Simple and Healthy Recipes with Minimal Ingredients

Creating delicious and healthy meals doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. These simple recipes are packed with flavor and nutrients, requiring minimal ingredients to make. Perfect for busy days or when you're short on ingredients but long on craving healthful and satisfying meals.

1. Avocado Toast with Egg

A quick and healthy breakfast or snack option that's perfect for when you need a filling yet nutritious meal.

Ingredients

1 ripe avocado 1 slice whole-grain bread 1 egg Salt and pepper, to taste (Optional) chili flakes, lemon juice, fresh herbs like cilantro

Instructions

Toast the slice of bread until golden and crispy. While the bread is toasting, mash the avocado in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper and a squeeze of lemon juice (optional). Cook the egg to your preference: fried, poached, or scrambled. Spread the mashed avocado on the toast. Top with the cooked egg and sprinkle with chili flakes or herbs if desired.

2. Greek Yogurt with Honey and Walnuts

A delicious, satisfying snack or dessert that's both healthy and indulgent.

Ingredients

1 cup plain Greek yogurt 1 tablespoon honey A handful of walnuts or any other nut of your choice (Optional) a sprinkle of cinnamon, or fresh berries

Instructions

Spoon the Greek yogurt into a bowl. Drizzle honey over the yogurt. Top with walnuts and optional cinnamon or fresh berries. Mix together and enjoy!

3. Chickpea Salad

A light and refreshing salad that's full of protein, perfect for a quick, hearty meal or snack.

Ingredients

1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed 1 cucumber, diced 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon lemon juice Salt and pepper, to taste (Optional) chopped parsley, or feta cheese

Instructions

In a bowl, combine the chickpeas and diced cucumber. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the mixture. Season with salt and pepper. Toss to combine and garnish with parsley or feta cheese (if desired).

4. Baked Sweet Potatoes

A nutritious, satisfying side dish or light meal that’s oven-friendly and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

2 medium sweet potatoes Olive oil Salt and pepper

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the sweet potatoes and prick them with a fork. Rub them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Slice open the sweet potatoes and top with optional toppings like Greek yogurt, black beans, or greens for a more filling meal.

5. Garlic Sautéed Spinach

A simple, nutrient-dense side dish that is ready in minutes. Nutrient-packed and flavorful, this recipe is perfect for a quick and hearty meal.

Ingredients

4 cups fresh spinach 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon olive oil Salt and pepper, to taste (Optional) a squeeze of lemon juice

Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the spinach and cook, stirring for about 2-3 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and pepper. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice (if desired).

6. Egg and Veggie Stir-Fry

A quick and healthy way to get in some vegetables and protein. This recipe is perfect for a light meal or a meal prep option.

Ingredients

2 eggs 1 cup mixed veggies (frozen or fresh, such as bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli) 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 teaspoon olive oil or sesame oil Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the mixed veggies and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender. PUSH the veggies to one side of the pan. Crack the eggs into the other side and scramble them until cooked. Stir the veggies and eggs together and add soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

7. Banana Oat Cookies

A healthy, 3-ingredient treat perfect for a quick snack. Nutritious and delicious, these cookies are a great way to satisfy a sweet tooth.

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas 1 cup oats 1/2 cup raisins or dark chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Cream the bananas in a bowl until smooth. Add the oats and mix well. Incorporate the raisins or dark chocolate chips (if using) and fold until fully coated. Mold the mixture into cookies and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Cook the cookies on a non-stick pan or a lined baking sheet for about 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden and slightly firm.

These simple recipes not only encourage a healthier lifestyle but also make meal preparation more exciting and less daunting. Try them out and see which one becomes a new favorite in your kitchen.