5 Ingredients or Less for The Simplest Meals for Any Day

The Simplest Meals for Any Day

Avocado Toast with a Twist

This isn’t your typical avocado toast! With just a few added ingredients, it’s transformed into a breakfast (or snack) bursting with flavor and texture.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 slice of whole-grain bread
• 1 teaspoon everything bagel seasoning
• A drizzle of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon crumbled feta cheese

Instructions:

1. Toast the bread to your desired crispness.
2. Halve the avocado, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a bowl. Mash it slightly with a fork.
3. Spread the mashed avocado onto the toast.
4. Sprinkle the everything bagel seasoning evenly over the avocado, add crumbled feta, and finish with a drizzle of olive oil.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy your upgraded avocado toast!

Garlic Parmesan Pasta

This creamy and flavorful pasta requires only a handful of ingredients, making it an ideal option for a quick lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your choice)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about ¼ cup of pasta water.
2. In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Toss in the cooked pasta and stir to coat. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until creamy. If the pasta is too thick, add a little pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper, serve immediately, and enjoy your simple yet satisfying pasta!

Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon

This salmon recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s light, flavorful, and pairs well with almost any side, from a fresh salad to roasted veggies.

Ingredients:

• 1 salmon fillet (about 6 ounces)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Juice of ½ lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place the salmon fillet on the baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle minced garlic on top, then season with salt and pepper.
3. Squeeze the lemon juice over the salmon.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your salmon, until it flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve warm with a lemon wedge on the side for an extra zing.

Classic Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese

A simple, comforting grilled cheese with fresh tomato and basil gives a classic recipe a Mediterranean twist. Perfect for lunch or a quick snack!

Ingredients:

• 2 slices of bread (sourdough or whole wheat)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 slices of cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or your choice)
• 1 small tomato, thinly sliced
• 2-3 fresh basil leaves

Instructions:

1. Butter one side of each bread slice.
2. Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, in a skillet over medium heat. Top with cheese, tomato slices, and basil leaves, then cover with the other slice of bread, buttered side up.
3. Cook until the bread is golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side, and the cheese is melted.
4. Slice and serve while warm for a gooey, flavorful treat.

Banana Pancakes

With just a few ingredients, these banana pancakes are both fluffy and naturally sweet. They make for a fantastic breakfast or brunch that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana
• 2 eggs
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
• A pinch of salt
• Cooking spray or a little butter for the pan

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, mash the banana until smooth.
2. Whisk in the eggs, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and coat with cooking spray or a small amount of butter.
4. Pour small amounts of the batter onto the skillet to make mini pancakes. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, like maple syrup or fresh fruit.

Chickpea and Spinach Stir-Fry

For a quick vegetarian option, this chickpea and spinach stir-fry is nutrient-dense and full of flavor. It’s perfect for a light meal or as a side.

Ingredients:

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the chickpeas and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Toss in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper and serve warm. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or as a side to grilled protein.

Easy Chicken Tacos

Chicken tacos with minimal ingredients are a delicious, customizable dinner option. These can be topped with any extras you like, but they’re perfectly tasty with just the basics!

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• 8 small corn tortillas
• ½ cup shredded cheese (your choice)
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken breasts with taco seasoning.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, until fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.
3. Warm the tortillas in the skillet or microwave.
4. Place sliced chicken on each tortilla, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and garnish with fresh cilantro.
5. Serve with your favorite salsa or hot sauce for a quick, flavorful meal.

These recipes prove that delicious, homemade meals don’t require a lengthy list of ingredients. With just five ingredients or less, you can create satisfying dishes that are full of flavor. Try these recipes on busy days or whenever you want a simple yet delicious meal without the hassle.