in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Start by marinating your chicken in a mix of spices and lime juice for a burst of flavor. Sauté the chicken with sliced bell peppers until everything is cooked through and tender. Serve it all in warm tortillas, and you have a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, sliced
• 2 bell peppers (any colors), sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortillas for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine sliced chicken, fajita seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.
2. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
4. Add the Veggies: Toss in the sliced bell peppers and onion. Sauté for another 5 minutes until the veggies are tender.
5. Serve: Warm the tortillas and fill them with the chicken and veggie mixture. Enjoy your delicious chicken fajitas!

Vegetable Fried Rice

Vegetable fried rice is a quick and easy dish that packs a punch of flavor and nutrition. It’s perfect for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in no time. The vibrant colors of the carrots and peas make it visually appealing, while the fluffy rice serves as a hearty base. Topped with a perfectly cooked egg, this dish is not just satisfying but also looks great on your plate.

Using just five ingredients, you can create a meal that’s both tasty and filling. The beauty of vegetable fried rice is its versatility; you can easily swap in your favorite veggies or add some protein if you like. This dish is a fantastic way to use up leftover rice and veggies, making it a smart choice for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 eggs

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the mixed vegetables and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender.
3. Push the veggies to one side of the skillet and crack the eggs into the other side. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, mixing everything together. Pour in the soy sauce and stir well to combine.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is heated through. Serve hot and enjoy!

Honey Garlic Glazed Carrots

These honey garlic glazed carrots are a quick and tasty side dish that adds a pop of color and flavor to any meal. The shiny, caramelized surface of the carrots, enhanced by the sweetness of honey and the savory touch of garlic, makes them irresistible. Plus, they’re super easy to prepare!

Start by washing and peeling your carrots. Cut them into even pieces to ensure they cook uniformly. In a skillet, melt some butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then stir in honey and a splash of water. Toss in the carrots and let them simmer until tender and glazed. The result is a beautiful dish that not only looks great but tastes amazing!

These glazed carrots are perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch and store them in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners. Just reheat and enjoy. They pair well with chicken, fish, or even on their own as a healthy snack!

Ingredients

• 1 pound baby carrots
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup water
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Carrots: Wash and peel the baby carrots. If they are larger, cut them into halves or quarters for even cooking.
2. Sauté Garlic: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add Honey and Water: Stir in the honey and water, mixing well to combine.
4. Cook Carrots: Add the carrots to the skillet. Cover and let them simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and glazed.
5. Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Coconut Curry Lentils

Coconut curry lentils are a fantastic option for meal prep. They are quick to make and packed with flavor. The creamy coconut milk blends beautifully with the spices, creating a comforting dish. You can enjoy them on their own or serve them over rice for a complete meal.

This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. Lentils are a great source of protein and fiber, making them a perfect choice for a healthy diet. Plus, the vibrant colors of the curry make it visually appealing!

To make coconut curry lentils, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. Gather lentils, coconut milk, curry powder, garlic, and vegetable broth. The cooking process is straightforward, allowing you to whip this up in no time.

Ingredients

• 1 cup lentils (any variety)
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups vegetable broth

Instructions

1. Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside.
2. In a pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute.
3. Stir in the curry powder and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Stir in the coconut milk and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, over rice if desired, and enjoy!