• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Unicorns in the Kitchen

Easy family approved recipes from our Kitchen to yours. Persian, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean recipes made easy with fresh ingredients and step-by-step instructions.

  • Recipe Index
  • Mediterranean Recipes
  • Mediterranean Grilling For Everyone eCookbook
  • About
    • Work with Us
    • Contact
  • Recipe Index
  • Mediterranean Recipes
  • Mediterranean Grilling For Everyone eCookbook
  • About
    • Work with Us
    • Contact
menu icon
go to homepage
search icon
Homepage link
  • Recipe Index
  • Mediterranean Recipes
  • Mediterranean Grilling For Everyone eCookbook
  • About
    • Work with Us
    • Contact
  • Ă—
    Home » Recipe Collections

    Best Weeknight Dinner Ideas

    Published: Aug 9, 2023 · Modified: Aug 31, 2023 by Shadi HasanzadeNemati · This post may contain affiliate links .

    14 shares
    Jump to Recipe
    Easy weeknight Dinner Ideas.

    Looking for delicious weeknight dinner recipes? Check out our collection of hassle-free weeknight dinner ideas. From savory one-pot wonders to 30-minute delights, we've got you covered!

    Easy weeknight Dinner Ideas.

    Weeknight Dinner Ideas - Soups and Stews

    Avgolemono (Greek Lemon Chicken Soup)

    Avgolemono (Greek Lemon Chicken Soup)
    This avgolemono soup recipe is comforting with bright flavors. Made with the classic egg lemon sauce, avgolemono, this Greek lemon chicken soup is so satisfying. Follow along for all my tips and instructions to make this authentic Greek chicken soup.
    Check out this recipe
    avgolemono soup.

    Chicken Stew Recipe Turkish Style

    Chicken Stew Recipe Turkish Style
    This chicken stew recipe is hearty and easy to prepare. Made with tender chicken pieces and vegetables, this is a great way to infuse some Turkish flavor into your weeknight dinner routine!
    Check out this recipe
    Turkish style chicken stew.

    Instant Pot Chicken Soup Recipe

    Instant Pot Chicken Soup Recipe
    This comforting instant pot chicken soup is ready in 25 minutes and is the perfect weeknight dinner. Flavored with warm spices such as cinnamon and cumin, this soup is very comforting. This comforting instant pot chicken soup is the perfect weeknight dinner. Learn how to make soup in a pressure cooker with this guide and video.
    Check out this recipe
    Instant pot chicken soup.

    Vegan Eggplant Chickpea Stew

    Vegan Eggplant Chickpea Stew Recipe
    This recipe for eggplant chickpea stew is surprisingly easy and stress-free. It's vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free - perfect for picky eaters!
    Check out this recipe
    Vegan eggplant chickpea stew.
    Vegan eggplant chickpea stew.

    Sausage Gnocchi Soup

    Sausage Gnocchi Soup
    Sausage gnocchi soup is easy and ready in 30 minutes. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that's hearty and simple.
    Check out this recipe
    Sausage gnocchi soup.

    Lamb Stew Recipe

    Lamb Stew Recipe
    This easy lamb stew recipe is filled with healthy and tasty ingredients. It's a one pot stew that's packed with vegetables, lamb and spices.
    Check out this recipe
    lamb stew.

    Weeknight Dinners - Rice And Pasta Recipes

    Persian Style Shrimp and Rice (Meygoo Polo)

    Persian Style Shrimp and Rice (Meygoo Polo)
    Try the classic combination of shrimp and rice with a Persian twist. This dish is packed with delicious and warm Middle Eastern spices! Master this recipe by watching our video and step-by-step tutorial.
    Check out this recipe
    Persian shrimp and rice.

    Cherry Tomato Pasta

    Cherry Tomato Pasta
    This cherry tomato pasta recipe takes 20 minutes from start to finish. With the addition of tomato paste and shallots, this pasta is absolutely delicious!
    Check out this recipe
    Cherry tomato pasta on a white plate.
    Cherry tomato pasta on a white plate.

    Mujadara Lebanese Lentil Rice

    Mujadara Lebanese Lentils and Rice with Crispy Onions
    Mujadara is a simple Lebanese lentil and rice dish with crispy onions that's packed with flavor. This lentils and rice recipe calls for only a few ingredients and is very easy to make.
    Check out this recipe
    Mujadara Lebanese lentil rice.

