Dinner Recipes by Ingredients: A Culinary Guide

Description

Planning  a  delicious  dinner  can  feel  overwhelming,  especially  when  you’re  staring  at  a  pantry  full  of  ingredients  and  no  clear  direction.  But  fear  not,  culinary  enthusiasts!  This  comprehensive  guide  will  empower  you  to  transform  your  kitchen  into  a  haven  of  flavorful  possibilities.  We’ll  explore  a  diverse  range  of  dinner  recipes  categorized  by  common  ingredients,  offering  inspiration  for  every  taste  and  dietary  preference.  Get  ready  to  unlock  your  culinary  potential  and  create  mouthwatering  meals  with  ease!

Meat-Based Delights

Chicken

Chicken  is  a  versatile  protein  that  lends  itself  to  countless  culinary  creations.  From  quick  weeknight  dinners  to  elaborate  Sunday  roasts,  the  possibilities  are  endless.

One-Pan  Chicken  with  Roasted  Vegetables

This  simple  and  satisfying  dish  combines  juicy  chicken  with  your  favorite  seasonal  vegetables.  Simply  toss  everything  on  a  baking  sheet  and  bake  until  tender.

  • 1  pound  boneless,  skinless  chicken  breasts,  cut  into  1-inch  pieces
  • 1  tablespoon  olive  oil
  • 1/2  cup  chopped  onion
  • 1  cup  chopped  carrots
  • 1  cup  chopped  broccoli  florets
  • 1/2  teaspoon  salt
  • 1/4  teaspoon  black  pepper

Preheat  oven  to  400°F  (200°C).  In  a  large  bowl,  combine  chicken,  olive  oil,  onion,  carrots,  broccoli,  salt,  and  pepper.  Spread  the  mixture  evenly  on  a  baking  sheet.  Roast  for  20-25  minutes,  or  until  chicken  is  cooked  through  and  vegetables  are  tender.

Creamy  Chicken  and  Mushroom  Pasta

A  comforting  and  flavorful  dish  that  is  perfect  for  a  cozy  evening.  The  creamy  sauce  complements  the  chicken  and  mushrooms  beautifully.

  • 1  pound  boneless,  skinless  chicken  breasts,  cut  into  bite-sized  pieces
  • 1  tablespoon  olive  oil
  • 1/2  cup  chopped  onion
  • 1  cup  sliced  mushrooms
  • 2  cloves  garlic,  minced
  • 1/2  cup  dry  white  wine  (optional)
  • 1  cup  heavy  cream
  • 1/2  cup  grated  Parmesan  cheese
  • 1/4  teaspoon  salt
  • 1/4  teaspoon  black  pepper
  • 1  pound  pasta  (such  as  penne  or  fettuccine)
  • Fresh  parsley,  for  garnish

Cook  the  pasta  according  to  package  directions.  While  the  pasta  cooks,  heat  the  olive  oil  in  a  large  skillet  over  medium  heat.  Add  the  chicken  and  cook  until  browned  on  all  sides.  Remove  the  chicken  from  the  skillet  and  set  aside.  Add  the  onion  and  mushrooms  to  the  skillet  and  cook  until  softened.  Add  the  garlic  and  cook  for  1  minute.  If  using,  add  the  white  wine  and  simmer  for  1  minute.  Stir  in  the  heavy  cream,  Parmesan  cheese,  salt,  and  pepper.  Bring  the  sauce  to  a  simmer  and  cook  until  slightly  thickened.  Return  the  chicken  to  the  skillet  and  cook  until  heated  through.  Serve  over  the  cooked  pasta  and  garnish  with  fresh  parsley.

Beef

Beef  is  a  hearty  and  flavorful  protein  that  can  be  the  centerpiece  of  many  dinner  recipes.  From  juicy  steaks  to  comforting  stews,  there’s  a  beef  dish  for  every  occasion.

Beef  Stir-Fry  with  Vegetables

A  quick  and  easy  stir-fry  that’s  packed  with  flavor  and  nutrients.  The  beef  is  seared  to  perfection  and  combined  with  colorful  vegetables.

