It's getting to that point in everyone's calendar year where even the basics like cooking and cleaning are slipping through the cracks. We're all busy with work, family and trying to keep up with our social lives, so it's only natural that we feel a yearning for simplicity elsewhere.
Anywhere in our lives where we can cut a corner right now, we will – and that includes our weeknight meals. When you're not sharing the burden of cooking with a parent, partner or housemate, this can be a particularly taxing part of your day – so we thought we'd round up some of our favourite quick and low-maintenance weeknight meals that still pack a nutritional and delicious punch.
1. Julia Busuttil Nishimura's twice-cooked broccoli pasta
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Julia Busuttil Nishimura has hacked the system, and devised a recipe that's carby and satisfying, but still jam-packed with vegetables. It's as simple as they come and ready in under 30-minutes. Pro tip: serve with a heavy-handed helping of fresh parmesan.
2. Roberta Pecoraro's butter beans
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Butter beans are one of those magical ingredients. They're hearty and good for you, but also versatile, creamy, and delicious – and probably something you already have in the pantry. This recipe utilises the flavour of balsamic roasted cherry tomatoes, basil, parsley, and pecorino. Enjoy on its own or as a side to your protein of choice.
3. Lucy Rosenberg's honey miso chicken with ginger broth and rice
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This recipe might seem complicated, because there are a few components, but it's really not. The chicken is perfectly charred – sweet and sticky – the greens bring a bit of freshness, and the brothy rice will really keep you satisfied (it's also so flavourful).
4. Jem Lester's chopped chicken salad
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Take it from Jem herself: this is perfect for meal prep. Make in bulk on a Sunday night and enjoy for lunch or dinner for the week. It's fresh and healthy (great for when the weather heats up), and dressed with a light soy and sesame concoction.
5. Brooke Kelly's sausage, kale and butter bean minestrone
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Don't be fooled by the longer ingredient list: this recipe is a one-pot-wonder. It's packed full of vegetables, and best eaten with freshly grated parmigiano reggiano and buttered sourdough toast. Yes please.
6. Kayla LaManna's slow cooker beef curry
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This is one of those low-effort meals that genuinely pays off. You can throw all the ingredients in your slow cooker, and in a few hours, you'll be staring over a bowl of rich, creamy beef curry over fluffy rice.
Feature images via TikTok: @emilymariko, @thehealthyhophead, @christianpetracca_5
