Are you tired of cooking complicated meals that take up too much time and effort? Do you wish you had more delicious options to share with your family and friends without sacrificing flavor or quality? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 simple and easy DIY recipes that are sure to become staples in your kitchen. From classic comfort foods like homemade pesto pasta and easy no-knead bread, to quick and healthy options like one-pot vegetable soup and simple guacamole dip, these recipes are designed to make cooking a breeze. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a foodie seeking inspiration for your next meal, we’ve got you covered. So grab a pen and paper, and let’s get started on our culinary adventure!
Homemade Pesto Pasta
Enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal with this simple recipe that combines the classic Italian sauce with al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto sauce (see below for recipe)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Pesto Sauce Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts or almonds)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– Salt to taste
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 separate pan, combine the pesto sauce ingredients and blend until smooth.
3. Combine cooked pasta and pesto sauce. Toss well to coat.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Pasta cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Pesto sauce preparation time: 5 minutes
Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp
Add a touch of sophistication to your meal with this simple yet flavorful recipe for garlic butter shrimp. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a romantic evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together butter, garlic, and lemon juice until well combined.
3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Easy No-Knead Bread
Make delicious homemade bread with minimal effort using this simple no-knead recipe. This method produces a crusty exterior and soft interior, perfect for sandwiches or toast.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
– 1 1/2 cups water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Add water and mix until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let it rest at room temperature for 24 hours.
4. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
5. Dust a baking sheet or Dutch oven with cornmeal.
6. Gently shape the dough into a round or oblong form and place on the prepared surface.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
DIY Granola Bars
Make your own healthy and delicious granola bars at home with just a few simple ingredients! This recipe is perfect for a quick snack or as a post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, etc.)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, nuts, and brown sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, combine honey, peanut butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Fold in dried cranberries or raisins.
6. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
8. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Guacamole Dip
In just a few minutes, you can create a delicious and healthy dip perfect for snacking or entertaining. This simple guacamole recipe is a classic favorite that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a large bowl, use a fork to mash the avocado halves until they’re mostly smooth.
3. Add the lime juice, red onion, garlic, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Stir until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If desired, add the chopped jalapeño for an extra kick.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This dip is ready in just a few minutes.
One-Pot Vegetable Soup
Enjoy a comforting and nutritious soup made with a variety of colorful vegetables, all cooked in one pot!
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add carrots, celery, and mixed vegetables; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Pour in vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Easy Homemade Pizza Dough
Make your own pizza dough at home with this simple recipe. In just a few minutes, you’ll have a delicious and versatile base for your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of warm water
– 1 tablespoon of sugar
– 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 4 cups of all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add the olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour, one cup at a time, until the dough comes together in a sticky ball.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
Cooking Time:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and shape into your desired pizza form. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
DIY Hummus with Veggie Sticks
This classic Middle Eastern dip is a staple for any snack or party. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and healthy spread to enjoy with your favorite veggie sticks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– Water (optional)
– Veggie sticks (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, etc.)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly pour in olive oil.
4. Serve with veggie sticks of your choice.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes ( preparation only)
Enjoy your delicious homemade hummus with crunchy veggie sticks!
Quick Chicken Stir-Fry
This speedy stir-fry recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious and nutritious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
4. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the mixed bell peppers and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Return the chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
7. Cook for an additional minute, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Berry Smoothie
This refreshing berry smoothie is perfect for a hot summer day or as a healthy breakfast on-the-go. With just a few simple ingredients, you can blend together a delicious and nutritious drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup almond milk
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the frozen berries, sliced banana, and Greek yogurt.
2. Add the honey and blend until smooth.
3. Pour in the almond milk and blend until well combined.
4. Add ice cubes if you want a thicker consistency.
5. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the smoothie is the desired thickness.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and enjoy!
DIY Trail Mix
Get ready to fuel up with this deliciously simple DIY Trail Mix recipe! With a mix of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, you’ll have the perfect snack for your next adventure.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
– 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed nuts and rolled oats.
2. Add the dried cranberries and raisins to the mixture.
3. Stir in the sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds.
4. Drizzle the honey over the mixture and sprinkle with salt.
5. Mix until well combined.
Cooking Time: None! Simply mix and serve.
Easy Chocolate Chip Cookies
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these classic cookies that are quick, easy, and utterly delicious! This recipe yields a batch of chewy, chocolatey goodness that’s perfect for snacking or sharing.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients and chocolate chips until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Homemade Tomato Soup
Cozy up with a warm bowl of this classic comfort food! This recipe yields a rich and flavorful tomato soup that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes (or canned crushed tomatoes), basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for 10-15 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Pour in broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let soup simmer for 20-25 minutes.
6. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth (or transfer it to a blender in batches).
7. If desired, stir in heavy cream to add richness.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or crusty bread crumbs.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Quick Omelette with Veggies
Quick Omelette with Veggies: Whip up a nutritious breakfast or snack with this simple recipe that combines fluffy eggs, sautéed veggies, and a hint of cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter or oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste.
2. Heat the butter or oil in a small non-stick pan over medium heat.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
4. Add the mixed bell peppers; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until tender.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the veggies in the pan.
6. Cook the omelette for 1-2 minutes, until the edges start to set.
7. Use a spatula to gently fold the omelette in half.
8. Cook for an additional 30 seconds, then slide onto a plate.
9. Sprinkle with shredded cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Simple Banana Bread
Perfect for a quick snack or as a sweet addition to your breakfast, this simple banana bread recipe is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you’ll be enjoying warm, fragrant banana bread in no time!
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add mashed bananas, melted butter, sugar, and eggs to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
DIY Energy Bites
Revitalize your day with these no-bake energy balls made with wholesome ingredients! These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a post-workout snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, or cherries)
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats and dried fruit.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together peanut butter and honey until smooth.
3. Add the nut mixture to the peanut butter mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Gradually add the oat mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
5. Roll into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
6. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None! These energy bites are no-bake, so you can enjoy them immediately after preparation.
Easy Pancake Batter
Start your day with a stack of fluffy pancakes using this simple batter recipe. Perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch, these pancakes are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
4. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes to allow the flour to absorb the liquid.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Homemade Caesar Salad Dressing
A creamy and tangy condiment that elevates any salad, this homemade Caesar dressing is a staple for any food lover’s kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious substitute for store-bought options.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (120ml) olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 egg yolk
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine garlic, lemon juice, egg yolk, mustard, salt, and black pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly pour in olive oil in a thin stream.
4. Continue blending until the dressing is emulsified and thickened.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Stir well before using.
Cooking Time: None, just blend!
Quick Taco Seasoning Mix
Add flavor to your tacos with this simple and convenient seasoning mix. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings, this recipe makes about 1/4 cup of seasoning that can be used immediately or stored for up to 6 months.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix until well combined and the spices are evenly distributed.
3. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months or use immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This is a dry seasoning mix that’s ready to use as soon as you make it.
Simple Roasted Vegetables
Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in vegetables, making them a delicious side dish or addition to any meal. This recipe requires minimal effort and yields a flavorful result.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 cups mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. If desired, add additional seasonings and toss to combine.
4. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 simple and easy DIY recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds! From classic comfort foods like homemade pesto pasta and easy no-knead bread, to healthy snacks like DIY granola bars and simple guacamole dip. This collection also includes quick and delicious meals like one-pot vegetable soup, garlic butter shrimp, and chicken stir-fry. Plus, sweet treats like easy chocolate chip cookies and simple banana bread. Whether you’re a busy bee or a culinary newbie, these recipes are perfect for anyone looking to cook up something tasty without breaking a sweat.
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