Simple and Tasty: 5 Healthy Recipes for Beginner Cooks

Cooking healthy food doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right ingredients and techniques, anyone can make delicious and nutritious meals in a short amount of time. But for those who are just starting, the idea of cooking something from scratch may be intimidating. Fear not, for these five simple and tasty recipes are easy enough for beginner cooks to try!

Salmon and Asparagus Sheet Pan Dinner

Salmon is an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for good health. This recipe is not only healthy but is also flavorful and easy to make. Here is what you need:

• 1 pound salmon fillet
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 bunch asparagus, chopped
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Place the salmon fillet in the center of a baking sheet, lightly coated with cooking spray. Drizzle the olive oil over the salmon and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Surround the salmon with asparagus and minced garlic, and then drizzle with lemon juice. Lastly, sprinkle with additional salt and pepper if needed. Roast the salmon for 12-15 minutes, or until it is fully cooked.

Quinoa Salad with Spinach and Feta

Quinoa is a grain that is high in protein and fiber, and perfect for those who are looking for healthy meals. Here is what you need:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 3 cups spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped sunflower seeds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth and quinoa to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, spinach, feta cheese, red onion, and sunflower seeds. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the quinoa salad and toss well to combine. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Chicken and Vegetable Stir Fry

Stir-fry dishes are quick, easy, and healthy. This recipe is not only good for beginner cooks but is also versatile. You can use any vegetables of your choice. Here is what you need:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 carrot, sliced
• 1 cup sugar snap peas
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, cornstarch, honey, garlic, and ginger. Set aside. In a large wok or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and stir-fry until it is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the wok and set aside. In the same wok or skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the onion, bell pepper, carrot, and sugar snap peas, and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Add the sauce to the vegetables and stir until it thickens. Return the chicken to the wok and toss with the vegetables until it is heated through. Serve over rice or noodles.

Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Who doesn’t love fries? But regular fries are not very healthy. This baked sweet potato fries are packed with vitamins and are deliciously crispy. Here is what you need:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees. In a large bowl, mix the sweet potato fries with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until the fries are evenly coated. Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet, sprayed with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the fries are crispy and lightly browned.

Banana and Peanut Butter Smoothie

Smoothies are a quick and easy way to start your day, especially if you’re rushing out the door. This banana and peanut butter smoothie is not only healthy but also filling and delicious. Here is what you need:

• 2 bananas, sliced
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons peanut butter
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

In a blender, combine the sliced bananas, milk, Greek yogurt, peanut butter, honey, and cinnamon. Blend until smooth and creamy. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.

Conclusion

Cooking healthy food doesn’t have to be complicated, and these recipes are proof of that. By using fresh and healthy ingredients, you can make delicious meals in a short amount of time. With practice, you’ll find that cooking is a fun and rewarding experience that can lead to better health and wellness. And if you’re just starting, these five recipes are perfect for beginner cooks. So what are you waiting for? Get cooking and enjoy your healthy meals! Thank you for reading, and happy cooking!