Busy evenings do not have to mean boring dinners. These 14 weeknight recipes are all about real flavor without the long hours, each one coming together in just 30 minutes. Simple ingredients, smart shortcuts, and plenty of comfort make these dishes perfect for getting dinner on the table fast and enjoying every bite. Let the magic begin.
Stracciatella Soup
Stracciatella soup is the perfect blend of Parmesan cheese, eggs, spices, and herbs that transform a pot of good-tasting liquid into an elegant event. Straciatella means “little rags” as a reference to the appearance of the eggs in the soup. This Roman egg drop soup, stracciatella alla romana, has been my go-to soup since my nonna first made it for me. It is my comfort food. Get the Recipe: Stracciatella Soup
Bucatini all’Amatriciana
Bucatini all’ Amatriciana is probably the most famous pasta of central Italy. Onions, pancetta, tomato, and strong pecorino romano cheese cling to perfectly cooked bucatini pasta. A classic Roman pasta dish, amatriciana requires only a handful of ingredients and comes together quickly. Get the Recipe: Bucatini all’Amatriciana
Chicken Marsala
This classic chicken marsala brings your favorite Italian restaurant dish into your kitchen. It is the perfect weekday dinner or date night with just a few ingredients and easy instructions. According to legend, a Sicilian chef created this chicken marsala recipe for French families during the Napoleonic Wars, blending Italian and French influences into a rich, savory dish. Get the Recipe: Chicken Marsala
Ravioli with Artichoke Hearts, Capers, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Sand pinach
Ravioli with artichoke hearts, capers, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach. Do I get a Yummy!! A meatless meal that will keep you coming back for more. It is a savory Italian recipe that has all the savory flavors of summer. Not to mention quick and easy to prepare.. Get the Recipe: Ravioli with Artichokes Hearts, Capers, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Spinach
Pork Tenderloin Scaloppine with Balsamic Citrus Sauce
The scaloppines are so thin they will be thoroughly cooked within minutes. My only advice is to have all the ingredients ready before cooking the pork tenderloin, which takes less than 10 minutes. Quick and super delicious, this dish will bring a smile to all who will enjoy it. Get the Recipe: Pork Tenderloin Scaloppine with Balsamic Citrus Sauce
Mascarpone Tortellini – Quick Weeknight Dinner
For a quick and delicious school night dinner, try mascarpone tortellini! This dish combines creamy mascarpone cheese with tender cheese tortellini for a comforting, simple meal. Pair it with a light salad to complete the dinner. Don’t you love it when a recipe is easy, takes less than 10 minutes to assemble, and tastes delicious? I sure do. And when it involves only four ingredients, it is even better for a delicious weeknight meal. Get the Recipe: Mascarpone Tortellini – Quick Week Night Dinner
Orange Roughy with Capers, Shallots, and Wine Butter Sauce
It’s simple yet elegant—a beautiful sauce that begs for a piece of bread to savor every drop. I love this dish because it is packed with exquisite flavors and ready in less than 30 minutes. It’s sure to earn accolades from everyone, whether on a busy school night or at an impromptu dinner with friends. Get the Recipe: Orange Roughy with Capers, Shallots and Wine Butter Sauce
Orecchiette Pasta, Chickpeas, and Cherry Tomatoes
Ready in just 20 minutes, this creamy orecchiette pasta, chickpeas, and cherry tomatoes make weeknight cooking feel effortless and delicious. Bursting with fresh flavor and wholesome ingredients, it’s perfect for a quick dinner or a laid-back gathering. Comfortable, vibrant, and sure to win everyone, this orecchiette dish is one of those easy, feel-good meals when I want something fresh, flavorful, and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Get the Recipe: Orecchiette Pasta, Chickpeas, and Cherry Tomatoes
Caesar’s Salad Dressing with Shrimp Saltimbocca
A quick, and I mean fast, spin to our favorite Caesar’s Salad. You, too, can make this delicious dressing and dish in less than 15 minutes, from beginning to end. Get the Recipe: Caesar’s Salad Dressing with Shrimps Saltimbocca
Chicken and Artichokes
This classic Italian dish of tender bite-size chicken sauteed with white wine, lemon juice, and tender artichoke hearts will steal your heart with how all the flavors come together, leaving you wanting more. Get the Recipe: Chicken and Artichokes
Shrimp and Grits Recipe
All I have been craving lately is pure comfort on a plate. Nothing hits that spot like a hearty bowl of Shrimp and Grits — rich, warm, and utterly satisfying. Creamy soft grits with a medley of soft vegetables over it. Tender shrimp with a perfect sauce to go along Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Recipe
Broiled Salmon with Spicy Maple Syrup
Enjoy delightful flavors with our Broiled Salmon with Spicy Maple Syrup. This recipe combines the rich flavor of salmon with a sweet-and-spicy maple glaze, creating a perfect balance of savory and sweet. It’s the ideal dish for any occasion, quick to prepare, and bursts with flavor. Get the Recipe: Broiled Salmon with Spicy Maple Syrup
Penne Pasta with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Potatoes
Imagine tender, juicy sausage bites cooked in tomatoes, absorbing all the sweetness they offer. The potato provides all the starch needed and another layer of earthiness. Then, mix it with the perfectly al dente penne pasta. Get the Recipe: Penne Pasta with Sausage, Tomatoes and Potatoes
Sole Meuniere
Indulge in the flavors of France with this classic Sole Meunière recipe! This delightfully simple dish features tender sole fillets lightly floured and sautéed to golden perfection, drizzled with an irresistible brown butter sauce, tart lemon, and fragrant parsley. Get the Recipe: Sole Meuniere
