10 Simple Meals to Make While Self Quarantined

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1. One-Pot Pasta Primavera

This vibrant dish is packed with fresh vegetables and can be made in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. You can use whatever vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes.

  • Ingredients:
    • 8 oz pasta (any type)
    • 2 cups vegetable broth
    • 1 cup mixed vegetables (fresh or frozen)
    • 2 tbsp olive oil
    • 1 tsp garlic powder
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Instructions:
    • In a large pot, combine the pasta, vegetable broth, mixed vegetables, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
    • Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
    • Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

2. Chickpea Salad

This refreshing salad is not only easy to make but is also nutritious and filling. It’s perfect for lunch or as a side dish with dinner.

  • Ingredients:
    • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
    • 1 cucumber, diced
    • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
    • 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
    • 2 tbsp olive oil
    • 1 tbsp lemon juice
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
  • Instructions:
    • In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
    • In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
    • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Add feta cheese if using.
    • Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

3. Vegetable Stir-Fry

A quick and colorful vegetable stir-fry is a great way to use up any leftover vegetables in your fridge. Pair it with rice or noodles for a complete meal.

  • Ingredients:
    • 2 cups mixed vegetables (fresh or frozen)
    • 2 tbsp soy sauce
    • 1 tbsp sesame oil
    • 1 tsp grated ginger
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)
  • Instructions:
    • In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
    • Add garlic and ginger, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
    • Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until cooked through.
    • Stir in soy sauce and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
    • Serve hot over rice or noodles.

4. Easy Quesadillas

Quesadillas are a quick and customizable meal. Use whatever cheese and fillings you have on hand – they are perfect for using up leftovers!

  • Ingredients:
    • Tortillas (flour or corn)
    • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, etc.)
    • 1/2 cup cooked chicken, beans, or vegetables (optional)
    • Salsa or sour cream (for serving)
  • Instructions:
    • Heat a skillet over medium heat.
    • Place a tortilla in the skillet, sprinkle cheese over half of the tortilla, and add any additional fillings.
    • Fold the tortilla over and cook until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
    • Cut into wedges and serve with salsa or sour cream.

5. Simple Vegetable Soup

This comforting soup is perfect for chilly days and can be made using pantry staples. Feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand.

  • Ingredients:
    • 1 tbsp olive oil
    • 1 onion, chopped
    • 2 carrots, diced
    • 2 celery stalks, diced
    • 4 cups vegetable broth
    • 1 can diced tomatoes
    • 2 cups mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
    • Salt, pepper, and herbs (like thyme or basil) to taste
  • Instructions:
    • In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
    • Add the broth, diced tomatoes, mixed vegetables, salt, pepper, and herbs.
    • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes.
    • Serve hot and enjoy!

6. Banana Oatmeal Pancakes

Start your day with these healthy and delicious pancakes made with mashed bananas and oats. They are quick to whip up and full of flavor!

  • Ingredients:
    • 1 ripe banana, mashed
    • 1 cup rolled oats
    • 1 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
    • 1 tsp baking powder
    • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
    • Maple syrup or honey (for serving)
  • Instructions:
    • In a bowl, combine mashed banana, oats, milk, baking powder, and vanilla extract.
    • Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and pour 1/4 cup of the batter for each pancake.
    • Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
    • Serve warm with maple syrup or honey.

7. Baked Potatoes with Toppings

Baked potatoes are a versatile meal option that can be topped with a variety of ingredients, allowing for creativity and customization!

  • Ingredients:
    • 4 medium potatoes
    • 1 cup shredded cheese
    • 1/2 cup sour cream
    • 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits (optional)
    • Chives or green onions (for garnish)
  • Instructions:
    • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
    • Wash and poke holes in the potatoes with a fork. Rub with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
    • Bake directly on the oven rack for 45-60 minutes until tender.
    • Once baked, cut a slit in the top and fluff the insides with a fork. Top with cheese, sour cream, bacon bits, and chives.

8. Easy Fried Rice

This fried rice recipe is a fantastic way to use leftover rice and vegetables. It’s quick to prepare and delicious!

  • Ingredients:
    • 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
    • 1 cup mixed vegetables (fresh or frozen)
    • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
    • 3 tbsp soy sauce
    • 1 tbsp sesame oil
    • Green onions for garnish
  • Instructions:
    • In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for about 3-4 minutes.
    • Push the vegetables to one side and pour in the beaten eggs, scrambling until fully cooked.
    • Add the cooked rice and soy sauce, stirring to combine everything. Cook for another 3-5 minutes.
    • Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

9. Simple Tomato Basil Pasta

This classic dish is incredibly easy and requires just a few ingredients. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a comforting meal.

  • Ingredients:
    • 8 oz spaghetti or any pasta
    • 1 can diced tomatoes
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
    • 2 tbsp olive oil
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Instructions:
    • Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
    • In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
    • Add the diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, and basil. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
    • Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce and serve warm.

10. No-Bake Energy Bites

These energy bites are perfect for a quick snack or dessert. They are easy to make and require no baking!

  • Ingredients:
    • 1 cup rolled oats
    • 1/2 cup nut butter (peanut, almond, etc.)
    • 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
    • 1/2 cup chocolate chips or dried fruit
    • 1/4 cup chia seeds (optional)
  • Instructions:
    • In a bowl, mix together all ingredients until well combined.
    • Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
    • Place energy bites in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to set.
    • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Conclusion

These 10 easy recipes are perfect for anyone looking to cook at home while self-quarantined. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll be able to whip up delicious meals without much hassle. Whether you prefer pasta, salads, or hearty soups, there’s something here for everyone. Enjoy your time in the kitchen and stay safe!

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Bonus Recipe: Comforting Vegetable Soup

This vegetable soup is not only hearty and healthy, but it’s also a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you have in your fridge.

  • Ingredients:
    • 1 tbsp olive oil
    • 1 onion, chopped
    • 2 carrots, diced
    • 2 stalks celery, diced
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 4 cups vegetable broth
    • 2 cups mixed vegetables (fresh or frozen)
    • 1 tsp dried oregano
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Instructions:
    • In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
    • Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
    • Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
    • Add the mixed vegetables and oregano. Reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.
    • Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Another Bonus: Savory Breakfast Burritos

These breakfast burritos are perfect for a filling breakfast that can also be made ahead of time and frozen for later use.

  • Ingredients:
    • 4 large eggs
    • 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
    • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
    • 4 tortillas
    • 1/2 avocado, sliced
    • Salsa for serving
  • Instructions:
    • In a bowl, whisk the eggs and scramble them in a skillet over medium heat.
    • Add black beans and cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted.
    • Warm the tortillas in a separate pan, then fill each with the egg mixture, sliced avocado, and salsa.
    • Roll up the tortillas and serve immediately or wrap in foil for a freezer-friendly meal.

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