Here are a few easy, flexible dinner ideas sized for two people. Amounts are approximate, so adjust to taste and appetite.
One pan chicken fajitas
- Toss 2 sliced chicken breasts with sliced bell peppers, onions, 1–2 tablespoons oil, and fajita or taco seasoning.
- Roast on a sheet pan at 200°C / 400°F for about 20–25 minutes, stirring once, until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are soft and a bit charred.
- Serve in warm tortillas with any combo of lime, sour cream or yogurt, salsa, and grated cheese.
20‑minute garlic butter pasta
- Cook 180–200 g (about 6–7 oz) pasta for two in salted water. Reserve half a cup of the cooking water.
- In a pan, gently cook 2–3 minced garlic cloves in 2–3 tablespoons butter (and a splash of olive oil) until fragrant, then add a pinch of chili flakes and black pepper.
- Toss in the drained pasta with a little cooking water, add grated Parmesan and salt to taste, and finish with chopped parsley or any fresh herb and lemon juice.
Simple baked salmon and veg
- Place two salmon fillets on a lined tray, surround with bite‑size pieces of any quick‑roasting veg (broccoli, green beans, cherry tomatoes, thin carrot slices).
- Drizzle everything with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon; add dried herbs if you like.
- Bake at 200°C / 400°F for 12–15 minutes until salmon flakes and vegetables are tender.
One‑pan sausage and potatoes
- Slice 2–3 sausages into chunks and cube 3–4 small potatoes (or 2 medium). Toss with sliced onion, a little garlic, oil, salt, pepper, and dried herbs or paprika.
- Spread on a pan and roast at 210°C / 425°F for 25–30 minutes, turning once, until potatoes are crisp and sausages browned.
- Add a handful of cherry tomatoes or green beans for the last 10 minutes if you want extra veg.
Very fast veggie stir‑fry
- Cook 150–180 g (about 5–6 oz) rice or noodles for two.
- In a hot pan, stir‑fry mixed vegetables (fresh or frozen) in a tablespoon of oil for 4–6 minutes; add sliced tofu, chicken, or shrimp if you want protein.
- Stir in 2–3 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 teaspoon sugar or honey, a small splash of vinegar or lime, and a little chili or garlic; toss with the rice or noodles and serve.