When dinner feels like too much effort, these five recipes will save you. They’re fresh, fast, and foolproof – perfect for spring nights when you’d rather be anywhere but in the kitchen. Think crunchy dumpling salad, a bang bang chicken salad that tastes better than takeaway (and doubles for lunch the next day), a pasta that looks fancy but isn’t, and two one-pan wonders that practically cook themselves. Less stress, more flavour, and dinner done before you’ve had time to change your mind about ordering takeaway.

All of these beautiful recipes feature in my new cookbook Simple Dinners Every Day which is now available to pre-order! Secure your copy here. Shipping from 30 September.

Simple Dinners Every Day by Nicole Maguire
Make sure to pre-order a copy of my new book, Simple Dinners Every Daywhile stocks last! Shipping from 30 September.
1
Overhead shot of Sesame-Soy Dumpling Salad featuring dumplings, mixed greens, and colorful veggies.

Sesame-soy Dumpling Salad

5 from 5 votes
Transform frozen dumplings into a quick, fresh and flavourful meal with this Sesame-soy Dumpling Salad. Crispy pan-fried dumplings, crunchy veggies and a bold dressing make this the ultimate family-friendly dinner or lunch.
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2
Bang Bang Chicken Salad served in a bowl with chopsticks resting on the rim.

Bang Bang Chicken Salad

5 from 9 votes
This vibrant Bang Bang Chicken Salad recipe combines tender marinated chicken, fresh veggies and a creamy, sweet chilli dressing. Perfect for meal prep, picnics or a quick lunch or dinner!
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3
Not Spicy, Not Vodka Pasta served on a plate with a side fork, displaying pasta in a creamy sauce.

Not Spicy, Not Vodka Pasta

5 from 9 votes
Not Spicy, Not Vodka Pasta is my family-friendly take on the viral dish. Here, a rich, creamy, garlicky tomatoey sauce is brightened with red wine vinegar instead of vodka, then topped with burrata and and basil and finally combined with pasta to create an incredibly delicious, easy and elegant meal.
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4
Creamy Lemon Chicken Risoni Orzo

Creamy Lemon Chicken Risoni (Orzo)

5 from 34 votes
This Creamy Lemon Chicken Risoni (Orzo), comes together in just over 30 minutes, all cooked in the one pan with minimal prep and washing up! It’s comforting, delicious and makes the perfect weeknight meal.
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5
Close-up shot of beef ramen noodles and a pair of chopsticks on top.

One-pan Beef Ramen Noodles

4.88 from 58 votes
One-pan Beef Ramen Noodles is an easy, flavoursome stir-fry featuring juicy beef, ramen noodles and fresh veggies in a hoisin-based sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights!
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