Preparing a nutritious dinner doesn’t have to be a time-consuming endeavor. With just 10 minutes to spare and a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy meal that will fuel your body and satisfy your taste buds. Here are some quick and easy ideas for putting together a well-balanced dinner in a flash:

Keep your pantry and freezer stocked with staples such as whole grains (quinoa, brown rice, farro), legumes (canned beans, lentils), and frozen vegetables. These items have a long shelf life and form the foundation of a healthy meal, providing complex carbohydrates, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals.

For a simple dinner, cook some quinoa according to the package instructions, and while that’s cooking, chop up some vegetables. You can use fresh, frozen, or a combination of both. Sauté the vegetables in a pan with some olive oil and your choice of spices. Once the quinoa is done, mix it in with the vegetables, and you’ve got yourself a hearty and nutritious bowl.

You can also try a bean and veggie burrito. Take a whole-wheat tortilla and fill it with canned black beans, chopped onions, peppers, and your choice of spices. Heat it up in a pan or in the microwave, and serve with some salsa and avocado slices on top. It’s a quick, tasty, and well-balanced meal.

Omelets are another great option for a fast and nutritious dinner. Beat two or three eggs in a bowl, and then pour them into a hot pan with some melted butter or oil. Let the eggs cook for a minute, and then add your favorite fillings. You can use leftover vegetables, cheese, ham, or anything else that takes your fancy. Fold the omelet in half and serve it with some toasted wholegrain bread for a dinner that’s packed with protein and vegetables.

If you’re a pasta fan, try making a quick pasta salad. Cook some pasta according to the package instructions, and while that’s cooking, chop up some vegetables and mix them with a simple vinaigrette dressing. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down, and then mix it with the vegetables and dressing. You can also add in some canned tuna, chickpeas, or leftover chicken for some extra protein.

For a heartier option, you might want to try a one-pot wonder. Take a pot or a pan and start by cooking some chopped onions and garlic. Then add in your choice of protein (chicken, beef, tofu) and brown it quickly. Toss in some vegetables (fresh or frozen) and a cup of grains (rice, quinoa, or small pasta), and then add a tin of diced tomatoes and some stock or water. Bring it to a boil, reduce the heat, and let it simmer until everything is cooked.

With these simple tips and meal ideas, you can easily prepare a nutritious and delicious dinner in just 10 minutes. So, even on your busiest days, you can still enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal. Happy cooking!