As a working mom of two, I know how challenging it can be to cook dinner (almost) every night. Luckily, I work from home, but once the kids step off the school bus, all bets are off. They’re clamoring for a snack and unwinding from the day, plus there are backpacks to be unpacked, papers to look through, and homework to get done. Although I’m a foodie and love to cook, weeknights are not the time to be adventurous or try new recipes. I have to rely on healthy, 30 minute meals if it’s going work.
Between after-school activities, doctors’ appointments or Target runs for the umpteenth time, I bet you need a list of healthy 30 minute meals too. Read on for 9 healthy, easy dinner recipes you can pull off in 30 minutes—or less.
1. GRILLED SHRIMP KABOBS
My husband usually makes kabobs when we have get-togethers over the summer, but I’m thinking about making them more often because my kids love them.
That’s because variety is the spice of life when it comes to encouraging kids to eat healthy and try new foods.
With kabobs, kids have control over what they eat—within the choices you give them.
Depending on their ages, they can also assemble the kabobs themselves.
Kabob are also a different way to serve dinner and they’re fun to eat.
That’s why I was thrilled when I found this recipe for Grilled Shrimp Kabobs.
Shrimp is an excellent source of protein, has the healthy fats kids need and makes the list of safe types of fish for kids.
This recipe calls for a handful of easy ingredients but feel free to switch up the vegetables or add another protein.
2. LOW CARB SAUSAGE EGG ROLL IN A BOWL
Deconstructed egg rolls and egg rolls in a bowl are really trendy right now and for good reason.
With all the yummy goodness of an egg roll, but without the fried roll itself, and tons of healthy ingredients, this Low Carb Sausage Egg Roll in a Bowl takes just 15 minutes—so easy.
3. EASY BAKED PORK TENDERLOIN
If you’re getting tired of finding new ways to make chicken for dinner, try “the other white meat.”
This Easy Baked Pork Tenderloin, served with a fresh salad and herbaceous rice (or your favorite grain), is a kid-friendly dish.
Since it only takes 25 minutes to make, it’s a great option for a quick weeknight dinner.
4. SWEET POTATO VEGAN BUDDHA BOWL
Sweet potatoes are usually a hit with kids and that’s why this Sweet Potato Vegan Buddha Bowl makes the list of healthy 30 minute meals.
With a sheet pan and some basic appliances, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time and your kids can even help to assemble them.
5. SAUSAGE AND RAPINI
This recipe for Sausage and Rapini (broccoli rabe), is a classic Italian dish, and because it’s so easy and quick, it’s one of the best healthy 30 minute meals you can make.
If your kids are like mine and love sausage, this will be a winner.
The broccoli rabe may be a tough sell since it’s slightly bitter, but the salt, pepper and chili flakes help to bring out the robust flavor.
Besides, if you and dad are eating your greens, your kids are more likely to follow suit.
6. PANCETTA WRAPPED COD WITH BLISTERED TOMATOES AND LENTILS
Forget the frozen fish sticks and try this recipe for Pancetta Wrapped Cod With Blistered Tomatoes and Lentils.
Anything wrapped in pancetta is delicious, but the combination of lentils and tomatoes makes for a sweet and savory dish your kids will love.
To save time, make a double batch of lentils ahead of time which will also give you a meal for another night.
Forget the frozen fish sticks and try this recipe for Pancetta Wrapped Cod With Blistered Tomatoes and Lentils.
Anything wrapped in pancetta is delicious, but the combination of lentils and tomatoes makes for a sweet and savory dish your kids will love.
To save time, make a double batch of lentils ahead of time which will also give you a meal for another night.
7. ONE PAN SPANISH CHICKEN AND RICE
She may be straight-off-the-boat Italian, but my mother-in-law makes the most amazing Spanish yellow rice and my kids devour it every single time.
Chicken and rice are foods most kids love so this One Pan Spanish Chicken and Rice recipe is sure to be a hit.
With a short list of ingredients and only 3 steps, you can get dinner on the table in no time.
8. OVEN BAKED CHICKEN FAJITAS
A great alternative to tacos, you only need a sheet pan to make these Oven Baked Chicken Fajitas.
Let your kids choose their favorite toppings (guacamole, salsa, etc.) and you’ve got one of the best healthy 30 minute meals to put into a regular rotation.
9. QUICK BROCCOLI LENTIL STIR FRY
This is another recipe that calls for lentils, but it’s because they are seriously one of the healthiest foods your can feed your kids.
This Quick Broccoli Lentil Stir Fry has a handful of easy ingredients, a ton of taste and texture, and it’s bursting with bright, beautiful colors.
And since it’s quick and easy, it makes the list of 30 minute meals.
