15 Quick and Easy 5-Ingredient Meals to Simplify Your Cooking

Ready to whip up something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen? These quick 5-ingredient meals are designed to keep things simple and delicious. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a satisfying dish on the table in no time, perfect for busy days or when you’re just not feeling like cooking a whole feast!

Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze

Caprese salad is a classic dish that showcases fresh ingredients. The vibrant colors of ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and bright green basil make it not just tasty but visually appealing too. Drizzled with balsamic glaze, this salad is a delightful treat that’s quick to prepare.

This dish is perfect for warm days or as a light appetizer. It’s refreshing and packed with flavor, making it a favorite among many. Plus, it only requires five simple ingredients!

Ingredients

• 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves
• Balsamic glaze
• Olive oil

Instructions

1. Arrange the tomato slices on a plate.
2. Layer the mozzarella slices on top of the tomatoes.
3. Add fresh basil leaves between the layers.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, if desired.

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

This creamy tomato basil pasta is a quick and satisfying meal that anyone can whip up. The vibrant colors of the dish, with juicy cherry tomatoes and fresh basil, make it as appealing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. The creamy sauce clings perfectly to the pasta, creating a comforting dish that feels indulgent yet is simple to prepare.

With just five ingredients, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in no time. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something tasty without a lot of fuss. Grab your favorite pasta, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or your choice of pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In the same pot, add the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
3. Add the Tomatoes: Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly.
4. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated.
5. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your creamy tomato basil pasta!

Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon

This Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon is a delightful dish that’s both simple and satisfying. The salmon is perfectly cooked, glistening with a sweet and tangy glaze that makes it irresistible. Fresh lemon slices add a bright touch, while herbs bring a hint of freshness. It’s a meal that looks elegant but is easy to whip up on a busy weeknight.

The combination of honey and mustard creates a wonderful balance of flavors. The sweetness of the honey complements the savory notes of the salmon, making each bite a treat. Serve it alongside your favorite veggies or a light salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon slices for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil until well combined.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the honey mustard mixture over the salmon fillets generously.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
6. Garnish with lemon slices and serve warm.

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Cabbage Slaw

Spicy shrimp tacos are a quick and tasty meal that packs a punch. These tacos are loaded with juicy shrimp, vibrant cabbage slaw, and a squeeze of fresh lime. The combination of flavors makes every bite exciting. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, making them perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.

The shrimp are seasoned with spices that give them a nice kick, while the cabbage slaw adds a refreshing crunch. You can customize the toppings to your liking, whether you want extra cilantro or a dash of hot sauce. These tacos are not just delicious; they’re also colorful and fun to eat!

Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make these spicy shrimp tacos with cabbage slaw:

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 8 small corn tortillas
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, mix shrimp with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Make sure they are evenly coated.
2. Cook the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and cooked through.
3. Prepare the Slaw: In another bowl, combine shredded cabbage and lime juice. Toss to coat the cabbage evenly.
4. Warm the Tortillas: Heat the corn tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until warm and pliable.
5. Assemble the Tacos: Place a few shrimp on each tortilla, top with cabbage slaw, and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your spicy shrimp tacos with a squeeze of lime for that extra zing!

Vegetable Quesadillas with Avocado

Vegetable quesadillas are a quick and tasty meal that anyone can whip up. This dish features crispy tortillas filled with colorful veggies, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing. The golden-brown quesadillas are perfectly complemented by creamy avocado slices, adding a rich texture and flavor.

These quesadillas are versatile. You can use whatever vegetables you have on hand, like bell peppers, spinach, or onions. The combination of melted cheese and fresh ingredients creates a satisfying meal in just a few minutes.

Perfect for lunch or dinner, these quesadillas are easy to prepare and can be served with salsa or sour cream for dipping. They’re a hit with both kids and adults!

Ingredients

• 4 flour tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, spinach, onions)
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• Olive oil for cooking

Instructions

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil.
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on one half of the tortilla.
3. Add the mixed vegetables on top of the cheese, then sprinkle the remaining cheese over the vegetables.
4. Fold the tortilla in half and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
5. Remove from the skillet and let it cool for a minute. Cut into wedges and serve with avocado slices on the side.

Pesto Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes

Pesto Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes is a simple and tasty meal that comes together quickly. This dish features juicy chicken breast topped with vibrant green pesto and sweet cherry tomatoes. The colors alone make it a feast for the eyes!

The combination of fresh basil in the pesto and the burst of flavor from the cherry tomatoes creates a delightful experience. You can serve it over rice, pasta, or even enjoy it on its own. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Let’s get to the recipe!

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup pesto
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish. Spread pesto over the top of each breast and scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around them.
5. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the tomatoes are soft.
6. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious meal!

Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

This Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a quick and tasty meal that brings together tender beef, vibrant broccoli, and colorful carrots. The steam rising from the pan shows just how fresh and delicious this dish is. With just five ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying dinner in no time.

The combination of beef and broccoli is a classic for a reason. It’s not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients. The bright green broccoli adds a nice crunch, while the beef provides protein to keep you full. Plus, the colorful carrots bring a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.

To make this dish, you’ll need some simple ingredients: beef, broccoli, carrots, soy sauce, and garlic. It’s all about quick cooking, so having everything prepped and ready to go will make the process smooth and easy. Just toss everything in a hot pan, and you’ll have a delicious meal in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef, sliced thinly
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

1. Heat a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the broccoli and carrots, stirring well to combine.
5. Pour in the soy sauce and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles, if desired.

One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Asparagus

This One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Asparagus is a quick and tasty meal that brings together juicy chicken and vibrant asparagus. The bright flavors of lemon and garlic make this dish refreshing and satisfying. Plus, it’s all cooked in one pan, which means less cleanup for you!

