Top 10 Healthy Dinners with Minimal Ingredients

Simplicity in cooking can often lead to the most satisfying and wholesome meals, especially when it comes to maintaining a healthy diet. To streamline your dinner routine, we’ve curated the top ten healthy dinners that require minimal ingredients yet deliver maximum flavor and nutrition. These recipes are designed to be straightforward and efficient, featuring essential ingredients that come together to create delicious and balanced meals. Perfect for busy weeknights or anyone looking to simplify their cooking, these dinners demonstrate that you don’t need an extensive list of ingredients to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal.

Smoked mackerel & leek hash with horseradish

Smoked Mackerel & Leek Hash with Horseradish is a nutritious and satisfying dinner that requires minimal ingredients and delivers big on flavor. This simple yet elegant dish combines smoky mackerel with tender leeks and a touch of horseradish for a flavorful and healthy meal. Perfect for a quick, wholesome dinner, it’s an easy way to enjoy a balanced meal with minimal fuss.

Ingredients
2 smoked mackerel fillets, skin removed and flaked
2 large leeks, trimmed and sliced
2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh horseradish, grated (or 1 tsp prepared horseradish)
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
1. Cook Potatoes: Boil diced potatoes in salted water for about 10 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare Leeks: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced leeks and cook until softened about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked potatoes to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the potatoes to crisp up slightly.
5. Add Mackerel and Horseradish: Gently fold in the flaked mackerel and grated horseradish. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until mackerel is heated through and well combined with the other ingredients. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Beetroot, hummus & crispy chickpea sub sandwich

Beetroot, Hummus & Crispy Chickpea Sub Sandwich is a delicious and nutritious dinner option that’s simple to prepare with just a few key ingredients. This vibrant sandwich features roasted beetroot, creamy hummus, and crunchy, spiced chickpeas all piled onto a hearty sub roll. It’s a satisfying and wholesome meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.

Ingredients
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
4 sub rolls or baguettes
1 cup hummus (store-bought or homemade)
1 large beetroot, cooked and sliced
1 cup mixed greens (e.g., spinach, arugula)
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cucumber, sliced
Fresh herbs (e.g., parsley or cilantro) for garnish

Instructions
1. Crispy Chickpeas: Toss chickpeas with olive oil, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until crispy.
2. Assemble Sandwiches: Spread hummus on sub rolls. Add beetroot, greens, onion, cucumber, and crispy chickpeas.
3. Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy!

Cacio e pepe

Cacio e Pepe is a classic Italian dish that’s both simple and satisfying, perfect for a healthy dinner with minimal ingredients. This elegant pasta features a rich blend of just three main ingredients: pasta, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper. Despite its simplicity, it delivers a creamy, flavorful meal that’s quick to prepare and ideal for a nourishing dinner.

Ingredients
12 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice
1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
1 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
2 tbsp unsalted butter (optional)
Salt, to taste

Instructions
1. Cook Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
2. Prepare Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, toast black pepper until fragrant. Add butter (if using) and stir until melted.
3. Combine Pasta and Cheese: Add the hot, drained pasta to the skillet. Gradually stir in the grated Pecorino Romano, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the cheese forms a creamy sauce that coats the pasta.
4. Serve: Season with additional salt if needed. Serve immediately.

Easy kedgeree

Easy Kedgeree is a flavorful and nutritious dinner that comes together with minimal ingredients. This classic British dish combines flaky fish, aromatic spices, and tender rice, creating a comforting and wholesome meal. Quick to prepare and packed with protein, it’s a perfect choice for a satisfying dinner that’s both simple and delicious.

Ingredients
1 cup basmati rice
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup cooked flaked white fish (e.g., haddock or cod)
1/2 cup frozen peas
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp curry powder
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions
1. Cook Rice: Rinse rice under cold water. In a saucepan, bring broth to a boil, add rice, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
2. Prepare Vegetables: Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add curry powder and cook for another minute.
3. Combine Ingredients: Stir in cooked fish, peas, and cooked rice. Cook until everything is heated through.
4. Finish and Serve: Gently fold in chopped hard-boiled eggs and fresh parsley (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Saucy bean baked eggs

Saucy Bean Baked Eggs is a hearty and flavorful dinner that’s both easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. This dish features eggs baked in a savory tomato and bean sauce, providing a comforting and nutritious meal. Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a simple yet satisfying option for a wholesome dinner.