  • 1  pound  flank  steak,  thinly  sliced
  • 1  tablespoon  soy  sauce
  • 1  tablespoon  cornstarch
  • 1  tablespoon  sesame  oil
  • 1  tablespoon  vegetable  oil
  • 1/2  cup  chopped  onion
  • 1  cup  sliced  bell  peppers  (any  color)
  • 1  cup  broccoli  florets
  • 1/4  cup  soy  sauce
  • 2  tablespoons  honey
  • 1  tablespoon  rice  vinegar
  • 1/2  teaspoon  ground  ginger
  • 1/4  teaspoon  black  pepper
  • Cooked  rice,  for  serving

In  a  bowl,  combine  the  flank  steak,  soy  sauce,  cornstarch,  and  sesame  oil.  Marinate  for  15  minutes.  Heat  the  vegetable  oil  in  a  large  skillet  or  wok  over  high  heat.  Add  the  marinated  steak  and  cook  for  2-3  minutes  per  side,  or  until  seared  and  cooked  through.  Remove  the  steak  from  the  skillet  and  set  aside.  Add  the  onion,  bell  peppers,  and  broccoli  to  the  skillet  and  cook  for  5  minutes,  or  until  tender-crisp.  In  a  small  bowl,  whisk  together  the  soy  sauce,  honey,  rice  vinegar,  ginger,  and  black  pepper.  Pour  the  sauce  into  the  skillet  and  bring  to  a  simmer.  Return  the  steak  to  the  skillet  and  cook  for  1  minute,  or  until  heated  through.  Serve  over  cooked  rice.

Beef  and  Bean  Chili

A  classic  comfort  food  that’s  perfect  for  a  cold  winter  night.  This  chili  is  packed  with  protein,  fiber,  and  flavor.

  • 1  pound  ground  beef
  • 1  onion,  chopped
  • 1  green  bell  pepper,  chopped
  • 2  cloves  garlic,  minced
  • 1  (15-ounce)  can  kidney  beans,  drained  and  rinsed
  • 1  (15-ounce)  can  pinto  beans,  drained  and  rinsed
  • 1  (15-ounce)  can  diced  tomatoes,  undrained
  • 1  (15-ounce)  can  tomato  sauce
  • 1  tablespoon  chili  powder
  • 1  teaspoon  cumin
  • 1/2  teaspoon  oregano
  • 1/4  teaspoon  cayenne  pepper  (optional)
  • 1/2  teaspoon  salt
  • 1/4  teaspoon  black  pepper

In  a  large  pot  or  Dutch  oven,  brown  the  ground  beef  over  medium  heat.  Drain  off  any  excess  fat.  Add  the  onion,  green  pepper,  and  garlic  to  the  pot  and  cook  until  softened,  about  5  minutes.  Stir  in  the  kidney  beans,  pinto  beans,  diced  tomatoes,  tomato  sauce,  chili  powder,  cumin,  oregano,  cayenne  pepper  (if  using),  salt,  and  black  pepper.  Bring  the  chili  to  a  boil,  then  reduce  heat  and  simmer  for  30  minutes,  or  until  flavors  have  blended.  Serve  with  your  favorite  toppings,  such  as  shredded  cheese,  sour  cream,  and  chopped  onions.

Seafood Delights

Salmon

Salmon  is  a  rich  source  of  omega-3  fatty  acids  and  boasts  a  delicate  flavor  that  pairs  well  with  a  variety  of  ingredients.

Baked  Salmon  with  Lemon  and  Dill

A  simple  and  elegant  recipe  that  showcases  the  natural  flavor  of  salmon.  The  lemon  and  dill  add  a  refreshing  twist.

  • 1  pound  salmon  fillets
  • 1  tablespoon  olive  oil
  • 1/4  cup  chopped  fresh  dill
  • 1  lemon,  thinly  sliced
  • 1/4  teaspoon  salt
  • 1/4  teaspoon  black  pepper

Preheat  oven  to  400°F  (200°C).  Place  the  salmon  fillets  in  a  baking  dish.  Drizzle  with  olive  oil  and  sprinkle  with  dill,  salt,  and  pepper.  Arrange  the  lemon  slices  over  the  salmon.  Bake  for  12-15  minutes,  or  until  the  salmon  is  cooked  through.