    Creamy Pesto Pasta

    Creamy Pesto Pasta Recipe
    Ready in 20 minutes, this creamy basil pesto pasta recipe is perfect for any occasion. You only need a few ingredients to make this easy pasta recipe.
    Check out this recipe
    Pesto pasta recipe
    A pan of pesto pasta.

    Persian Style Tomato Rice (Dami Gojeh)

    Persian One Pot Tomato Rice – Dami Gojeh Farangi
    Persian tomato rice is an easy vegetarian dish full of amazing flavors. This one pot rice recipe uses very few ingredients and can be prepared in no time!
    Check out this recipe
    Persian tomato rice dami gojeh farangi.
    Persian tomato rice dami gojeh farangi.

    Weeknight Dinner Recipes - Chicken, Beef and Seafood

    Persian Sausage and Potato Skillet – Sosis Bandari

    Persian Sausage and Potato Skillet – Sosis Bandari
    A Persian fast food favorite, this Persian sausage and potato skillet is quick to make and requires a handful of ingredients. We love to have it with Iranian bread but it would go great with a baguette, too!
    Check out this recipe
    Persian sausage and potatoes.

    Chicken Kofta

    Best Chicken Kofta Recipe
    Easy juicy chicken kofta made with chicken breast, herbs and spices. It's perfect for dinner with various sides such as green salad or rice.
    Check out this recipe
    chicken kofta recipe
    chicken kofta recipe

    Persian Stuffed Potato Patties

    Persian Stuffed Potato Patties
    These stuffed potato patties are the perfect weeknight dinner. Creamy mashed potatoes are stuffed with a tasty beef filling and seared to perfection. 
    Check out this recipe
    Persian stuffed potato patties.

    Persian Meat Patties- Kotlet

    Persian Meat Patties- Kotlet
    Persian meat patties aka Kotlet are tasty patties that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. They are easy to make and so delicious to eat!
    Check out this recipe
    Persian met patties kotlet.

    Best Doner Kebab Recipe (Beef or Lamb)

    Best Doner Kebab Recipe (Beef or Lamb)
    Ready to try the best doner kebab recipe? This homemade Turkish döner kebab is juicy and packed with so much flavor. With one simple technique, you can make this classic Turkish street food at home with just a few ingredients!
    Check out this recipe
    Doner kebab recipe.

    Turkish Baked Cod Recipe

    Turkish Baked Cod Recipe
    This Turkish-style baked cod recipe is a keeper. Tender cod pieces are cooked in a delicious pepper and tomato sauce.
    Check out this recipe
    Turkish baked cod.

    Easy Baked Greek Chicken Recipe

    Easy Baked Greek Chicken Recipe
    This baked Greek chicken recipe is a weeknight favorite. Marinated in yogurt, lemon and garlic, this chicken is flavorful in every bite.
    Check out this recipe
    Greek chicken recipe.

    Quick Caprese Chicken

    Quick Caprese Chicken Recipe
    Easy caprese chicken recipe that's ready in only 30 minutes. Made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella and pesto, this is a delicious easy weeknight dinner. Learn how to make this easy chicken recipe at home with our video and step-by-step tutorial. 

    Check out this recipe
    caprese chicken recipe.

    Easy Chicken Gyro Recipe

    Easy Chicken Gyro Recipe
    This chicken gyro recipe is easy and exceptionally delicious. The marinade makes the chicken extra flavorful and juicy. Stuff it into a pita with fresh veggies and homemade tzatziki for a fabulous Greek deliciousness!
    Check out this recipe
    Chicken gyro recipe.

    Kofta Kebab Recipe

    Kofta Kebab Recipe (Video Tutorial)
    Kofta kebab is a classic Middle Eastern ground beef recipe that's packed with flavor. Learn how to make kofta kebab with my step by step tutorial and video. 
    Check out this recipe
    Kofta kebab recipe.

    Easy Italian Beef Meatballs

    Easy Italian Meatball Recipe
    This easy Italian meatball recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner. The juicy beef meatballs are cooked in a delicious sauce for a satisfying meal.
    Check out this recipe
    Italian meatballs.

    Grilled Zaatar Chicken Recipe

    Grilled Zaatar Chicken Recipe
    Grilled zaatar chicken is juicy and delicious. The key to this recipe is a simple marinade of zaatar and citrus.
    Check out this recipe
    Grilled zaatar chicken.

    Italian Skillet Chicken Recipe

    Italian Skillet Chicken Recipe
    Ready in 30 minutes, this Italian chicken skillet recipe is a great option for a healthy and comforting dinner. This is a simple skillet chicken recipe that calls for real ingredients and is seasoned with bright spices and lemon.
    Check out this recipe
    Italian chicken skillet.

