Quick and easy weeknight dinners

1. Stir-Fried Noodles: Cook your choice of noodles (such as rice noodles or soba noodles) according to package instructions. In a separate pan, stir-fry a mix of vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas) with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. Toss the cooked noodles with the vegetables and add a protein of your choice, such as tofu, chicken, or shrimp.
2. Sheet Pan Chicken and Vegetables: Place chicken breasts or thighs, along with your favorite vegetables (such as broccoli, bell peppers, and zucchini), on a sheet pan. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with seasoning (such as garlic powder, paprika, and Italian herbs), and bake in the oven until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
3. Quesadillas: Spread a layer of cheese, along with your desired fillings (such as cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, or black beans), between two tortillas. Cook the quesadilla on a skillet over medium heat until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy. Serve with salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.
4. One-Pot Pasta: In a large pot, combine your choice of pasta, diced tomatoes, vegetables (such as spinach or broccoli), garlic, herbs (such as basil or oregano), and vegetable or chicken broth. Bring to a boil and simmer until the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened. Top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
5. Taco Salad: Brown ground beef or turkey in a skillet with taco seasoning. Assemble a salad with a bed of lettuce or mixed greens and top with the cooked meat, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, shredded cheese, and sliced avocado. Drizzle with a dressing of your choice, such as ranch or salsa.
6. Veggie Stir-Fry: Sauté a mix of colorful vegetables (such as bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snap peas) in a pan with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. Serve over steamed rice or quinoa and add tofu, tempeh, or edamame for added protein.
7. Baked Salmon with Roasted Vegetables: Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with foil. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs (such as dill or lemon zest). Surround the salmon with your choice of vegetables, like cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts. Drizzle everything with olive oil and bake until the salmon is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
8. Caprese Salad: Arrange slices of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves on a plate. Drizzle with balsamic glaze or olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Serve with crusty bread or a side of cooked grains.

Remember to adjust the recipes based on your dietary preferences and any specific dietary restrictions you may have. These ideas should help you whip up a delicious meal in no time, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying dinner on busy weeknights.