Salmon  Tacos  with  Mango  Salsa

A  fun  and  flavorful  twist  on  traditional  tacos.  The  sweet  mango  salsa  adds  a  tropical  touch  to  the  smoky  salmon.

  • 1  pound  salmon  fillets
  • 1  tablespoon  olive  oil
  • 1/2  teaspoon  salt
  • 1/4  teaspoon  black  pepper
  • 1  ripe  mango,  diced
  • 1/2  red  onion,  diced
  • 1/4  cup  chopped  fresh  cilantro
  • 2  tablespoons  lime  juice
  • 1/2  teaspoon  salt
  • 1/4  teaspoon  black  pepper
  • 12  corn  tortillas

Preheat  oven  to  400°F  (200°C).  Place  the  salmon  fillets  on  a  baking  sheet.  Drizzle  with  olive  oil  and  sprinkle  with  salt  and  pepper.  Bake  for  12-15  minutes,  or  until  the  salmon  is  cooked  through.  While  the  salmon  bakes,  make  the  mango  salsa.  In  a  bowl,  combine  the  mango,  red  onion,  cilantro,  lime  juice,  salt,  and  pepper.  Toss  to  combine.  Warm  the  tortillas  in  a  skillet  or  microwave.  Serve  the  salmon  on  the  tortillas  with  the  mango  salsa.

Shrimp

Shrimp  is  a  quick-cooking  protein  that’s  perfect  for  busy  weeknights.  It  absorbs  flavors  beautifully  and  can  be  prepared  in  countless  ways.

Garlic  Butter  Shrimp  Scampi

A  classic  Italian  dish  that’s  full  of  flavor  and  easy  to  prepare.  The  shrimp  are  cooked  in  a  garlicky  butter  sauce  and  served  over  pasta.

  • 1  pound  large  shrimp,  peeled  and  deveined
  • 4  tablespoons  butter
  • 4  cloves  garlic,  minced
  • 1/4  cup  dry  white  wine
  • 1/4  cup  chopped  fresh  parsley
  • 1/4  teaspoon  salt
  • 1/4  teaspoon  black  pepper
  • 1  pound  pasta  (such  as  linguine  or  fettuccine)

Cook  the  pasta  according  to  package  directions.  While  the  pasta  cooks,  melt  the  butter  in  a  large  skillet  over  medium  heat.  Add  the  garlic  and  cook  until  fragrant,  about  1  minute.  Pour  in  the  white  wine  and  bring  to  a  simmer.  Add  the  shrimp  and  cook  until  pink  and  opaque,  about  2-3  minutes.  Stir  in  the  parsley,  salt,  and  pepper.  Serve  the  shrimp  scampi  over  the  cooked  pasta.

Shrimp  and  Avocado  Salad

A  refreshing  and  healthy  salad  that’s  perfect  for  a  light  summer  meal.  The  shrimp  and  avocado  provide  a  satisfying  combination  of  protein  and  healthy  fats.

  • 1  pound  large  shrimp,  peeled  and  deveined
  • 1  tablespoon  olive  oil
  • 1/2  teaspoon  salt
  • 1/4  teaspoon  black  pepper
  • 1  ripe  avocado,  diced
  • 1/2  cup  chopped  red  onion
  • 1/4  cup  chopped  fresh  cilantro
  • 2  tablespoons  lime  juice
  • 1/4  cup  chopped  toasted  pecans  (optional)
  • Mixed  greens,  for  serving

Heat  the  olive  oil  in  a  large  skillet  over  medium  heat.  Add  the  shrimp  and  cook  until  pink  and  opaque,  about  2-3  minutes.  Season  with  salt  and  pepper.  In  a  bowl,  combine  the  avocado,  red  onion,  cilantro,  lime  juice,  and  pecans  (if  using).  Toss  to  combine.  Serve  the  shrimp  and  avocado  salad  over  mixed  greens.

Vegetarian Delights

Pasta

Pasta  is  a  versatile  canvas  for  creative  vegetarian  dishes.  From  classic  tomato  sauce  to  creamy  pesto,  there’s  a  pasta  recipe  to  suit  every  palate.

