Let’s face it – midweek cooking can sometimes feel like a race against the clock, especially when energy flags and the fridge looks like a jumble sale. But cooking simple, nourishing meals doesn’t have to be a chore or a creative headache. Here are three tasty, satisfying dishes that call for no more than five ingredients each, making weeknight dinners a breeze without sacrificing flavour or nutrition. Because when time is tight, simplicity wins – and healthy food always cheers the soul.
Creamy Garlic Prawn Pasta
This dish feels indulgent but is so easy to pull together. The golden prawns, silky sauce, and al dente pasta are a match made in midweek heaven.
Ingredients:
Frozen or fresh prawns (peeled), Spaghetti or linguine, Garlic cloves (fresh), Cream (pouring cream or light cream) and Olive oil
How: Cook pasta according to packet instructions. In a pan, warm olive oil and gently sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Toss in prawns, cooking until pink. Stir through cream and heat until slightly thickened. Combine with drained pasta, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Dinner is served!
Rustic Chickpea and Pumpkin Curry
Vegetarian, hearty, and with a beautiful golden hue, this curry is comfort food on a busy weeknight.
Ingredients:
Canned chickpeas (drained), Pumpkin (cut into cubes), Coconut milk, Curry powder and Onion
How: Sauté chopped onion until soft, then sprinkle in curry powder and cook briefly to release the spices. Add pumpkin cubes, chickpeas, and coconut milk. Simmer until pumpkin is tender and sauce has thickened. Serve with rice or crusty bread.
Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs
Minimal fuss, maximum flavour – these chicken thighs bake up juicy, sweet, and tangy with just a handful of ingredients.
Ingredients:
Chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on), Honey, Dijon mustard, Fresh rosemary (or dried) and Olive oil
How: Mix honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil. Rub this delicious glaze under the skin of the chicken thighs, sprinkle with rosemary. Bake at 200°C (390°F) for 30-35 minutes until cooked through and golden. Serve with steamed greens or a simple salad.
When the week sends those busy vibes, remember great meals don’t need an elaborate shopping list. With just five ingredients and simple techniques, these dishes bring warmth and satisfaction to the table, keeping cooking enjoyable and stress-free. Who says midweek can’t be mouthwatering?
Bon appétit!