Ingredients
1 can (15 oz) baked beans
1/2 cup tomato sauce
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cumin
4 large eggs
1/2 cup shredded cheese (e.g., cheddar or mozzarella)
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions
1. Prepare Sauce: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, combine baked beans, tomato sauce, smoked paprika, and cumin. Stir well.
2. Add Eggs: Make four wells in the bean mixture. Carefully crack an egg into each well.
3. Bake: Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and sprinkle cheese on top. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until eggs are set to your liking.
4. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired. Serve warm.

Peanut butter & jam flapjacks

Peanut Butter & Jam Flapjacks are a delightful and easy dinner option that’s both nutritious and simple to make. These bars combine the rich flavors of peanut butter and fruity jam with wholesome oats, creating a satisfying and wholesome meal or snack. Perfect for a quick and tasty dinner with minimal ingredients, they’re a delicious way to enjoy a comforting treat.

Ingredients
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup jam (e.g., strawberry or raspberry)
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Pinch of salt

Instructions
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt Ingredients: In a saucepan, melt butter, peanut butter, and honey over medium heat until smooth. Remove from heat.
3. Combine: Stir in oats, salt, and nuts (if using) until well combined.
4. Press and Bake: Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Drop spoonful’s of jam over the top and swirl with a knife.
5. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.

Gnocchi cacio e pepe

Gnocchi Cacio e Pepe is a delightful twist on the classic Italian pasta dish, made with minimal ingredients for a quick and satisfying meal. This dish features soft, pillowy gnocchi coated in a creamy, peppery cheese sauce, delivering a rich and comforting flavor. Simple yet elegant, it’s perfect for a healthy dinner that’s both easy to prepare and full of taste.

Ingredients
1 lb gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 cup pasta cooking water (reserve before draining)

Instructions
1. Cook Gnocchi: Boil gnocchi according to package instructions until they float. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain and set aside.
2. Make Sauce: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add black pepper and cook for 1 minute.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add cooked gnocchi to the skillet, tossing to coat with the butter and pepper. Gradually add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
4. Add Cheese: Stir in Pecorino Romano and Parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy.
5. Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with additional black pepper and cheese if desired.

Creamy pesto & kale pasta

Creamy Pesto & Kale Pasta is a nutritious and delicious dinner that’s both simple and satisfying. This dish features tender pasta tossed in a rich, creamy pesto sauce, complemented by nutrient-packed kale. With minimal ingredients, it offers a quick and wholesome meal that combines vibrant flavors and healthy greens for a comforting and easy dinner.

Ingredients
12 oz pasta (e.g., penne or fettuccine)
2 cups fresh kale, chopped
1 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions
1. Cook Pasta: Boil pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta cooking water, then drain.
2. Sauté Kale: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Make Sauce: Stir in pesto and heavy cream. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to heat through and combine.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
5. Add Cheese: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Smoked salmon & spinach gratin

Smoked Salmon & Spinach Gratin is a flavorful and elegant dinner that’s both simple to prepare and packed with nutritious ingredients. This dish features tender smoked salmon and fresh spinach baked in a creamy, savory sauce. With just a few key ingredients, it provides a satisfying and wholesome meal that’s perfect for a healthy and easy dinner.

Ingredients
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
8 oz smoked salmon, flaked
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp dried dill
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Instructions
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Sauté Spinach: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.
3. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine heavy cream, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix in the cooked spinach and flaked salmon.
4. Assemble Gratin: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese for a crispy topping.
5. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Caramelised banana & chocolate galette

Caramelised Banana & Chocolate Galette is a simple yet indulgent dessert that offers a touch of sweetness while keeping things straightforward. This galette features caramelized bananas paired with a rich chocolate filling, all nestled in a crisp, buttery crust. With minimal ingredients, it provides a delightful and wholesome end to your meal without compromising on flavor.

Ingredients
1 1/4 cups flour
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup cold butter
1/4 cup ice water
3 bananas, sliced
1/2 cup chocolate chips
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp butter
1 beaten egg
1 tbsp sugar

Instructions
1. Prepare Dough: Mix flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until dough forms. Chill for 30 minutes.
2. Caramelize Bananas: In a skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter. Add sliced bananas and brown sugar. Cook until bananas are caramelized and syrupy. Let cool.
3. Assemble Galette: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface into a circle. Spread chocolate chips over the center, leaving a border. Top with caramelized bananas. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pleating as needed.
4. Bake: Brush the dough with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly. Allow to cool before serving.