Creamy  Tomato  Pasta  with  Spinach

A  simple  and  satisfying  pasta  dish  that’s  perfect  for  a  quick  weeknight  dinner.  The  creamy  tomato  sauce  is  enhanced  by  the  addition  of  fresh  spinach.

  • 1  tablespoon  olive  oil
  • 1/2  cup  chopped  onion
  • 2  cloves  garlic,  minced
  • 1  (28-ounce)  can  crushed  tomatoes
  • 1/2  cup  heavy  cream
  • 1/4  cup  grated  Parmesan  cheese
  • 1/4  teaspoon  salt
  • 1/4  teaspoon  black  pepper
  • 1  pound  pasta  (such  as  penne  or  rotini)
  • 1  cup  fresh  spinach  leaves

Cook  the  pasta  according  to  package  directions.  While  the  pasta  cooks,  heat  the  olive  oil  in  a  large  skillet  over  medium  heat.  Add  the  onion  and  cook  until  softened,  about  5  minutes.  Add  the  garlic  and  cook  for  1  minute.  Stir  in  the  crushed  tomatoes,  heavy  cream,  Parmesan  cheese,  salt,  and  pepper.  Bring  the  sauce  to  a  simmer  and  cook  for  10  minutes,  or  until  thickened.  Add  the  spinach  to  the  sauce  and  cook  until  wilted,  about  1  minute.  Serve  the  sauce  over  the  cooked  pasta.

Pesto  Pasta  with  Roasted  Vegetables

A  vibrant  and  flavorful  pasta  dish  that’s  packed  with  nutrients.  The  roasted  vegetables  add  a  smoky  sweetness  to  the  pesto  sauce.

  • 1  pound  pasta  (such  as  penne  or  rotini)
  • 1  tablespoon  olive  oil
  • 1  cup  chopped  broccoli  florets
  • 1  cup  chopped  carrots
  • 1/2  cup  chopped  red  onion
  • 1/4  teaspoon  salt
  • 1/4  teaspoon  black  pepper
  • 1/2  cup  pesto
  • 1/4  cup  grated  Parmesan  cheese

Preheat  oven  to  400°F  (200°C).  In  a  large  bowl,  combine  the  broccoli,  carrots,  red  onion,  olive  oil,  salt,  and  pepper.  Spread  the  mixture  evenly  on  a  baking  sheet.  Roast  for  20-25  minutes,  or  until  the  vegetables  are  tender.  Cook  the  pasta  according  to  package  directions.  While  the  pasta  cooks,  prepare  the  pesto  sauce.  In  a  bowl,  combine  the  pesto  and  Parmesan  cheese.  Toss  to  combine.  Drain  the  pasta  and  add  it  to  the  pesto  sauce.  Add  the  roasted  vegetables  and  toss  to  combine.  Serve  immediately.

Rice

Rice  is  a  versatile  and  affordable  ingredient  that  can  be  the  foundation  of  many  delicious  vegetarian  dinners.

Vegetable  Fried  Rice

A  classic  Asian-inspired  dish  that’s  packed  with  flavor  and  nutrients.  The  rice  is  stir-fried  with  a  variety  of  vegetables  and  seasoned  with  soy  sauce  and  sesame  oil.

  • 2  cups  cooked  rice
  • 1  tablespoon  vegetable  oil
  • 1/2  cup  chopped  onion
  • 1  cup  sliced  carrots
  • 1  cup  broccoli  florets
  • 1/2  cup  frozen  peas
  • 1/4  cup  soy  sauce
  • 1  tablespoon  sesame  oil
  • 1/2  teaspoon  ground  ginger
  • 1/4  teaspoon  black  pepper

Heat  the  vegetable  oil  in  a  large  skillet  or  wok  over  medium  heat.  Add  the  onion  and  cook  until  softened,  about  5  minutes.  Add  the  carrots,  broccoli,  and  peas  and  cook  for  5  minutes,  or  until  tender-crisp.  Stir  in  the  cooked  rice,  soy  sauce,  sesame  oil,  ginger,  and  black  pepper.  Cook  for  2-3  minutes,  or  until  heated  through.  Serve  immediately.

