Simply Baked Recipes For A Delicious And Easy Meal
Cesar Chien
Introduction
When it comes to preparing meals, sometimes we just want something that's easy, delicious, and requires minimal effort. That's where "simply baked" recipes come in. These recipes are perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want to whip up something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. In this article, we'll share some of our favorite simply baked recipes that are sure to become staples in your meal rotation.
Ingredients
The beauty of simply baked recipes is that they often require just a handful of ingredients. Here are some common ingredients you'll need for the recipes we'll be sharing: - Chicken breasts or thighs - Fish fillets (such as salmon or cod) - Vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, or green beans) - Potatoes or sweet potatoes - Olive oil - Salt and pepper - Herbs and spices (such as garlic, rosemary, or paprika) - Lemon
Chicken Recipes
One of the most popular simply baked recipes is chicken. Here are two variations that are sure to please:
Garlic and Lemon Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 lemon, juiced - 2 tbsp olive oil - Salt and pepper Instructions: 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together the garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. 3. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them, making sure they are coated evenly. 4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. 5. Serve with your favorite veggies or a side salad.
Balsamic Chicken and Vegetables
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs - 2 cups chopped vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, and onion) - 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar - 2 tbsp olive oil - 2 cloves garlic, minced - Salt and pepper Instructions: 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. 3. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and surround them with the chopped vegetables. 4. Pour the balsamic marinade over the chicken and vegetables, making sure everything is coated. 5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. 6. Serve hot with a side of rice or quinoa.
Fish Recipes
If you're looking for a lighter option, fish is a great choice for simply baked meals. Here are two recipes to try:
Lemon and Herb Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets - 2 tbsp olive oil - 1 lemon, sliced - 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or dill) - Salt and pepper Instructions: 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. 2. Place the salmon fillets in a baking dish and brush them with olive oil. 3. Sprinkle the chopped herbs over the salmon, and then top each fillet with a slice of lemon. 4. Season with salt and pepper. 5. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. 6. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a green salad.
Cod with Roasted Vegetables
- 4 cod fillets - 4 cups chopped vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and onion) - 2 tbsp olive oil - 2 cloves garlic, minced - Salt and pepper Instructions: 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. 2. Toss the chopped vegetables with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. 3. Arrange the vegetables in a baking dish and place the cod fillets on top. 4. Season the cod with salt and pepper. 5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. 6. Serve hot with a side of quinoa or brown rice.
Nutrition
One of the great things about simply baked recipes is that they can be healthy and nutritious. By using lean proteins like chicken and fish, and incorporating plenty of vegetables, you can create a meal that is balanced and satisfying. Here are some general nutrition tips to keep in mind: - Aim to fill half of your plate with veggies. - Choose lean proteins, such as chicken breast or fish, and avoid fatty cuts of meat. - Use healthy fats, such as olive oil, in moderation. - Limit your intake of processed foods and refined sugars. By following these guidelines, you can create simply baked meals that are not only delicious, but also good for you.
Conclusion
Whether you're a busy parent or just looking for a quick and easy meal, simply baked recipes are a great option. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a delicious and nutritious meal that the whole family will love. Give these recipes a try, and feel free to experiment with different proteins, veggies, and seasonings to create your own unique dishes. Happy cooking!