Preparing a delicious dinner doesn’t have to be a time-consuming affair. With my grandmother’s classic recipe, you can have a flavorful meal on the table in just 10 minutes. This dish has been passed down through generations and continues to be a family favorite for its simplicity and taste.
Why 10-Minute Meals Are Ideal
In today’s busy world, quick meals are a lifesaver. They offer the perfect balance between flavor and convenience, making them a go-to for busy weeknights. Whether you’re working late or need to feed your family fast, this quick and easy dinner will satisfy everyone at the table.
For more inspiration on fast meals, check out this Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe, another quick and tasty option that pairs perfectly with this meal.
The Origins of My Grandmother’s Recipe
This recipe has its roots in family tradition. My grandmother, known for her resourcefulness, often needed to prepare dinner quickly without sacrificing quality. Her solution? A dish that uses basic ingredients but delivers a rich, comforting flavor in just 10 minutes.
If you’re interested in trying more classic family recipes, you might enjoy this recipe for Southern Fried Chicken, another quick and delicious meal with a southern twist.
Ingredients and Tools You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is that it requires minimal ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of protein (chicken, beef, or tofu)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh herbs for garnish
Tools
- A skillet or frying pan
- Knife and cutting board
- Spatula
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Prepping the Ingredients
- Slice the onion and bell pepper thinly to ensure they cook quickly.
- Mince the garlic for added depth of flavor.
- If using meat, slice it into thin strips to speed up the cooking process.
2. Cooking Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in the skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the garlic, onion, and bell pepper, and sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant and soft.
- Add your protein of choice, cooking for 4-5 minutes until done.
- Stir in the soy sauce, salt, and pepper, then cook for an additional minute.
3. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve immediately with rice, salad, or bread.
- Optionally garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor and presentation.
Nutritional Information and Dietary Adaptations
This meal is as nutritious as it is quick to prepare. Below is a basic nutritional breakdown and options for dietary adaptations.
Nutritional Breakdown
- Calories: ~350 per serving
- Protein: 25g (depending on the protein used)
- Fat: 12g (from olive oil)
- Carbohydrates: 18g (from vegetables)
Dietary Adaptations
- Vegetarian: Swap the meat for tofu or tempeh.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Low-Carb: Serve with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
FAQs – Quick Answers to Common Questions
How can I make this recipe even faster?
You can pre-slice the vegetables and pre-cook the protein earlier in the week, making the final preparation as quick as heating everything together in the skillet.
Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave when ready to serve.
What other proteins can I use in this recipe?
This recipe is very versatile. Try using shrimp, tofu, or even leftover roast chicken to save time.
Can I make this recipe healthier?
Certainly! Reduce the amount of oil or use a non-stick skillet, and consider adding more vegetables for a nutrient boost.
Conclusion
With my grandmother’s classic 10-minute recipe, you can create a meal that’s not only quick but also packed with flavor. Whether you’re a busy professional or simply looking for a fast, satisfying dinner option, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Try it today, and for more inspiration, don’t forget to explore other quick and easy recipes like these Air Fryer Onion Rings or the classic Southern Fried Chicken.
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10-Minute Dinner Recipe: My Grandmother’s Delicious Classic
Description
The Most Delicious Dinner in 10 Minutes: My Grandmother’s Classic Recipe
Ingredients
- 500g Stellini pasta
- 50g butter
- 15g flour
- 500ml milk
- 100g grated mozzarella cheese
- 1 finely chopped onion
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 700g ground meat (beef, pork, chicken, or turkey)
- 200g tomato sauce
- Vegetable oil for cooking
- Salt to taste
- Meat seasoning and a pinch of ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the Stellini pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Gradually add the flour, stirring constantly to form a roux.
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking until smooth and thickened. Season with salt and nutmeg. Set aside.
- Cook the Meat:
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan and sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Increase the heat, add the ground meat, and cook until browned. Season with meat seasoning and salt.
- Stir in tomato sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes.
- Assemble the Dish:
- In a baking dish, layer half of the pasta, meat mixture, and béchamel sauce. Repeat with the remaining pasta, meat, and sauce.
- Bake:
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Helpful Tips:
- Ensure even layering for balanced flavors.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Pair with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Please email this recipe to me.
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