Quick and Simple Weeknight Meals

Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Green Beans and Ricotta

Let these simple and quick dishes from Real Simple Best Recipes: Easy, Delicious Meals be your dinnertime solution. Each recipe takes less than 20 minutes from start to finish.

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Crispy Breaded Shrimp with Garlicky Beans

Photo: Kana Okada

Crispy Breaded Shrimp with Garlicky Beans Recipe
Coating the shrimp in breadcrumbs and then baking in a hot oven gives the shrimp a crispy texture and cuts back on the total calories and fat. Assure that everything is ready to eat at the same time by cooking the beans while the shrimp bake.

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Chicken Salad in Radicchio Cups

Photo: Anna Williams

Chicken Salad in Radicchio Cups Recipe
When you don't feel like "cooking," assemble this no-cook, protein-packed salad for a satisfying and flavorful supper. Top with toasted, slivered almonds for added crunch.

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Spiced Lamb Chops and Smashed Peas

Photo: Ngoc Minh Ngo

Spiced Lamb Chops and Smashed Peas Recipe
Searing the chops in a skillet before oven-roasting caramelizes the meat and locks in the juices. Pair the chops with smashed peas flavored with fresh mint and lemon juice for a quick, nutrient-rich side. If the butcher is cutting the chops for you, ask for 1/2-inch thick chops. Thicker ones will take longer to cook.

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Garlicky Broiled Salmon and Tomatoes

Photo: Hector M. Sanchez; Styling: Sara Quessenberry

Garlicky Broiled Salmon and Tomatoes Recipe
Just 15 minutes is all you need to prepare this healthy and satisfying salmon supper. Use simple seasonings like paprika, garlic, and thyme to add fresh flavor without extra calories.

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Angel Hair with Spicy Shrimp

Photo: Anna Williams; Styling: Anna Last

Angel Hair with Spicy Shrimp Recipe
The flavor of this quick pasta dish is enhanced by its simple white wine sauce. For a burst of color and nutrients, toss fresh spinach with the warm pasta before serving then top with grated Parmesan cheese.

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Bean and Sausage Stew

Photo: Michele Michael

Bean and Sausage Stew Recipe
Hearty stew in just 15 minutes sounds too good to be true but it isn't! This stellar 5-star recipe features all of the traditional favorites like beans, tomatoes, sausage, and greens. Kick up the heat by using spicy sausage and hot diced tomatoes.

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Ravioli with Peas and Shallots

Photo: Anna Williams; Styling: Anna Last

Ravioli with Peas and Shallots Recipe
Only 5 ingredients are needed to create this superfast vegetarian entrée. Toss in chopped, cooked chicken breast, cubed ham, or grilled shrimp to add extra protein to the dish.

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Grilled Mahimahi with Grapefruit, Avocado, and Watercress Salad

Photo: Quentin Bacon

Grilled Mahimahi with Grapefruit, Avocado, and Watercress Salad Recipe
Take the basic salad to the next level with this quick main-dish meal that offers a cornucopia of flavors and textures. Feast on the combination of juicy grapefruit, creamy avocado, mild grilled fish, peppery watercress and sweet-tart dressing. Serve with a side of crusty bread to round out the meal.

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Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Green Beans and Ricotta

Photo: Hector M. Sanchez; Styling: Sara Quessenberry

Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Green Beans and Ricotta Recipe
Gnocchi are thick, soft noodles that resemble dumplings and are often made from either semolina or wheat flour or potatoes. Cook refrigerated or frozen gnocchi and toss with 2-ingredient pesto cream sauce. Dollop the finished dish with ricotta cheese for an extra creamy boost.

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Superfast Weeknight Meals from Real Simple

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Crispy Breaded Shrimp with Garlicky Beans