    Turkish Style Ground Beef Stew

    Ground Beef Stew, Turkish Style
    This Turkish style ground beef stew is hearty and perfect for a weeknight dinner. Packed with vegetables and spices, this stew can be served on its own or with some rice.
    Check out this recipe
    ground beef stew Turkish style served with rice.
    ground beef stew Turkish style served with rice.

    Arayes Lebanese Stuffed Pita

    Arayes Lebanese Stuffed Pita
    Arayes are Lebanese meat stuffed pitas that are so easy to make. This classic Middle Eastern street food is ready in 20 minutes, ideal for a weeknight dinner. Follow along to learn how to make delicious beef arayes at home with just a few ingredients!
    Check out this recipe
    Arayes Lebanese stuffed pita.
    Arayes Lebanese stuffed pita.

    Greek Marinated Chicken

    Best Greek Chicken Marinade
    Congratulations - you just found your new favorite chicken marinade! Greek yogurt is the key to a marinade that makes every bite tender and juicy. Notes of lemon and herbs make this a truly outstanding marinade.
    Check out this recipe
    close up shot of Greek chicken marinade.
    Cooked marinated chicken on a black serving board.

    Mediterranean Garlic Chicken Recipe

    Mediterranean Garlic Chicken Recipe
    This Mediterranean style garlic chicken recipe is a keeper. Juicy chicken flavored with garlic and Mediterranean herbs is absolutely delicious.
    Check out this recipe
    Looking for delicious weeknight dinner recipes? Check out our collection of hassle-free weeknight dinner ideas. From savory one-pot wonders to 30-minute delights, we've got you covered!

    Shish Tawook Recipe

    Shish Tawook Recipe
    Shish Tawook is a Lebanese chicken dish that's simple yet so delicious. Tender chicken marinated in yogurt, lemon and garlic makes one delicious meal for the family. 
    Check out this recipe
    Shish tawook.

    Greek Chicken And Potatoes Recipe

    Greek Chicken And Potatoes Recipe
    This Greek chicken and potatoes is the perfect dinner. Made in one pan with lots of garlic and lemon, every bit of this baked chicken and potatoes is juicy and packed with flavor.
    Check out this recipe
    Greek chicken and potatoes.

    Baked Mahi Mahi, Greek Style

    Baked Mahi Mahi, Greek Style!
    This mahi mahi recipe is ready in 30 minutes. Tender and flaky fish baked with bright Mediterranean flavors makes the perfect dinner.
    Check out this recipe
    When the fish is ready, it flakes easily.

    Oven Baked Salmon with Olives and Capers

    Oven Baked Salmon with Olives and Capers
    The best ever oven baked salmon is here! Flaky and moist Alaska salmon with olives and capers on a bed of vegetables is the best weeknight dinner!
    Check out this recipe
    Oven baked salmon.

    Salmon Croquettes

    Salmon Croquette Recipe Mediterranean Style
    Salmon croquettes may sound fancy but they're so easy to make. This salmon croquettes recipe is an easy way to use up leftover salmon and make it into a delicious appetizer or light dinner. 
    Check out this recipe
    salmon croquettes.

    Mediterranean Baked Dijon Salmon Recipe

    Mediterranean Baked Dijon Salmon Recipe
    An easy salmon recipe with so much flavor, this dijon salmon recipe is a family favorite. This baked salmon is juicy, tender and very easy to make. 

    Check out this recipe
    Dijon salmon.

    Parmesan Crusted Baked Cod

    Easy Parmesan Baked Cod Recipe
    Parmesan crusted baked cod recipe is easy and ready in 30 minutes. Tender cod fillets are coated with parmesan and baked to perfection. You can serve this dish with appetizing side dishes such as brown rice or a simple salad. 
    Check out this recipe
    parmesan baked cod.

    Garlic Lemon Shrimp

    Best Garlic Lemon Shrimp Recipe
    An easy lemon shrimp recipe that's packed with so much flavor. It's made in one pan and takes only 20 minutes from start to finish.
    Check out this recipe
    garlic lemon shrimp
    garlic lemon shrimp

    Mediterranean Style Shrimp Recipe

    Sauteed Shrimp Mediterranean Style
    This easy Mediterranean style sauteed shrimp recipe is packed with fresh flavors. The aromatic blend of spices will make you feel like you’re dining in Spain or Greece without leaving your house.
    Check out this recipe
    Mediterranean shrimp.

