Discover easy dinner recipes with vegetables that are quick, nutritious, and perfect for busy weeknights. Try these simple meals for wholesome eating.
Easy dinner recipes with vegetables are a perfect way to add color, flavor, and nutrition to your weeknight meals. Whether you’re looking for something quick or want to make a hearty meal, these dishes fit all needs. You can find inspiration for these healthy dinner recipes throughout this post.
Why You’ll Love It
These easy dinner recipes with vegetables are simple to prepare and packed with nutrients. They are flexible, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Plus, they can satisfy both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. If you’re after dinner recipes that save time without sacrificing flavor, this guide is for you.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, broccoli, or any favorites)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (can substitute avocado or vegetable oil)
- 1 onion, chopped – for sweetness and depth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – adds aroma and flavor
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice (alternatively couscous or bulgur)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried herbs such as basil, oregano, or thyme (or fresh herbs if preferred)
- Optional: grated cheese or nutritional yeast for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 7-10 minutes until tender but still vibrant.
- Stir in the cooked quinoa or rice, salt, black pepper, and herbs.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes to blend flavors thoroughly.
- Serve warm, topped with cheese or nutritional yeast if desired.
For more ideas, check out our Easy Weeknight Dinners and Simple Vegetable Recipes sections.
Expert Tips
When making these easy dinner recipes with vegetables, be sure not to overcook the veggies; they should be tender but still have a slight bite. To make it more filling, add your choice of protein like chickpeas, tofu, or cooked chicken. You can prepare ingredients ahead of time to speed up dinner prep. Also, adjusting seasonings to your preference is key to making each dish your own.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. These dishes also freeze well: portion them into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Variations
- Vegan: Use nutritional yeast instead of cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Use quinoa or rice instead of any wheat-based grain.
- Dairy-Free: Omit cheese or replace with plant-based cheese.
- Low-Carb: Replace grains with cauliflower rice or extra vegetables.
FAQ
- What are easy dinner recipes with vegetables that kids will enjoy?
- Simple, colorful dishes such as vegetable fried rice or pasta primavera usually appeal to kids. Adjust seasoning and offer dips if needed.
- Can I meal prep these dinner recipes?
- Yes, these dinners are perfect for meal prepping. Cook in bulk and store in portions for quick reheating.
- How can I add protein to these vegetable dinner recipes?
- Add beans, lentils, tofu, tempeh, or cooked chicken to boost protein content easily.
- Are these recipes suitable for gluten-free diets?
- Yes, by using gluten-free grains like rice or quinoa, these dinner recipes are safe for gluten-free eaters.
- Why are these dinner recipes considered healthy?
- They focus on whole vegetables, minimal oil, and balanced nutrients, making them great for a wholesome diet.
If you enjoyed these easy dinner recipes with vegetables, please leave a comment, rate the recipe, and share it with friends. Happy cooking!