16 Healthy & Easy Dinner Recipes for Any Night

easy dinner recipes steak with potato and red wine
Image by rorozoa on Freepik

When it comes to making easy dinner recipes, we all want meals that are both nutritious and quick to prepare, especially after a long day. In this post, we’ve curated a variety of dinner recipes that strike the perfect balance between health and convenience. No matter if you’re looking for dishes that are quick to put together, rich in flavor, or more tailored to meet dietary needs like gluten-free options, we have you covered.

From wholesome ingredients like fresh vegetables and lean proteins to creative twists on classic meals, these recipes will help you fuel your body without spending hours in the kitchen. Additionally, for those with dietary restrictions, we’ve included a section of gluten-free meals that exclude wheat, rye, barley, and oats, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a satisfying and delicious dinner.

Each recipe comes with a breakdown of ingredients, simple instructions, and tips on how to make meal prep even easier. Dive in and discover new go-to dinner ideas that will bring more nutrition and variety to your week!

If you missed our previous recipe posts you can check out the breakfast, lunch, or snack posts now!

1. Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Quinoa Salad

This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is not just a healthy dinner; it’s a satisfying meal that combines lean protein with vibrant Mediterranean flavors.

The marinade of fresh lemon juice and oregano provides a refreshing zest, while the grilled chicken is tender and packed with protein to support muscle recovery after a long day.

The quinoa salad, loaded with fresh veggies like cucumber and tomatoes, adds a nutrient-dense side that’s rich in fiber and essential minerals like magnesium. Perfect for those who want a quick, light, and nutritious meal without sacrificing taste, this recipe ensures you get a well-rounded, gluten-free dinner on your table in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 lemon (juiced)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 1 cucumber (chopped)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Marinate the chicken with lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
  2. While the chicken is marinating, cook the quinoa according to package instructions and let it cool slightly before adding veggies.
  3. Grill the chicken over medium heat for 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through. The key is to ensure the chicken is golden brown on the outside yet tender on the inside.
  4. Mix the cooked quinoa with chopped cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Serve the grilled chicken atop the quinoa salad for a perfect blend of hearty protein and fresh, zesty flavors.

Pro Tip: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken overnight to allow the lemon and herbs to penetrate deeply, making the meat extra tender.

  • The Gear: A sturdy, high-quality grill pan that ensures even cooking and beautiful char marks.
  • The Chief Ingredient: Organic quinoa is a must.
  • The Convenience Factor: Whole Foods has you covered for zero hormone, and pasture raised chicken breasts.

2. One-Pot Garlic Shrimp and Spinach Pasta

easy dinner recipe healthy One-pot Garlic Shrimp and Spinach pasta

This simple yet flavorful pasta dish is a game-changer for busy weeknights. Featuring plump shrimp sautéed with garlic and fresh spinach, it’s a meal that delivers high-quality protein and essential vitamins with minimal effort.

The best part? It all comes together in one pot, so you save time on both cooking and cleaning. The light garlic sauce, enhanced by the natural flavors of shrimp and the earthiness of spinach, ensures a delicious, nutrient-packed dinner in less than 20 minutes.

Whether you’re looking to impress with a fancy-feeling dish or just whip up a quick and nourishing meal after work, this recipe fits the bill.

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz whole wheat pasta
  • 12 large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 3 cups fresh spinach
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Cook the whole wheat pasta according to the package directions. Once done, drain and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, heat olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let it burn.
  3. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and are just cooked through, about 3 minutes.
  4. Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Return the pasta to the pot, and pour in the chicken broth, stirring well to combine and heat everything through.
  5. Serve immediately, garnishing with fresh cracked pepper and optional parmesan cheese.

Pro Tip: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving to brighten up the flavors of the garlic and shrimp. It adds a zesty kick that pairs perfectly with the dish and enhances the freshness of the spinach.

  • The Gear: A large, deep non-stick pot to sauté and mix everything efficiently I can’t recommend enough.

3. Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon with Asparagus

Baked lemon garlic Salmon with asparagus gluten free easy healthy dinner ideas

Baked salmon is not only a heart-healthy choice rich in omega-3 fatty acids but also a quick and flavorful dinner option for busy weeknights.

The zesty lemon and aromatic garlic give the salmon a fresh, tangy kick, while asparagus adds a crisp, nutrient-packed side that complements the dish perfectly.

