Making Light Work of Dinner

Eating well doesn’t need to be a chore – nourish your body without the fuss with these simple, fresh and quick meal ideas. 

Sometimes the thought of making dinner after a busy day can lead to  the habit of nipping through the drive-through or getting pizza, we all have the occasional lapse.

To make sure you stay on the wholesome healthy path in 2016, we have some great dinner recipes that can be whipped up in a matter of minutes that are light, nutritious and satisfying. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Eggs don’t need to be the domain of the morning – a quick and easy frittata can be made by whisking eggs with milk and frying with a handful of grated cheese and any leftover meat or veg you have on hand (tinned veg such as corn or asparagus works well too) – finish by grilling in the oven and pair with a tomato salad for a super quick and easy meal.

Another handy healthy staple, with a nod to Italy, is a simple supper of sauteed chopped onions, warmed-through drained cannellini beans, tinned tuna, chopped parsley, lemon zest and a squeeze of juice. Sprinkle liberally with olive oil and season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper and, hey presto, there's dinner.

Soft corn tortillas are a good option for gluten-free followers. Fill them with fish fried with onion, ground cumin, ground coriander and dried oregano, and add chopped fresh tomatoes, fresh coriander, jalapenos, avocado and a squeeze of lime for a light, tasty summery dinner.

Large iceberg lettuce leaves can stand in as a healthy replacement for burger buns – fill with lean mince beef, lamb or pork patties or chicken breasts, bacon, tomato, gherkins and all your other favourite burger fillings.  

If you have a spiraliser, whip up courgette and carrot “spaghetti” served with a tasty tomato, basil and garlic sauce. Add chicken for substance.

Check out these other mouthwatering, fresh options to keep week nights simple, fun and appetising:

• Fresh Salmon Spring Rolls
• Watermelon and Prawn Salad
• Pork Fajitas with Tomato and Feta Salsa (pictured above)
• Thai Salmon Cakes with Spicy Capsicum and Cracked Wheat Salad
• Balsamic Roasted Tomato, Olive and Prosciutto Tarts
• Cauliflower, Kale and Mint Tabbouleh 
• Avocado Bruschetta with Smoked Chicken and Mint Salad