When you’re short on time and ingredients, it can be tempting to order takeout or skip cooking altogether. But what if I told you that with just a few staples in your pantry, you can whip up delicious meals in no time? From classic pasta dishes to international-inspired stir-fries, these 20 quick recipes are perfect for busy nights when you need something fast and flavorful.
In the following pages, we’ll explore some of our favorite pantry recipes that require minimal ingredients and effort. Whether you’re a student on-the-go or a working professional with a hectic schedule, these meals are sure to become your new go-to’s.
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This simple yet flavorful recipe originated in Italy, where it’s a staple comfort food. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, which translates to “spaghetti with garlic and oil,” is a quick and easy dish that combines the perfect balance of savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3-4 garlic cloves
– 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2-3 dried red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, combine olive oil, garlic cloves, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook over medium-low heat for 4-5 minutes or until the garlic is golden brown and fragrant.
3. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated with the garlic and oil mixture.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and toss again.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pantry Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil
A quick and satisfying meal that’s ready in no time! This recipe uses pantry staples to create a flavorful and aromatic pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant, stirring occasionally.
3. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the garlic and olive oil. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Chickpea Curry
This simple and flavorful curry recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and nutritious meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz)
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the chickpeas and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let curry simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato and White Bean Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe combines the richness of cannellini beans with the sweetness of fresh tomatoes, creating a deliciously simple meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked cannellini beans
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cooked cannellini beans, and dried basil.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna and White Bean Salad
This refreshing salad combines the protein-rich flavor of tuna with the creamy texture of white beans, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this delicious and nutritious dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 (5 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup cooked cannellini beans
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the tuna, cannellini beans, red onion, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the tuna mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (excluding refrigeration time)
Lentil and Rice Pilaf
This hearty pilaf combines the comforting flavors of lentils and rice with aromatic spices, making it a perfect one-pot meal for any occasion. With its rich texture and earthy taste, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, lentils, rice, water or broth, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Fluff with a fork and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pantry Fried Rice
This recipe is perfect for using up leftover rice and pantry staples to create a delicious and satisfying meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a tasty dish that’s great for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the frozen vegetables; cook until thawed and heated through.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
8. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quick Black Bean Quesadillas
A flavorful and satisfying snack or meal that can be ready in no time! These quesadillas are packed with protein, fiber, and spices, making them a great option for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– Optional toppings: salsa, avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together black beans, cheese, olive oil, onion, garlic, and cumin.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle about 1/4 cup of the bean mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter and Banana Oatmeal
This recipe combines the creamy richness of peanut butter, the sweetness of ripe bananas, and the wholesomeness of rolled oats to create a satisfying breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 medium banana, sliced
– 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 tsp salt
– Pinch of ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring 1/2 cup water to a simmer.
2. Add the oats and reduce heat to low. Cook for 5 minutes or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid.
3. Stir in the sliced banana, peanut butter, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
4. Continue cooking for an additional 30 seconds to melt the peanut butter and combine flavors.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Ramen Noodle Stir-Fry
Transform plain ramen noodles into a flavorful and satisfying meal with this simple recipe. This stir-fry is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a lazy Sunday lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
6. Stir in the cooked noodles, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
7. Cook for an additional minute to combine.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pantry Minestrone Soup
This hearty, comforting soup is a perfect way to use up those pantry staples you’ve been holding onto. With a medley of vegetables and beans, this recipe is easy on the wallet and can be ready in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, vegetable broth, and basil.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Canned Salmon Patties
These moist and flavorful patties are a great way to use canned salmon, making them perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.75 oz) can of salmon, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or non-stick cooking spray for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine flaked salmon, panko breadcrumbs, chopped onion, garlic, egg, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
2. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of cooking oil or non-stick cooking spray in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Fry patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides or condiments.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Instant Pot Rice and Beans
Cooking rice and beans together in an Instant Pot creates a flavorful and nutritious meal with minimal effort. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 1 cup cooked kidney beans (canned or cooked from scratch)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the rice, cooked beans, water, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 6 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
7. Open the lid, fluff the rice with a fork, and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 16 minutes
Garlic Butter Canned Corn
Elevate your canned corn game with this simple recipe that adds a rich and savory twist to a classic side dish. Perfect for accompanying grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a comforting addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can of corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Drain the canned corn and place it in a baking dish.
3. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the corn kernels.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the corn is heated through and lightly caramelized.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pasta with Canned Tuna and Capers
This simple yet flavorful pasta dish is a great way to get a nutritious meal on the table quickly. With canned tuna, capers, and a few other pantry staples, you can have a delicious dinner ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add flaked tuna to the pan and stir to combine with garlic and oil. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in capers and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and tuna mixture. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Chickpea and Tahini Salad
This salad combines the creamy richness of tahini with the nutty flavor of chickpeas, all tied together with a squeeze of lemon juice. Perfect for a quick lunch or as a side dish for your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 ounces), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste.
2. Stir until the chickpeas are well coated with the tahini mixture.
3. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top of the salad and toss gently.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Pantry Peanut Noodles
This recipe is a simple yet satisfying meal that can be whipped up with pantry staples. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a lazy Sunday, Pantry Peanut Noodles are a flavorful and filling treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tsp honey
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped peanuts or scallions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, water, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Add cooked noodles to the saucepan and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped peanuts or scallions (if desired).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Canned Tomato Pasta
Looking for a comforting and satisfying meal that can be ready in no time? This Simple Canned Tomato Pasta recipe is just the thing for you. With minimal ingredients and effortless preparation, you’ll have a delicious and flavorful pasta dish on your table in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
– 1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine with the onion and garlic mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Once the pasta is cooked, drain and add it to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Oatmeal Pancakes with Cinnamon
Start your day with a warm and comforting bowl of oatmeal pancakes infused with the sweet warmth of cinnamon. These fluffy treats are perfect for a family breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, milk, and melted butter.
3. Add cinnamon to the wet ingredients and stir to combine.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the pan.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes total, depending on batch size.
Quick Pantry Granola Bars
Satisfy your snack cravings with these easy-to-make granola bars that require only a few pantry staples.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup peanut butter (or nut butter of choice)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, and honey. Mix until well combined.
3. Add brown sugar and chopped nuts (if using); mix until a dough forms.
4. Press the dough into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Yield: 8-10 granola bars
These no-bake granola bars are perfect for a quick snack or lunchbox addition. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Summary
Need a quick and delicious meal for a busy night? Look no further! This article features 20 recipes that use common pantry staples, eliminating the need to run to the store. From hearty pasta dishes like Spaghetti Aglio e Olio and Pantry Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil, to international-inspired meals like Easy Chickpea Curry and Tuna and White Bean Salad, there’s something for everyone. Plus, some sweet treats like Peanut Butter and Banana Oatmeal and Oatmeal Pancakes with Cinnamon to satisfy your cravings. Get cooking with these quick and easy recipes!
Leave a Reply