This one-pan meal requires minimal prep and cleanup, making it a fantastic option for those who want a nutritious, gourmet-style dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

  • 4 salmon fillets
  • 1 bunch asparagus (trimmed)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 lemon (sliced)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the salmon fillets and asparagus on a lined baking sheet.
  2. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and asparagus, then season with garlic, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place lemon slices over the salmon fillets for extra flavor.
  4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is flaky and cooked through.
  5. Serve the salmon alongside the roasted asparagus, squeezing additional lemon juice on top for added zest.

Pro Tip: For an extra crispy texture, broil the salmon and asparagus for the last 2 minutes of baking. It gives the fish a slight char and enhances the flavor, while keeping the asparagus perfectly roasted and tender.

  • The Gear: If you don’t have an air fryer, do yourself a favor and get one, and learn the ways of amazing convenience and efficiency.
  • The Chief Ingredient: Fresh wild caught salmon is the only way to go. It’s loaded with omega-3s (unlike farm raised) and a rich source of high-quality protein.
  • The Convenience Factor: If you go the oven route, make sure you have a sturdy, oven-safe baking sheet for even cooking and easy cleanup.

4. Beef Stir-Fry with Bell Peppers and Broccoli

This stir-fry brings together lean beef, colorful bell peppers, and nutrient-packed broccoli for a fast and filling dinner. It’s perfect for those who need a protein boost while also getting their daily dose of veggies.

The dish is flavored with a light soy-ginger sauce that adds an umami-rich punch to the stir-fry, making it both flavorful and healthy. With everything cooked in one pan in under 20 minutes, this meal is perfect for weeknights when time is short but your appetite is big.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb flank steak (thinly sliced)
  • 2 bell peppers (sliced)
  • 1 head of broccoli (chopped into florets)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tbsp ginger (grated)
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil

Instructions:

  1. Heat sesame oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the sliced beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant, then add bell peppers and broccoli.
  4. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
  5. Return the beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
  6. Serve immediately with a side of rice or noodles.

Pro Tip: To keep your beef tender and juicy, be sure not to overcrowd the pan while cooking it. Searing in batches allows the meat to brown evenly and lock in its natural flavors without steaming.

5. Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers

These vegetarian stuffed bell peppers are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and nutrition.

Filled with a delicious mix of quinoa, black beans, and tomatoes, they provide a balanced dinner rich in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins. The bell peppers themselves are a great source of antioxidants and vitamin C, while the quinoa and beans ensure you stay full and energized.

This is a perfect meatless meal option that’s hearty enough to satisfy even the most dedicated carnivores.

Ingredients:

  • 4 large bell peppers (tops cut off, seeds removed)
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 can black beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ cup shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  3. Stuff the mixture into the hollowed bell peppers and place them in a baking dish.
  4. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the stuffed peppers.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
  6. Serve hot with a side salad for a complete meal.

Pro Tip: For an added crunch and burst of flavor, top the stuffed peppers with crushed tortilla chips or roasted pumpkin seeds before baking. It adds texture and extra nutrients!

  • The Gear: We recommend a deep, oven-safe baking dish to keep the stuffed peppers upright during baking.
  • The Convenience Factor: Quickly and easily gut your bell peppers with this genius tool.

6. Spaghetti Squash with Marinara and Turkey Meatballs

Spaghetti squash is a wonderful low-carb alternative to traditional pasta, offering a mild flavor and light texture that pairs perfectly with marinara sauce and turkey meatballs.

This meal is both comforting and healthy, with lean turkey providing protein and the squash contributing vitamins and fiber.

Plus, it’s a fun way to enjoy a classic pasta dish without the heavy carbs, making it an ideal dinner for those watching their carb intake.

Ingredients:

  • 1 large spaghetti squash
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 egg
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
  • 1 jar marinara sauce
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and bake it face-down on a baking sheet for 40 minutes.
  2. Meanwhile, mix ground turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Form into meatballs.
  3. In a skillet, cook the meatballs until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
  4. Heat the marinara sauce in the same skillet once the meatballs are cooked through.
  5. When the squash is done, use a fork to scrape out the “spaghetti” strands and serve with the marinara and meatballs.

Pro Tip: After roasting, let the spaghetti squash cool slightly before scraping out the strands—it will be easier to handle, and the texture will be better for absorbing the marinara sauce.


