What’s for dinner? Ah, that age-old question that’s on everyone’s mind somewhere between the end of a long work day and the kids’ afterschool activities. The whole family is pressed for time and starving, so a quick and easy dinner is in order! What at first might appear challenging is, in fact, really quite simple . . . as long as your pantry is stocked with the essentials. Whipping up a quick meal, without compromising on nutrition and flavour, can help simplify your busy life. Here’s what every quick-fire chef needs to have in their arsenal in order to serve up supper in a flash.

WHAT’S FOR DINNER?

Looking for a quick dinner idea? Here are a few inspiring meal ideas that are quick and easy to make, and won’t compromise on nutrition or flavour!

EXPRESS PIZZA NIGHT

You don’t need to be a pizza chef to serve up a pie worthy of a trattoria! The secret? Loading up on store-bought naan bread! Naan bread freezes well and can be thawed in a flash, for a quick and easy dinner. Simply top with Stefano Faita Alfredo sauce, garlic, zaatar-spiced spinach and mushrooms, and a generous handful of mozzarella cheese! Discover this mouth-watering recipe here.

VACATION-STYLE MEALS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE WEEK

Why only treat yourself to succulent seafood when you’re summering on the coast? Wild Argentinean shrimp patties can turn any Wednesday into a flavour festival! Simply top your burger buns with your shrimp patties, spinach, and a dollop of Bang Bang mayo . . . and serve with a side of crisp shoestring fries!

If you have any leftover Bang Bang mayonnaise, you can use it as a base for a poke bowl later that same week (another simple dinner recipe!). Head to our frozen food section and grab a pack of Sushi à la maison Bang shrimp. Then, toss them with some fresh mango cubes, chives, cucumbers, and green onions.

MEDITERRANEAN-INSPIRED VEGETARIAN OPTIONS

Vegetarian dishes have three main advantages: they can be adjusted to please almost everyone, they’re inexpensive, and they’re quick to prepare! Chickpeas are an excellent alternative to meat; in addition to being super versatile, chickpeas are rich in fibre and help lower cholesterol. A great way to benefit from chickpeas’ many virtues is to serve them with orzo rice, spinach, lemon, and a mixture of zaatar seasoning. Zaatar is a spice blend typically used in Middle Eastern cuisine; add it to your spice cabinet today and take your taste buds on a trip around the world!

A QUICK INDIAN DISH

Your best kitchen allies are, without contest, Ricardo's cooking sauces. The butter chicken sauce is sure to transport you and your family to the best Indian restaurant! Serve your Indian-style chicken thighs with a side of green beans, which pair perfectly with the curry flavour, and some warm naan bread—we’re pretty sure everyone will lick their plate clean!

KEY INGREDIENTS FOR A QUICK DINNER

For a quick and easy dinner, make sure to always have a few key ingredients on hand. With the right ingredients, your desire for takeout will quickly turn into a delicious home-cooked meal in minutes!

• Breadcrumbs for crusted fish

  Many fish, such as haddock, take very little time to cook, making them the perfect option for busy weeknight dinners. The secret to a delicious fish fillet? Breadcrumbs! If you’re really pressed for time, opt for frozen breaded fish . . . they’re just as delish!

• Tuna: nourishing and versatile!

  Any chef that’s pressed for time knows to stock their pantry with several cans of tuna! Tuna packed in oil is not as dry and is great in pasta and sautéed veggies. It also makes a great addition to salad. For a hearty lunch, try these white tuna and jalapeno quesadillas . . . even the biggest of appetites will be satisfied!

  

• Diced tomatoes

  If you have canned diced tomatoes, pasta, garlic, and olive oil, then you can make a delicious dinner in just 30 minutes. And if you happen to have veal, artichoke hearts, olives, and mushrooms, then you can treat your family to this recipe in under a half hour!

• Salad staples

  With a crisp lettuce base, you can easily come up with a dozen or so tasty salad variations. Opt for Fresh Attitude products—they’re pre-washed and always fresh.

  When it comes to your dressing, simply whisk together some olive oil, lemon, honey or maple syrup, and vinegar (think apple cider, balsamic, etc.). Cranberries, nuts, and cheese (feta, Parmesan, or goat) all make excellent add-ins. Try combining shrimp, cilantro, mangoes, and siracha sauce for a Californian shrimp salad that’s ready in just 25 minutes. If you’re really running late, grab ready-to-eat salads—they’re hearty and crisp.

• Pesto

  Not only is pesto delicious in pasta (served with sautéed vegetables, chicken, or shrimp), it also adds a ton of flavour to any sandwich. Mixed with mayonnaise, it pairs perfectly with smoked turkey. And it’s great with mussels or sole fillets; it really is very versatile!