Cooking at home can be a lot of fun, but for many people, the cleanup is the most dreaded part of the process. If you’re someone who loves delicious meals but can’t stand washing a mountain of dishes, one-pot recipes are your new best friend. These dishes keep things simple while still delivering on health and flavor. The best part? They’re perfect for beginners who want to start cooking at home without getting overwhelmed. All you need is one pot, a few wholesome ingredients, and a little creativity to whip up meals that are both tasty and nutritious. Here are some easy, healthy one-pot recipes to get you started.

Veggie-Packed Stir-Fried Rice

Stir-fried rice is a classic one-pot meal that’s easy to customize and brimming with vegetables. It’s a great way to make use of leftover rice and any veggies you have sitting in your fridge.

To make veggie-packed stir-fried rice, start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Sauté a mixture of chopped vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, peas, and green onions until they’re tender. Push the veggies to one side of the pan and scramble one or two eggs on the other side. Once the eggs are cooked, mix everything together and add cooked rice to the pan. Season with a splash of soy sauce and a sprinkle of garlic powder. Cook for a few more minutes, letting the flavors blend together. You’ll have a satisfying, healthy meal in no time.

Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup

When the weather gets chilly, there’s nothing more comforting than a big pot of soup. Lentils are a fantastic ingredient to use because they’re high in fiber, protein, and iron, making this dish filling and nutritious.

To make hearty lentil and vegetable soup, combine chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in a large pot with a bit of olive oil. Sauté until the vegetables are soft. Add a cup of dry lentils, a can of diced tomatoes, four cups of vegetable broth, and your favorite seasonings, such as thyme, cumin, or bay leaves. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. Toss in some chopped kale or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra boost of greens. This one-pot soup is perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner after a long day.

Chicken and Quinoa Skillet

If you’re looking for a dish that’s rich in protein and grain-free, a chicken and quinoa skillet is a satisfying option. Quinoa is a versatile grain substitute that’s packed with nutrients like magnesium, iron, and protein.

Start by seasoning boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet and cook the chicken until it’s golden on both sides, then set it aside. Using the same skillet, sauté diced onions and bell peppers until soft. Add a cup of rinsed quinoa, two cups of chicken broth, a can of diced tomatoes, and a pinch of oregano or basil. Stir well and place the chicken back on top of the mixture. Cover the skillet and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This dish is an all-in-one dinner that’s both easy and flavorful.

Spaghetti Squash with Garlic and Parmesan

Spaghetti squash is a healthy alternative to traditional pasta, and it’s just as satisfying. Its mild flavor pairs wonderfully with simple seasoning, turning it into a delicious one-pot meal.

To make spaghetti squash with garlic and parmesan, cut a whole spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Roast the squash in a baking dish with a splash of olive oil at 400°F for about 40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender. Once it’s cool enough to handle, use a fork to scrape out the “noodles” and set them aside.

Meanwhile, heat some olive oil and minced garlic in a large skillet. Add the spaghetti squash noodles, grated parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Toss everything together until heated through, and enjoy a low-carb, cheesy comfort food that’s simple to clean up.

One-Pot Mexican Black Bean and Rice

If you’re in the mood for something flavorful and comforting, a Mexican-inspired black bean and rice dish is the way to go. This plant-based meal is hearty, flavorful, and easy to whip up with pantry staples.

Heat a bit of oil in a large pot and sauté chopped onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in a cup of uncooked long-grain rice, a can of black beans (drained), a can of diced tomatoes (with liquid), two cups of vegetable broth, and a teaspoon each of cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Mix well and bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.

For added flavor, squeeze in some fresh lime juice and sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving. You can also top this dish with sliced avocado or a dollop of plain Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.

Creamy Coconut Curry with Vegetables

Coconut curry is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for beginners. It’s creamy, warming, and incredibly satisfying, while also providing a generous serving of vegetables.

Start by heating a tablespoon of coconut oil in a large saucepan and sautéing some chopped onions, garlic, and ginger. Add a tablespoon of curry powder or red curry paste and cook for another minute to release the spices’ aroma. Pour in a can of coconut milk and stir until well combined. Add your choice of vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, broccoli, or snap peas, followed by a can of chickpeas for some plant-based protein. Simmer the curry for about 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Serve the curry as it is, or spoon it over cooked rice or quinoa for a delicious and easy one-pot dinner.

These recipes prove that you don’t need to juggle multiple pots and pans to make healthy, delicious meals at home. With everything cooking in a single pot or pan, cleanup is a breeze, and you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your food.