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Speedy Recipes: Quick and Delicious Meals for the Busy Cook

In today’s fast-paced world, it can often feel like there are simply not enough hours in the day. Between work commitments, family obligations, and social engagements, finding time to prepare healthy and delicious meals can be a challenge. However, with a little creativity and a few go-to recipes, you can whip up delicious dishes in no time. Here are some speedy recipes that are not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavour!

1. One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 200g green beans, trimmed

Instructions:

1. In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme. Add to the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
3. Add the garlic and lemon juice to the pan, followed by the green beans. Cover and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the beans are tender.
4. Serve with a side of rice or crusty bread for a complete meal.

2. Pasta Primavera

Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Serves: 2

Ingredients:

• 200g pasta (any shape)
• 1 courgette, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 150g cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh basil, to garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the courgette, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
3. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet, tossing everything together. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

3. Taco Salad

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: None
Serves: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 can (400g) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 250g corn (fresh or canned)
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 avocado, chopped
• 150g cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 bag of tortilla chips
• 100g cheddar cheese, grated
• Salsa and sour cream, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the black beans, corn, bell pepper, avocado, and cherry tomatoes. Mix gently.
2. Serve by layering tortilla chips on plates, topped with the salad mixture. Finish with grated cheese and your choice of salsa and sour cream.
3. Enjoy this refreshing salad as a light lunch or dinner!

4. Speedy Vegetable Stir-Fry

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Serves: 2

Ingredients:

• 200g mixed vegetables (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 2 spring onions, sliced
• Cooked rice or noodles, to serve

Instructions:

1. Heat the sesame oil in a wok or large frying pan over high heat.
2. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until cooked but still crisp.
3. Stir in the soy sauce and ginger, mixing well for another minute.
4. Serve over rice or noodles.

Conclusion

Cooking doesn’t have to be a time-consuming chore. With these speedy recipes in your culinary arsenal, you can serve up delicious meals in a flash. Whether you’re catering for a family dinner or need a quick lunch fix, these dishes are as practical as they are tasty. Get creative, experiment with your favourite ingredients, and discover how easy cooking can be when you’re short on time!

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