To make this dish, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. The chicken breasts are seasoned and seared until golden brown. Then, fresh asparagus is added to the pan, along with slices of lemon for that zesty kick. Everything cooks together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

This meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it with rice or a light salad for a complete dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add asparagus and lemon slices to the pan. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until asparagus is tender.
5. Serve hot and enjoy your quick, delicious meal!

Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice

Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice is a quick and satisfying meal that packs a punch of flavor. The image shows plump, juicy shrimp resting on a bed of fluffy rice, garnished with fresh parsley. The vibrant colors of the shrimp contrast beautifully with the white rice, making it not just delicious but also visually appealing.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. With just five ingredients, you can whip up a meal that feels special. The garlic butter adds a rich, savory touch that elevates the shrimp, while the rice serves as a perfect base to soak up all that flavor.

Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make this delightful dish:

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cooked rice
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
3. While the shrimp are cooking, prepare the rice according to package instructions if not already cooked.
4. Once the shrimp are done, remove them from the heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the shrimp over the cooked rice and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Chickpea Salad with Feta and Olives

This Chickpea Salad with Feta and Olives is a colorful and tasty dish that’s perfect for a quick meal. The bright yellow chickpeas mix beautifully with the creamy feta and the rich olives. Fresh tomatoes add a pop of color, while herbs like parsley and mint bring a refreshing touch.

Making this salad is super easy and requires just a few ingredients. It’s not only delicious but also packed with protein and healthy fats. Whether you serve it as a side or a main dish, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Let’s get to the recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup feta cheese, cubed
• 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, black olives, parsley, and mint.
2. Add Dressing: Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Toss: Gently toss everything together until well combined.
4. Chill: Let the salad sit in the fridge for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve: Enjoy your delicious chickpea salad as a refreshing meal or side dish!

Mushroom Risotto with Parmesan

Mushroom risotto is a creamy and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe is simple, using just five ingredients, making it a great choice for busy weeknights. The combination of mushrooms and Parmesan cheese creates a rich flavor that’s hard to resist.

The image shows a beautifully plated bowl of mushroom risotto, topped with sautéed mushrooms and a sprinkle of Parmesan. The creamy texture of the risotto pairs perfectly with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms, creating a delightful meal that looks as good as it tastes.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Heat the broth in a saucepan and keep it warm over low heat.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are golden brown.
3. Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and stir for about 2 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted.
4. Pour in a ladle of warm broth and stir continuously until the liquid is absorbed. Repeat this process, adding broth one ladle at a time, until the rice is creamy and cooked through, about 18-20 minutes.
5. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix well. Serve hot, garnished with extra mushrooms if desired.

Egg Fried Rice with Peas and Carrots

Egg Fried Rice with Peas and Carrots is a colorful and tasty dish that’s quick to make. The vibrant green peas and bright orange carrots add a nice pop to the fluffy rice. This meal is not only easy to prepare but also filling and satisfying.

To make this dish, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. The combination of eggs, rice, peas, and carrots creates a delightful flavor that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover rice!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Scramble the eggs in the pan until fully cooked, then remove and set aside.
3. Add the diced carrots to the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they soften.
4. Stir in the peas and cooked rice, mixing well.
5. Add the scrambled eggs back to the pan and pour in the soy sauce. Stir everything together until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot.

Sausage and Peppers Skillet

The Sausage and Peppers Skillet is a colorful and hearty dish that brings together the savory goodness of sausages and the vibrant crunch of bell peppers. This meal is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

In the image, you can see juicy sausages sizzling alongside a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers. The bright colors make the dish visually appealing, and the aroma wafting from the skillet is sure to make your mouth water. It’s a one-pan wonder that minimizes cleanup while maximizing taste.

To make this dish, you’ll need just five ingredients: sausages, bell peppers, olive oil, garlic, and onion. The combination of these ingredients creates a delightful medley that’s satisfying and delicious.

Ingredients

• 4 sausages (your choice of type)
• 2 bell peppers (any colors you like)
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sausages and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Remove the sausages and set aside. In the same skillet, add sliced onion and bell peppers.
4. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
5. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
6. Return the sausages to the skillet and mix everything together. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy your quick and easy meal!

Coconut Curry Chickpeas

Coconut curry chickpeas are a delightful dish that packs a punch of flavor while being super simple to make. This meal is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy coconut milk blends beautifully with spices, creating a comforting curry that pairs perfectly with rice.

The image shows a vibrant bowl of chickpeas, glistening in a rich coconut curry sauce. Fresh cilantro adds a pop of color, while a wedge of lime hints at the zesty flavor waiting to be unleashed. This dish is not only visually appealing but also a nourishing option for any meal.

With just five ingredients, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time. It’s a great way to enjoy plant-based protein while savoring the warm spices of curry. Let’s get cooking!

Zucchini Noodles with Marinara Sauce

Zucchini noodles, often called zoodles, are a fun and healthy twist on traditional pasta. They offer a light and fresh alternative, perfect for those looking to cut carbs or add more veggies to their meals. In this dish, the zoodles are topped with a rich marinara sauce, making it a quick and satisfying meal.

The vibrant colors in the image showcase the bright green of the zucchini alongside the deep red of the marinara sauce. A sprinkle of fresh basil on top adds a pop of color and a burst of flavor. This dish is not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to prepare.

To make this meal, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet delicious. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Spiralize the Zucchini: Use a spiralizer to create noodles from the zucchinis. If you don’t have a spiralizer, a vegetable peeler can work too.
2. Cook the Zoodles: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the zucchini noodles and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until just tender. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Add the Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce over the zoodles and stir to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
4. Serve: Plate the zoodles and top with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your quick and healthy meal!