Quick & Easy Recipes for Busy Days

In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a luxury. Whether you’re a student, a working professional, or just someone who prefers spending less time in the kitchen, quick & easy recipes are your secret weapon for eating well without sacrificing time or flavor. Here’s a roundup of smart, simple recipes that require minimal ingredients and effort but deliver maximum taste!

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1. 15-Minute Vegetable Stir-Fry

Whip up a nutritious meal in no time with this versatile stir-fry.
Ingredients:

• 1 cup assorted fresh veggies (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• Salt, pepper, and chili flakes (optional)

Directions:

1. Heat oil in a pan, sauté garlic until fragrant.
2. Add veggies; stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp.
3. Splash in soy sauce, stir well, season, and serve with rice or noodles.

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2. One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken

Perfect for a protein boost and practically mess-free!
Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt & pepper, herbs (thyme/rosemary)

Directions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl, marinate chicken for five minutes.
2. Heat skillet, cook chicken 5 minutes each side until golden and cooked through.
3. Serve with steamed vegetables or salad.

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3. Simple Egg Fried Rice

A lifesaver for leftover rice!
Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked rice
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup mixed veggies
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oil

Directions:

1. Heat oil in a pan, scramble eggs, and set aside.
2. Sauté veggies, add rice and soy sauce.
3. Stir in eggs, mix well, and enjoy hot.

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4. No-Bake Peanut Butter Oat Bars

Great for a quick snack or breakfast!
Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Directions:

1. Mix oats, peanut butter, sweetener until combined.
2. Press into a lined tray, sprinkle chocolate chips (if using).
3. Chill for 1 hour, slice, and serve.

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5. Speedy Caprese Salad

A classic Italian salad ready in minutes.
Ingredients:

• 2 ripe tomatoes, sliced
• 100g mozzarella cheese, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt & pepper

Directions:

1. Layer tomatoes and mozzarella, scatter basil.
2. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle salt & pepper. Serve immediately.

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Tips for Faster Cooking

• Prep ingredients in advance for the week.
• Invest in a good non-stick pan and sharp knives.
• Keep staples like eggs, rice, and frozen veggies on hand.
• Batch cook and store in airtight containers.