Simple, Wholesome Meals for Busy Days

It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, and sometimes finding the time to prepare a nutritious meal can feel overwhelming. However, simple, wholesome recipes can help make dinner time less stressful while ensuring your family enjoys healthy and delicious food cooked right in your kitchen here at Settler’s Square. Here are some easy meal ideas designed for even the busiest days:

Quick One-Pan Pasta Primavera

A light and flavorful dish packed with veggies that comes together in no time.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup zucchini or summer squash, diced
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and peas. Cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.
4. Toss the cooked pasta with the veggies in the skillet. Add a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper, and serve warm.

Sheet Pan Chicken and Vegetables

A complete, nutritious meal with minimal cleanup—perfect for weeknights.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs or breasts
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers work well)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange chicken and vegetables on a sheet pan. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
4. Serve immediately, or pack leftovers for an easy lunch.

Homemade Lentil Soup

This hearty soup is rich in protein and fiber, making it a satisfying meal for busy evenings.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken stock
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
2. Stir in lentils, stock, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.

Tips for Quick and Healthy Meals:

• Prep Ahead: Chop vegetables, marinate proteins, or cook grains in advance to save time during the week.
• Use One-Pan or One-Pot Recipes: These save both time and cleanup effort.
• Batch Cook and Freeze: Make double portions and freeze leftovers for future busy nights.

Eating well doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. These simple, wholesome recipes will help you stay nourished and satisfied, even on your busiest days!

About Settler’s Square

In name and value, Settlers Square honors the rich pioneering history of Enoch, Utah. Even though Enoch is now the second largest community in Iron County, it continues to maintain the charm of a small town. Settlers Square offers pre-built, semi-customer, or fully customized homes by Alex Meisner Construction. Choose the lot, floorplan, and design package that’s perfect for you! Contact Jenny Vossler, ERA Realty Center, at 435-559-1260 or [email protected] for more information.