    Balsamic Chicken Recipe

    Easy Balsamic Chicken Recipe
    An easy balsamic chicken recipe that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The balsamic marinade doubles as the sauce and makes the chicken extra juicy and delicious.
    Check out this recipe
    balsamic chicken
    balsamic chicken

    Pan Seared Salmon Recipe

    Pan Seared Salmon Recipe
    Everything you need to know about pan seared salmon. From what salmon to get to a fool proof how-to. Watch the step-by-step video tutorial to learn how to make the best pan seared salmon that's crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. 
    Check out this recipe
    Pan seared salmon.

    Garlic Lemon Tilapia Recipe

    Garlic Lemon Tilapia Recipe
    Ready in 30 minutes, this garlic lemon tilapia recipe makes the perfect dinner. This is one of the best tilapia recipes out there and it's so easy to make!
    Check out this recipe
    Garlic lemon tilapia.

    Best Salmon Marinade Mediterranean Style

    Best Salmon Marinade Mediterranean Style
    This salmon marinade features bright flavors and doesn't require a long list of ingredients. You can use this marinade for baked or grilled salmon. 
    Check out this recipe
    Best salmon marinade.

    Vegetarian Weeknight Dinner Ideas

    Kuku Sabzi (Persian Herb Frittata)

    Kuku Sabzi (Persian Herb Frittata)
    Kuku Sabzi is a Persian Herb Frittata that can be baked in the oven and is topped with barberries and walnuts. It's a great recipe to use up all the herbs!
    Check out this recipe
    kuku sabzi.

    Spanish Tortilla Recipe

    Spanish Tortilla Recipe
    This Spanish tortilla recipe is a classic. Also known as tortilla espanola, this easy Spanish potato omelette is so easy yet very satisfying. You're only four ingredients and a skillet away from one of the most popular Spanish dishes! 
    Check out this recipe
    Spanish tortilla

    Turkish Zucchini Fritters Recipe Mucver

    Turkish Zucchini Fritters Recipe Mucver
    Mucver or zucchini fritters is a classic Turkish dish that's ready in 30 minutes. This recipe calls for fresh zucchini and herbs and it's very simple to make. 
    Check out this recipe
    Overhead shot of mucver Turkish zucchini Fritters.
    Overhead shot of mucver Turkish zucchini Fritters.

    Kashke Bademjan (Persian Eggplant Dip)

    Kashke Bademjan (Persian Eggplant Dip)
    Kashke bademjan is a simple Persian eggplant dip that is made with a handful of ingredients. This tasty vegetarian dip is full of amazing flavors and makes for a perfect appetizer!
    Check out this recipe
    Persian eggplant dip.

    Creamy Spinach Pesto Pasta

    Creamy Spinach Pesto Pasta
    This spinach pesto pasta is creamy and rich, plus it's loaded with vegetables. Easy to make and ready in 30 minutes, this vegetarian pasta is both healthy and delicious.
    Check out this recipe
    Creamy spinach pesto pasta.

    Turkish Red Lentil Soup Recipe (Mercimek Corbasi)

    Turkish Red Lentil Soup Recipe (Mercimek Corbasi)
    Turkish lentil soup is ready in 30 minutes and is so easy to make. You can make this healthy and delicious soup with just a handful of ingredients.
    Check out this recipe
    Turkish red lentil soup

    Lemon Ricotta Pasta

    Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe
    Creamy lemon ricotta pasta is a delicious and easy dish ready in 20 minutes. Fresh lemon and rich ricotta make this pasta extra special.
    Check out this recipe
    lemon ricotta pasta
    lemon ricotta pasta

    Cauliflower Fritter

    Best Cauliflower Fritters Recipe
    Ready in 30 minutes, these cauliflower fritters are packed with Mediterranean spices and herbs. Serve with some salad and bread for a complete lunch or dinner.
    Check out this recipe
    cauliflower fritters.
    cauliflower fritters.

    Turkish Zucchini Stew

    Turkish Zucchini Stew Recipe
    This Turkish zucchini stew is hearty, healthy and so easy to make. It's made in one pot and is ready in just 30 minutes.
    Check out this recipe
    Turkish zucchini stew.

    Easy Flatbread Pizza

    Easy Flatbread Pizza Recipe
    Ready in 30 minutes, flatbread pizza is such an easy option for lunch or dinner. With so many options for toppings, this recipe will please the whole family!
    Check out this recipe
    Flatbread pizza.
    Flatbread pizza.