Gluten-Free Easy Dinner Recipes: Flavorful Meals Without Wheat, Rye, Barley, or Oats

For those who need or prefer to avoid gluten, preparing nutritious dinners can seem limiting—but it doesn’t have to be. (Even some of the above recipes are gluten free)

This collection of gluten-free recipes is designed to deliver on both taste and nutrition, while excluding common gluten-containing ingredients like wheat, rye, barley, and oats.

If you’re just dealing with gluten intolerance or simply looking to diversify your meals, these recipes are full of flavor and perfect for any weeknight. From vibrant veggie dishes to hearty protein-packed meals, we’ve got you covered with plenty of delicious, gluten-free options that are easy to make and satisfying for the whole family.

1. Grilled Chicken with Zucchini Noodles

Grilled Chicken with Zucchini Noodles easy healthy dinner with chicken

This light and flavorful dish replaces traditional pasta with zucchini noodles for a low-carb, gluten-free alternative.

Grilled chicken adds protein, while the zucchini noodles provide fiber and essential vitamins like vitamin C.

It’s a refreshing and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for those looking to maintain a gluten-free lifestyle.

Ingredients:

  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 3 zucchinis (spiralized into noodles)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic (minced)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Grill the chicken until fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes on each side.
  2. While the chicken is grilling, heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the garlic.
  3. Add the spiralized zucchini noodles and cook for 2-3 minutes, until slightly softened.
  4. Serve the grilled chicken over the zucchini noodles and garnish with Parmesan if desired.

Pro Tip: For perfectly tender zucchini noodles, avoid overcooking them. Sauté for just 2-3 minutes to keep the noodles slightly firm and prevent sogginess.

  • The Gear: We’ve mentioned a grill pan and an air fryer already, so get on it if you don’t have either one yet.
  • The Convenience Factor: Zucchini noodles can be made with ease if you have the right tool.

2. Lamb Chops with Roasted Vegetables

Lamb chops are a great source of protein and iron, while roasted vegetables add a colorful, nutrient-dense side.

This meal is rich in flavor, with herbs and olive oil enhancing the natural taste of the lamb and veggies.

Ingredients:

  • 4 lamb chops
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp rosemary
  • 2 carrots (sliced)
  • 1 bell pepper (sliced)
  • 1 red onion (quartered)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes.
  2. Season the lamb chops with rosemary, salt, and pepper. Grill or pan-fry the chops for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
  3. Serve the lamb chops alongside the roasted vegetables.

Pro Tip: Let your lamb chops rest for 5 minutes after cooking to lock in their juices. This will ensure a more tender and flavorful bite.

  • The Gear: A good-quality grill pan or cast-iron skillet for the lamb chops. If you prefer a pre-seasoned skillet you can grab one here. (The benefits to bare cast-iron is you can season the skillet with your chosen oil such as tallow or coconut oil instead of the poisonous vegetable oil.)
  • The Chief Ingredient: Lamb provides high levels of protein and essential fatty acids (and is nearly always grass fed)

3. Thai Coconut Curry Shrimp

Thai Coconut Curry Shrimp with zucchini and bell peppers easy healthy dinner idea

This dish brings together the creamy richness of coconut milk with the spicy, aromatic flavors of Thai curry.

Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, and the dish is naturally gluten-free, making it ideal for those following a restrictive diet.

It’s also quick to prepare, perfect for busy nights when you want a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 2 tbsp Thai red curry paste
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 bell pepper (sliced)
  • 1 zucchini (sliced)
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat a large pan over medium heat and add the curry paste. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Stir in the coconut milk and fish sauce, then bring to a simmer.
  3. Add the shrimp and vegetables, cooking until the shrimp turn pink and the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in lime juice. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve.

Pro Tip: Use full-fat coconut milk for a richer and creamier curry sauce. If you prefer a lighter option, reduce the amount of coconut milk and add a splash of vegetable broth.

  • The Gear: The aforementioned stainless steal wok is still a great idea.
  • The Chief Ingredient: The thickness and creaminess of the curry is dependent on the coconut milk. This organic brand comes in a pack of 12 and will for sure make the best curry you’ve ever had.
  • The Convenience Factor: Get some organic red curry paste to make this dish 10 times faster. Or get the variety pack to make all kinds of curry!

4. Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Black Beans and Avocado

Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Black Beans and Avocado with diced tomato and onion easy dinner healthy ideas

Sweet potatoes provide a naturally gluten-free base for this nutritious and filling meal.