Rice  Pilaf  with  Herbs  and  Lemon

A  fragrant  and  flavorful  rice  pilaf  that’s  perfect  as  a  side  dish  or  as  a  main  course  with  roasted  vegetables  or  grilled  chicken.

  • 1  tablespoon  olive  oil
  • 1/2  cup  chopped  onion
  • 1  cup  long-grain  rice
  • 2  cups  chicken  broth  or  vegetable  broth
  • 1/4  teaspoon  salt
  • 1/4  teaspoon  black  pepper
  • 1/4  cup  chopped  fresh  parsley
  • 1  tablespoon  chopped  fresh  dill
  • 1  lemon,  zested  and  juiced

Heat  the  olive  oil  in  a  large  pot  or  Dutch  oven  over  medium  heat.  Add  the  onion  and  cook  until  softened,  about  5  minutes.  Stir  in  the  rice  and  cook  for  1  minute,  or  until  toasted.  Add  the  broth,  salt,  and  pepper.  Bring  to  a  boil,  then  reduce  heat  to  low,  cover,  and  simmer  for  15  minutes,  or  until  the  rice  is  cooked  through  and  the  liquid  is  absorbed.  Stir  in  the  parsley,  dill,  lemon  zest,  and  lemon  juice.  Serve  immediately.

Potatoes

Potatoes  are  a  staple  ingredient  in  many  cuisines,  offering  a  versatile  and  comforting  flavor.

Roasted  Potatoes  with  Garlic  and  Rosemary

A  simple  and  flavorful  side  dish  that’s  perfect  with  any  roast  or  grilled  meat.  The  potatoes  are  roasted  until  crispy  on  the  outside  and  fluffy  on  the  inside.

  • 2  pounds  potatoes,  peeled  and  cut  into  1-inch  cubes
  • 1/4  cup  olive  oil
  • 2  cloves  garlic,  minced
  • 1  tablespoon  chopped  fresh  rosemary
  • 1/2  teaspoon  salt
  • 1/4  teaspoon  black  pepper

Preheat  oven  to  400°F  (200°C).  In  a  large  bowl,  combine  the  potatoes,  olive  oil,  garlic,  rosemary,  salt,  and  pepper.  Toss  to  combine.  Spread  the  potatoes  evenly  on  a  baking  sheet.  Roast  for  30-40  minutes,  or  until  the  potatoes  are  golden  brown  and  crispy.

Potato  and  Leek  Soup

A  comforting  and  flavorful  soup  that’s  perfect  for  a  cold  winter  day.  The  potatoes  and  leeks  create  a  creamy  and  delicious  broth.

  • 1  tablespoon  olive  oil
  • 1  large  leek,  white  and  light  green  parts  only,  thinly  sliced
  • 2  cloves  garlic,  minced
  • 4  cups  vegetable  broth
  • 1  pound  potatoes,  peeled  and  diced
  • 1/2  teaspoon  salt
  • 1/4  teaspoon  black  pepper
  • 1/4  cup  chopped  fresh  parsley,  for  garnish

Heat  the  olive  oil  in  a  large  pot  or  Dutch  oven  over  medium  heat.  Add  the  leek  and  cook  until  softened,  about  5  minutes.  Add  the  garlic  and  cook  for  1  minute.  Pour  in  the  vegetable  broth  and  add  the  potatoes,  salt,  and  pepper.  Bring  the  soup  to  a  boil,  then  reduce  heat  and  simmer  for  20-25  minutes,  or  until  the  potatoes  are  tender.  Use  an  immersion  blender  to  blend  the  soup  until  smooth,  or  transfer  the  soup  to  a  regular  blender  and  blend  in  batches  (be  careful  when  blending  hot  liquids).  Serve  the  soup  garnished  with  fresh  parsley.

Sweet and Savory Sides

Broccoli

Broccoli  is  a  nutritious  vegetable  that’s  packed  with  vitamins  and  minerals.  It  can  be  enjoyed  as  a  side  dish  or  incorporated  into  a  variety  of  main  courses.

Roasted  Broccoli  with  Parmesan  and  Garlic

A  simple  and  flavorful  way  to  prepare  broccoli.  The  Parmesan  cheese  and  garlic  add  a  savory  richness.