    Easy Moroccan Chickpea Stew

    Easy Moroccan Chickpea Stew
    Moroccan chickpea stew is made with simple ingredients and flavored with warm spices. It’s easy and ready in no time!
    Check out this recipe
    Moroccan chickpea stew.

    Easy Mediterranean Green Lentil Soup

    Easy Mediterranean Green Lentil Soup
    Here's a green lentil soup with a Mediterranean twist. Packed with vegetables and spices, this recipe proves that healthy soups don't have to be bland!
    Check out this recipe
    Green lentil soup

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I make these ahead of time?

    You can make most of these recipes in advance and reheat when ready to serve. I recommend checking out each recipe for complete instructions.

    How long do these dishes keep?

    You can store the leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them for 2 to 4 days depending on the dish.

    More Recipe Collections

    • Best summer dinner ideas.
      Best Summer Dinner Ideas
    • Best Cast Iron Skillet Recipes
    • Healthy lunch ideas you should try.
      Best Healthy Lunch Ideas
    • 45+ Easy Side Dishes You'll Love!

    Did you make this recipe? I'd love to hear about it! Please comment and leave a 5-star🌟 rating below. You can also follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest or subscribe to our newsletter to get a free e-Cookbook!

    Step-by-Step Recipe

    easy weeknight dinner ideas.

    Best Weeknight Dinner Ideas

    Shadi HasanzadeNemati
    Looking for delicious weeknight dinner recipes? Check out our collection of hassle-free weeknight dinner ideas. From savory one-pot wonders to 30-minute delights, we've got you covered!
    No ratings yet
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 15 minutes mins
    Cook Time 40 minutes mins
    Total Time 55 minutes mins
    Course Main Course
    Cuisine Mediterranean, middle eastern, Persian
    Servings 4
    Calories 430 kcal

    Ingredients
      

    • Check out each recipe for complete list of ingredients

    Instructions
     

    • Check out each recipe for step-by-step instructions.
    • You can make most of these dishes ahead of time and reheating in the oven or in a pan right before serving.
    • Store the leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for 2 to 4 days depending on the dish.
    • You can make many of these recipes vegetarian by either leaving the meat out or use an alternative such as legumes, tofu, etc. More details are added to each recipe.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 430kcal
    Did you make this recipe? Let us know how it was by leaving a comment and a 5-star review!

    More Recipe Collections

    • Here is a collection of our best lentil recipes. From soups and salads to classic lentil main dishes, you can find many tasty recipes here. So, whether you're in the mood for a comforting bowl of lentil soup or a healthy lentil salad made with fresh ingredients, this collection has you covered.
      Best Lentil Recipes To Try
    • Looking for delicious comfort food recipes? Here is a collection of comfort food that are cozy and easy to make. Whether you like soup ,meatballs, pasta or rice dishes ,you can find your favorite comfort food recipe here and enjoy!
      Best Comfort Food Recipes
    • Best side dishes for pasta.
      Best Side Dishes For Pasta
    • Here are our best ground beef recipes for you to try! From kabobs to stew and Meatball, we've got many recipes with ground beef that that would be perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.
      Best Ground Beef Recipes
    14 shares

    Reader Interactions

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    Easy weeknight Dinner Ideas.

    Welcome to Unicorns in the Kitchen, where we share delicious recipes from our kitchen to yours. You’re in for a delicious adventure and collection of unique and tasty recipes.

    Read more...

    Readers Favorites!

    • Turkish Bulgur Pilaf Recipe
    • Easy Lavash Bread Recipe
    • Kashke Bademjan (Persian Eggplant Dip)
    • Greek Eggplant Moussaka Recipe

    Latest Recipes

    • Easy focaccia recipe.
      Easy Focaccia Recipe
    • How to cut a pomegranate.
      How To Cut A Pomegranate
    • Easy seafood paella in a pan.
      Easy Seafood Paella Recipe
    • How to make tahdig Persian crispy rice.
      Tahdig Recipe (Persian Crispy Rice)

    Footer

    Easy weeknight Dinner Ideas.

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms & Conditions
    • Accessibility

    Newsletter

    • Sign Up! for emails and updates

    Contact

    • Contact
    • Services
    • About US

    All images and content are copyright protected. Read about privacy policy and copyright. Our site contains affiliate links.

    Copyright 2019, All rights reserved.
    Read about privacy policy and copyright Privacy Policy.