The combination of black beans and avocado ensures you get plenty of fiber and healthy fats. This meal is quick to prepare and packed with flavor, making it a great option for a meatless dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 4 sweet potatoes
  • 1 can black beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 1 avocado (diced)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the sweet potatoes for 45 minutes, or until tender.
  2. While the sweet potatoes are baking, heat the black beans in a pan with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  3. Once the sweet potatoes are done, slice them open and stuff them with the black bean mixture and diced avocado.
  4. Serve with a squeeze of lime juice and fresh cilantro.

Pro Tip: Roast the sweet potatoes at a higher temperature (around 425°F) to get a crispy skin while keeping the inside tender and fluffy. Or add some diced tomato and onion for a kick in flavor and texture!

5. Chicken Fajita Lettuce Wraps

Chicken Fajita Lettuce Wraps with bell peppers and onion easy dinner

These chicken fajita lettuce wraps are a healthy, gluten-free alternative to traditional fajitas. Using crisp lettuce leaves instead of tortillas keeps this meal low-carb and light.

The chicken and vegetables provide a well-rounded combination of protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a filling yet refreshing dinner option.

Ingredients:

  • 2 chicken breasts (sliced into strips)
  • 1 bell pepper (sliced)
  • 1 onion (sliced)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 large lettuce leaves

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chicken strips and cook for 5-6 minutes, until browned.
  2. Add the bell pepper and onion, along with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, until the vegetables are soft.
  3. Serve the chicken and vegetables in large lettuce leaves as wraps.

Pro Tip: Choose large, sturdy lettuce leaves like Romaine or Bibb to hold the filling without tearing. You can also double-layer the leaves for extra durability.

  • The Gear: Treat yourself to the best non-toxic and non-stick pan there is, ceramic.
  • The Chief Ingredient: Try only using organic chicken breast, you can get it delivered from ButcherBox or Crowd Cow.

6. Turkey and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Snap Peas and Mushrooms

Turkey and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Snap Peas and Mushrooms easy dinner recipes

This turkey and vegetable stir-fry is a fantastic alternative to the traditional beef-based version. Lean ground turkey offers a lighter option, while snap peas and mushrooms bring a hearty bite and loads of vitamins.

The stir-fry is seasoned with a soy-ginger sauce that enhances the flavors of the vegetables and makes the turkey juicy and flavorful. It’s a quick and easy meal to prepare, ideal for a healthy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 cup snap peas
  • 1 cup mushrooms (sliced)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tsp ginger (grated)
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, sauté the garlic and ginger for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add the snap peas and mushrooms and stir-fry for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  5. Return the cooked turkey to the pan, add soy sauce, and stir everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve hot with a side of brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Pro Tip: For extra flavor, add a splash of rice vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes to give the dish a slight tang and a bit of heat.

  • The Gear: A Zyliss Easy Pull Food Chopper can help mince garlic and ginger quickly, making vegetable prep much easier.
  • The Chief Ingredient: Ground turkey from a subscription service like Crowd Cow can be a great affiliate item. Fresh, grass-fed turkey offers superior taste and quality, including zero glyphosate, for this dish.

7. Spaghetti Squash with Marinara Sauce

Spaghetti squash is a fantastic gluten-free alternative to traditional pasta, and its mild flavor pairs beautifully with marinara sauce.

This dish is low in carbs, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins like A and C, making it a nutritious choice for dinner. The marinara sauce adds a touch of tang and richness, balancing out the natural sweetness of the squash.

Ingredients:

  • 1 large spaghetti squash
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and drizzle with olive oil.
  2. Place the squash halves face down on a baking sheet and roast for 40 minutes or until tender.
  3. In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté the garlic. Add marinara sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper, then simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Once the squash is done, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. Top with marinara sauce and Parmesan if desired.

Pro Tip: To make scraping out the spaghetti strands easier, let the cooked squash cool for 10 minutes before using a fork to create the “spaghetti.” And toss in some sliced grilled chicken for some protein!

  • The Gear: Again, a sharp knife cannot be understated and it should be the one thing that spares no expense. Wüsthof is a brand people know and love.
  • The Convenience Factor: Instead of making the spagehetti squash yourself you can get it, organic and fresh and sustainable, from services like Misfits Market.

8. Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Chimichurri Sauce

Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Chimichurri Sauce healthy dinner

This recipe features succulent shrimp grilled to perfection and drizzled with a zesty homemade chimichurri sauce.

The combination of garlic, parsley, cilantro, and vinegar gives the shrimp a burst of fresh, bold flavors, making this dish a perfect light, gluten-free dinner option.

Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup fresh parsley (finely chopped)
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro (finely chopped)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • ¼ cup red wine vinegar
  • ½ cup olive oil (for chimichurri)
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  2. Thread the shrimp onto skewers and grill for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
  3. To make the chimichurri sauce, mix parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and red pepper flakes in a bowl.
  4. Drizzle the chimichurri sauce over the grilled shrimp skewers and serve immediately.

Pro Tip: For extra flavor, let the shrimp marinate in the chimichurri sauce for 15-20 minutes before grilling. This allows the vibrant, garlicky herbs to soak into the shrimp, enhancing its taste even further.

  • The Chief Ingredient: Need a more convenient source for wild caught salmon? Companies like Vital Choice or Sea to Table provides sustainably sourced, high-quality salmon for this nutrient-packed dish.
  • The Convenience Factor: Pre-trimmed asparagus from Green Giant Fresh can save time in the kitchen without sacrificing flavor or freshness.

9. Baked Chicken Thighs with Brussels Sprouts

Baked Chicken Thighs with Brussels Sprouts healthy easy dinner recipes with chicken

Baking chicken thighs with Brussels sprouts creates a one-pan meal that’s both hearty and healthy.

Chicken thighs are juicier than breasts and pair well with the slightly caramelized flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts.

This dish is gluten-free, easy to prepare, and loaded with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts (halved)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the Brussels sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread them on a baking sheet.
  2. Season the chicken thighs with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Place them on top of the Brussels sprouts.
  3. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the chicken is golden and crispy and the Brussels sprouts are tender.

Pro Tip: For extra-crispy chicken skin, pat the thighs dry with paper towels before seasoning and baking. This helps remove moisture, ensuring a golden, crispy result.

10. Herb-Crusted Cod with Cauliflower Rice

Herb Crusted Cod with Cauliflower Rice easy healthy dinner recipe

This light and healthy dinner recipe features flaky cod with a crispy herb crust, served on a bed of flavorful cauliflower rice.

The combination is both nutritious and satisfying, making it perfect for those following a gluten-free diet. Cod is rich in lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, while cauliflower rice is a low-carb, fiber-packed alternative to grains.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cod fillets
  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill (chopped)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 egg (beaten)
  • 1 head cauliflower (grated or pre-packaged as “cauliflower rice”)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a small bowl, combine almond flour, parsley, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  3. Dip the cod fillets into the beaten egg, then coat them with the herb and almond flour mixture.
  4. Place the fillets on the baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
  5. While the fish bakes, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the cauliflower rice for 5-7 minutes until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Serve the herb-crusted cod over the cauliflower rice, with lemon wedges on the side for extra flavor.

Pro Tip: To achieve an extra-crispy crust, lightly pan-fry the cod in olive oil before baking it to give the almond flour coating a golden, crunchy texture.

  • The Gear: A microplane grater is ideal for zesting lemons or grating fresh garlic and herbs for the herb crust.
  • The Chief Ingredient: Try services like Wild Alaskan Company for sustainable wild caught fish.

Wrapping Up Your Nutritious Dinner Journey

Image by Racool_studio on Freepik

No matter your dietary preferences or restrictions, creating healthy, delicious dinners doesn’t have to be a chore. With these nutritious and easy-to-make recipes, you have a variety of flavorful meals that cater to both traditional and gluten-free diets. From time-saving dishes to vibrant, nutrient-packed dinners, this collection offers something for everyone. Remember, meal planning can be both enjoyable and nourishing, and with the right ingredients and tools, you can elevate your dinnertime routine to be more creative, wholesome, and satisfying. So grab your gear, explore new flavors, and get cooking!

Disclaimer: For Your Health and Safety

Remember, the information provided in this blog post is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian before making any significant changes to your diet, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

Mitchell Boyce
Mitchell Boyce

I love staying healthy! Since I was young I was instilled with a passion for treating my body right. Throughout the years I have experienced my own ups and downs and ways in which to best combat things related to aging. Here are on this website it is my goal to share as much information as is useful to help others feel a little bit better every day.

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