Simplify Evenings: Four Quick Dinner Ideas for Back-to-School

As families transition into the new academic year, the return to structured routines can be both exciting and overwhelming. With children heading back to school, parents are often faced with the challenge of managing homework, extracurricular activities, and meal planning. To alleviate some of this stress, here are four quick and easy dinner ideas that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, ensuring that family meals remain a priority during busy weeknights.

Fettuccini with Peas and Parmesan

A simple yet delightful dish from renowned chef Jacques Pepin, this fettuccini recipe is perfect for busy evenings. Featured in his upcoming book, “The Art of Jacques Pepin: The Cookbook,” this meal requires minimal ingredients and can be prepared swiftly.

To begin, bring 3 quarts of salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add pasta, stirring well, and cook uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes. While the pasta cooks, thaw frozen peas by placing them in a strainer and running hot water over them. In a large serving bowl, combine the thawed peas with grated Parmesan, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 2/3 cup of cooking water and drain the rest. Add the pasta and reserved water to the bowl with peas, tossing everything together before serving. This dish serves four and is both quick and satisfying.

One-Pan Cheesy Pasta

This one-pan cheesy pasta dish offers a nostalgic flavor while being incredibly efficient. Although the ingredient list may seem long, most items are pantry staples. Begin by processing canned tomatoes in a food processor until coarsely ground.

Heat oil in a 12-inch nonstick pan over medium heat, adding chopped onion and half a teaspoon of salt. Cook until softened, then add garlic and red pepper flakes. Once fragrant, incorporate meat and cook until lightly browned. Scatter pasta over the meat and pour the processed tomatoes on top. Cover and increase the heat to medium-high. Cook, stirring often, until the pasta is tender, about 29 minutes. Off the heat, mix in half of the mozzarella and Parmesan. Top with dollops of ricotta and the remaining cheese, allowing it to melt before serving. This recipe serves four.

Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

For a heartier option, consider a slow cooker chicken tortilla soup that simmers throughout the day. This dish is a family favorite and can be prepared with minimal effort. Place chicken in the slow cooker and sprinkle with spices, mixing well. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, and chipotle pepper.

Set the slow cooker on low for eight hours. Once cooked, shred the chicken and return it to the pot, adding sliced corn tortillas to thicken the soup. After a brief additional cooking time, prepare fried tortilla strips in a skillet for a crunchy topping. Serve the soup in bowls with optional toppings such as avocado, lime juice, cheese, and cilantro. This recipe yields eight servings, making it ideal for larger families.

Homemade Fish Sticks

Finally, homemade fish sticks provide a fresh alternative to store-bought options. Using cod or another firm white fish, parents can create a dish that children will love. Begin by preheating the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

Cut fish fillets into planks and season them with salt and a spice mixture of black pepper, oregano, and paprika. Set up a breading station with flour, an egg wash, and a combination of panko bread crumbs and grated Parmesan. Coat each fish stick and arrange them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with oil and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown. Serve with ketchup or homemade tartar sauce for dipping. This recipe serves six and can be stored in the freezer for up to two months.

As families prepare for the back-to-school season, these four dinner ideas offer convenient and delicious solutions to help ease the transition. By incorporating simple recipes that require minimal preparation, parents can ensure that mealtime remains a time for connection amidst the hustle and bustle of the academic year.