  • 1  head  broccoli,  cut  into  florets
  • 1  tablespoon  olive  oil
  • 2  cloves  garlic,  minced
  • 1/4  cup  grated  Parmesan  cheese
  • 1/4  teaspoon  salt
  • 1/4  teaspoon  black  pepper

Preheat  oven  to  400°F  (200°C).  In  a  large  bowl,  combine  the  broccoli,  olive  oil,  garlic,  Parmesan  cheese,  salt,  and  pepper.  Toss  to  combine.  Spread  the  broccoli  evenly  on  a  baking  sheet.  Roast  for  15-20  minutes,  or  until  the  broccoli  is  tender  and  slightly  browned.

Broccoli  Salad  with  Bacon  and  Grapes

A  classic  side  dish  that’s  perfect  for  potlucks  and  picnics.  The  broccoli  is  combined  with  bacon,  grapes,  and  a  creamy  dressing.

  • 1  head  broccoli,  cut  into  florets
  • 1/2  cup  chopped  bacon
  • 1  cup  red  grapes,  halved
  • 1/2  cup  mayonnaise
  • 1/4  cup  sour  cream
  • 1/4  cup  sugar
  • 1/4  teaspoon  salt
  • 1/4  teaspoon  black  pepper

Cook  the  broccoli  florets  in  boiling  water  for  3-5  minutes,  or  until  tender-  crisp.  Drain  and  set  aside.  In  a  large  bowl,  combine  the  bacon,  grapes,  mayonnaise,  sour  cream,  sugar,  salt,  and  pepper.  Toss  to  combine.  Add  the  broccoli  and  toss  again.  Chill  the  salad  for  at  least  30  minutes  before  serving.

Carrots

Carrots  are  a  versatile  and  nutritious  vegetable  that  can  be  enjoyed  in  a  variety  of  ways.

Glazed  Carrots

A  simple  and  flavorful  side  dish  that’s  perfect  with  roasted  chicken  or  pork.  The  carrots  are  glazed  with  honey  and  butter  for  a  sweet  and  savory  flavor.

  • 1  pound  carrots,  peeled  and  cut  into  1-inch  pieces
  • 2  tablespoons  butter
  • 2  tablespoons  honey
  • 1/4  teaspoon  salt
  • 1/4  teaspoon  black  pepper
  • 1/4  teaspoon  ground  ginger  (optional)

In  a  large  saucepan  or  Dutch  oven,  melt  the  butter  over  medium  heat.  Add  the  carrots,  honey,  salt,  pepper,  and  ginger  (if  using).  Cook  for  10-15  minutes,  or  until  the  carrots  are  tender  and  glazed.

Carrot  and  Ginger  Soup

A  refreshing  and  flavorful  soup  that’s  packed  with  nutrients.  The  ginger  adds  a  warm  and  spicy  kick  to  the  sweet  carrots.

  • 1  tablespoon  olive  oil
  • 1  large  onion,  chopped
  • 2  cloves  garlic,  minced
  • 1  inch  fresh  ginger,  peeled  and  grated
  • 4  cups  vegetable  broth
  • 1  pound  carrots,  peeled  and  chopped
  • 1/2  teaspoon  salt
  • 1/4  teaspoon  black  pepper
  • 1/4  cup  chopped  fresh  cilantro,  for  garnish

Heat  the  olive  oil  in  a  large  pot  or  Dutch  oven  over  medium  heat.  Add  the  onion  and  cook  until  softened,  about  5  minutes.  Add  the  garlic  and  ginger  and  cook  for  1  minute.  Pour  in  the  vegetable  broth  and  add  the  carrots,  salt,  and  pepper.  Bring  the  soup  to  a  boil,  then  reduce  heat  and  simmer  for  20-25  minutes,  or  until  the  carrots  are  tender.  Use  an  immersion  blender  to  blend  the  soup  until  smooth,  or  transfer  the  soup  to  a  regular  blender  and  blend  in  batches  (be  careful  when  blending  hot  liquids).  Serve  the  soup  garnished  with  fresh  cilantro.

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