Easy Food Recipes With Few Ingredients

Name: Easy Food Recipes With Few Ingredients
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g spaghetti; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 50ml olive oil; 1 tsp red pepper flakes; Fresh parsley, chopped; Salt to taste; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 carrot, julienned; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp sesame oil; Sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Kitchen Wins

I love whipping up meals that require minimal ingredients but pack a punch in flavor. These easy food recipes not only simplify my cooking routine but also leave me satisfied and happy. With just a few staple items, I can create a variety of delicious dishes that are perfect for any occasion. Whether I’m busy or just don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen, these recipes always come to my rescue and allow me to enjoy tasty meals without the fuss.

Created by

Charity Bowen

Last updated on 2026-01-22T09:01:18.372Z

Creating meals with fewer ingredients has been a game-changer in my kitchen. I discovered that when I focus on the quality of the ingredients, I can bring out incredible flavors without needing to complicate things. One of my favorites is a simple pasta dish with garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs. Just a few fresh ingredients can elevate a dish from mundane to spectacular.

Another tip that works wonders is to keep your pantry stocked with versatile staples like canned tomatoes, pasta, and spices. This way, I can quickly mix and match what I have on hand, ensuring that I always have a delicious meal ready in no time. Simplicity truly leads to satisfaction!

Why You'll Love These Recipes
Saves time with minimal prep and cooking
Relies on fresh, wholesome ingredients
Perfect for beginners looking for easy cooking options

Enhancing Flavor with Garlic

Garlic is not just a flavor enhancer; it serves as the backbone of the Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil. When sautéed in olive oil, garlic releases aromatic compounds that elevate the dish's overall appeal. To ensure the garlic doesn’t burn, keep the heat at medium and watch carefully—once it turns golden, it’s time to add the pasta. This balance is crucial because burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste, ruining your dish.

Moreover, you can experiment with roasted garlic for a sweeter and mellower flavor profile. Simply roast whole garlic cloves in the oven until soft and caramelized, then mash and blend it with the olive oil for a different depth of flavor that complements the spaghetti beautifully.

Perfecting the Veggie Stir-Fry

When stir-frying vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots, the goal is to achieve a tender-crisp texture while retaining vibrant color. Start by preheating your pan or wok until it’s hot, then add the sesame oil. This high heat is essential for searing the veggies quickly, locking in their nutrients and flavor. Aim for about 5 minutes of tossing and stirring to maintain this ideal texture.

If you find the stir-fry lacking in flavor, a splash of additional soy sauce or a pinch of salt can enhance the overall taste. You might also consider adding a sprinkle of ginger or garlic during cooking for an extra kick that complements the vegetables perfectly. If you're feeling adventurous, toss in a handful of nuts like cashews for a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil

200g spaghetti
4 cloves garlic, minced
50ml olive oil
1 tsp red pepper flakes
Fresh parsley, chopped
Salt to taste

Simple Veggie Stir-Fry

1 cup broccoli florets
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 carrot, julienned
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil
Sesame seeds for garnish

Preparation Steps

Instructions

Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil

1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. 2. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant. 3. Toss the cooked pasta in the pan with the garlic oil, adding salt and fresh parsley. Serve warm.

Simple Veggie Stir-Fry

1. In a hot pan or wok, add sesame oil. 2. Toss in the broccoli, bell pepper, and carrot, stir-frying for about 5 minutes or until tender-crisp. 3. Add soy sauce and mix well. Serve hot, sprinkled with sesame seeds.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

Experiment with your favorite vegetables or proteins to customize each dish. Don't hesitate to add your own flair with herbs or spices depending on your taste preferences.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Both the Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil and the Simple Veggie Stir-Fry can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. To retain texture, consider storing the pasta and stir-fried veggies separately. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat for even warming instead of microwaving, which can lead to a soggy texture.

For the pasta, you might want to add a splash of olive oil or a teaspoon of water while reheating to revive the dish's glossy finish. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking; just warm until heated through, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving the Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil as a delightful side dish alongside grilled proteins like chicken or shrimp. The simplicity and full flavor of the pasta enhance rather than overpower the main dish, making it a perfect pairing. You can also top it with grated Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon for added zest.

For the Simple Veggie Stir-Fry, consider serving it over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs or sliced green onions just before serving can elevate it visually and bring freshness to every bite. These simple enhancements make your plate vibrant and appealing!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these recipes vegetarian?

Absolutely! Both recipes are naturally vegetarian-friendly. You can also substitute proteins with tofu or other plant-based options.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

→ What other ingredients can I add to these recipes?

Feel free to include any seasonal veggies, chicken, or shrimp to make the dishes heartier.

→ Are these recipes suitable for meal prep?

Yes! These meals can be easily portioned and stored, making them great options for meal prepping.