Living by Design…3 Quick and Delicious Winter Recipes for Busy Weeknights

As winter wraps us in its chilly embrace, the desire for hearty and comforting meals grows stronger. For busy professionals navigating the hustle and bustle of weeknights, finding time to prepare a warm and satisfying dinner can be challenging. Fear not, for we’ve curated three delightful winter recipes that are not only delicious but also quick and easy to whip up on those hectic evenings.

1. One-Pot Chicken and Vegetable Stew: Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the diced chicken until browned.
2. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
3. Stir in carrots, potatoes, and broccoli.
4. Pour in chicken broth, and add dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 20-25 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together. Serve piping hot for a comforting winter stew that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
6. Pesto Tortellini with Roasted Vegetables: Ingredients:

• 1 lb cheese-filled tortellini
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 3 tablespoons pesto sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and bell pepper in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are caramelized.
3. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini with roasted vegetables and pesto sauce.
5. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese before serving. This flavorful dish is a quick and delightful way to elevate your weeknight dinner.
6. Sheet Pan Baked Salmon with Winter Vegetables: Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
• 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons dried dill
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a large baking sheet, toss halved baby potatoes and Brussels sprouts in olive oil, dried dill, salt, and pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the sheet, and arrange lemon slices on top.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve this sheet pan delight for a wholesome and nutritious winter dinner that requires minimal cleanup.

These three winter recipes are a testament to the fact that a delicious and warming meal can be achieved even on the busiest of weeknights. With minimal preparation and a burst of seasonal flavors, you can indulge in cozy culinary delights that bring comfort to your winter evenings. Happy cooking!

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