Easy Food Recipes With Few Ingredients

Name: Easy Food Recipes With Few Ingredients
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups of mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots); 2 tablespoons of olive oil; 1 teaspoon of salt; 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper; 1 teaspoon of garlic powder; Fresh herbs (e.g., basil or parsley) for garnish

Highlighted under: Speedy Meal Ideas

Cooking can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when you're short on time or ingredients. I believe that creating flavorful dishes doesn't need to be complicated. By focusing on just a few quality ingredients, I've discovered that meals can be both simple and satisfying. This recipe showcases how easy it can be to whip up delicious food without the need for an extensive shopping list or hours in the kitchen. Join me as we explore these easy food recipes that prove deliciousness can be straightforward!

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-01-22T08:01:15.551Z

When I first started cooking, I often found myself overwhelmed by complex recipes filled with hard-to-find ingredients. One day, I challenged myself to make a meal using only a handful of staples from my pantry. The result was a vibrant and tasty dish that changed my approach to cooking forever. By keeping it simple, I was able to highlight the natural flavors of each ingredient.

I've experimented with various combinations over the years, and I've learned that sticking to a few quality ingredients not only saves time but also reduces waste. For this recipe, I recommend using fresh herbs whenever possible, as they can elevate the simplest of meals to a whole new level of flavor!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy preparation that fits into any busy schedule
Minimal ingredients that don’t compromise on flavor
Perfect for home cooks of all skill levels

      

The Importance of Fresh Vegetables

Using fresh vegetables in this recipe not only enhances the flavor but also improves the overall texture of the dish. Vibrant bell peppers add a sweet crunch, while zucchini offers a tender bite. Carrots provide natural sweetness and a satisfying crunch when cooked properly. Always opt for seasonal vegetables when possible, as they tend to be more flavorful and packed with nutrients. If you're in a pinch, feel free to substitute with frozen mixed veggies, but be mindful that they may release more moisture during cooking.

You can also play with your vegetable choices based on personal preference and what you have on hand. Try incorporating broccoli for a hearty crunch, or snap peas for a touch of sweetness. Remember, the key is to cut everything into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking, aiming for a mix that maintains a colorful presentation while providing a great balance of flavors.

Mastering the Sauté Technique

Sautéing is a fundamental cooking technique that helps develop flavor through caramelization. Ensuring your olive oil is sufficiently heated before adding the vegetables is crucial. You want to hear a gentle sizzle when the vegetables hit the pan, indicating that they're cooking correctly. Stir occasionally, making sure the vegetables don't stick or burn, until they are tender yet still retain some crunch, about 10 minutes should suffice. If you notice they're sticking too much, a splash of water can help deglaze the pan too.

Adding seasonings early in the sautéing process allows them to infuse the vegetables with flavor. The garlic powder complements the sweetness of the vegetables beautifully, and the salt helps to draw out moisture, concentrating the flavors. If you prefer a spice kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during cooking; this adds a layer of warmth without overpowering the dish.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

This sautéed vegetable dish is extremely versatile and can be served as a side or a main course. Consider pairing it with grilled chicken, fish, or even over a bed of quinoa for a complete meal. For a creamy texture, a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of cheese can elevate the dish even further. If you’re feeling adventurous, serving it in a taco shell with some avocado and salsa can result in a delightful twist.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheating can be done in a skillet over medium heat to keep the vegetables crisp, or you can microwave them in shorter intervals, stirring often to prevent them from becoming soggy. This recipe also freezes well; simply cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients:

Ingredients

2 cups of mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots)
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
Fresh herbs (e.g., basil or parsley) for garnish

These ingredients will come together to create a delightful dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your meal:

Prepare the vegetables

Wash and chop the mixed vegetables into bite-sized pieces. A colorful mix will not only be more appealing but will also add a variety of nutrients and flavors to your dish.

Sauté the vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped vegetables along with the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant in color.

Serve and enjoy

Once cooked, remove from heat and transfer the sautéed vegetables to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh herbs and enjoy your quick, delicious meal!

Enjoy your meal in just a few simple steps!

Pro Tips

For added flair, try incorporating a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of cheese just before serving to enhance the flavor profile.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're missing any of the main vegetables, don't worry! This recipe is highly adaptable. For instance, green beans or asparagus can be wonderful substitutes for zucchini or bell peppers. Additionally, if garlic powder isn't on hand, freshly minced garlic can be added to the skillet at the onset for a more pronounced flavor. Herbs like thyme or oregano can replace basil or parsley, working equally well in enhancing the dish's freshness.

For those following a low-sodium diet, you can omit the salt or replace it with a salt-free herb blend to introduce more complex flavors without the sodium content. Olive oil can also be swapped with avocado oil or melted coconut oil if preferred, although note that it may slightly alter the flavor profile.

Make-Ahead Prep

This recipe is a great candidate for make-ahead prep. You can chop your vegetables the night before and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, making dinner even quicker to prepare. Just remember to keep the mixed vegetables dry to avoid excess moisture, which can lead to sogginess when cooking. Pre-chopping can also enhance the flavors as it allows them to mingle before the cooking process begins.

If you plan to make a larger batch, consider prepping double the amount. After sautéing, you can store half for later meals. Just make sure to cool the veggies completely before refrigerating or freezing, as this helps maintain their texture and prevents ice crystals from forming.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I add proteins to this recipe?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu can be wonderful additions to make this dish even more filling.

→ What vegetables work best?

You can use any vegetables you prefer or have on hand, such as broccoli, snap peas, or asparagus. Fresh or frozen both work well!

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep! Just prepare the vegetables and store them in portions for easy reheating throughout the week.