20 Quick 7 Ingredient Recipes Perfect for Busy Days

Posted on February 27, 2025

Busy weeknights call for simple solutions—and these 20 quick 7-ingredient recipes are here to save the day! Whether you’re craving cozy comfort food, fresh seasonal bites, or just a no-fuss dinner, we’ve got fast, flavorful meals that won’t keep you tied to the stove. Say goodbye to stress and hello to delicious—let’s dive into these easy wins!

7-Ingredient Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

7-Ingredient Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

This luxuriously simple pasta dish proves you don’t need a long ingredient list to make something seriously comforting—just garlic, butter, and a generous shower of Parmesan do the heavy lifting.

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz fettuccine (or pasta of choice)
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
  2. Meanwhile, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  4. Reduce heat to low and stir in the Parmesan, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until the cheese melts into a velvety sauce. If needed, loosen with reserved pasta water 1 tbsp at a time.
  5. Toss the drained pasta in the sauce until evenly coated. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan.

The magic here? The sauce clings to every noodle without feeling heavy, thanks to that quick emulsification of starchy pasta water and cheese.

Tip: For extra depth, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic—just enough to tingle, not overwhelm.

7-Ingredient Honey Mustard Chicken Bake

7-Ingredient Honey Mustard Chicken Bake

This fuss-free chicken bake delivers big flavor with minimal effort—just mix, pour, and let the oven do the work!

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 3 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Arrange chicken thighs in a 9×13″ baking dish.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup honey, 3 tbsp Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until smooth.
  3. Pour sauce over chicken, turning to coat evenly. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F and the glaze is sticky and caramelized at the edges.

The magic here? The vinegar balances the sweetness while keeping the chicken juicy—no dry bites! Serve over rice to soak up every drop of that glossy sauce.

Tip: For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end (watch closely!).

7-Ingredient Lemon Herb Salmon

7-Ingredient Lemon Herb Salmon

This bright, flaky salmon comes together with just a handful of pantry staples—perfect for busy weeknights when you want something fresh and flavorful without the fuss.

Ingredients:

  • 4 (6-oz) salmon fillets, skin-on or skinless
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest (from about 1 large lemon)
  • 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Pat salmon dry with paper towels, then place on the prepared sheet. Drizzle evenly with 2 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp lemon juice.
  3. In a small bowl, mix 1 tbsp lemon zest, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Sprinkle evenly over the salmon.
  4. Bake for 12–15 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches 145°F internally.

The lemon zest and garlic create a fragrant crust that keeps the fish juicy while adding a punch of brightness—no marinating required!

Tip: For crispy skin, start the salmon skin-side down in a hot oven-safe skillet on the stovetop for 3 minutes before transferring to the oven.

7-Ingredient Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

7-Ingredient Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

This cozy casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender broccoli, all with just seven simple ingredients.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked white rice (about 1 cup uncooked)
  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
  • 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.
  3. Fold in the cooked rice and broccoli until evenly coated, then transfer to the baking dish.
  4. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese on top and bake for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and the cheese is golden at the edges.

The magic here? The broccoli stays perfectly crisp-tender against the ultra-creamy rice—no mushy veggies here!

Tip: For extra crunch, broil for the last 2 minutes (watch closely!).

7-Ingredient Spicy Black Bean Soup

7-Ingredient Spicy Black Bean Soup

This hearty soup packs a punch with smoky chipotle and a touch of lime—perfect for when you need warmth with a kick.

Ingredients:

  • 2 (15-oz) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp chopped chipotle in adobo (plus 1 tsp adobo sauce)
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 3 cups vegetable broth

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium. Add onion and cook for 5 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and 1 tsp cumin; cook 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Add black beans, chipotle + adobo sauce, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
  3. Use an immersion blender to purée half the soup (or transfer 2 cups to a blender and return to pot). Stir in lime juice.

The smoky heat from the chipotle balances the creamy beans, while the lime brightens every spoonful—no toppings needed (though avocado never hurts).

Tip: Freezes beautifully! Cool completely before storing for up to 3 months.

7-Ingredient Teriyaki Beef Stir-Fry

7-Ingredient Teriyaki Beef Stir-Fry

This speedy stir-fry delivers big flavor with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something savory-sweet.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
  • 1/3 cup soy sauce (low-sodium works too)
  • 3 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • 12 oz broccoli florets (about 4 cups)

Instructions:

  1. Whisk together 1/3 cup soy sauce, 3 tbsp honey, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger in a small bowl. Set aside.
  2. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add steak in a single layer and cook undisturbed for 1 minute, then stir-fry until browned (about 2 more minutes). Transfer to a plate.
  3. Add remaining 1 tbsp oil to the skillet. Toss in broccoli and stir-fry for 3 minutes until bright green but still crisp.
  4. Return steak to the skillet, pour sauce over everything, and cook for 1–2 minutes, tossing constantly, until sauce thickens and coats the ingredients.

The magic here? The honey caramelizes into a glossy glaze that clings to every bite—no cornstarch slurry needed! Serve over steamed rice for a complete meal.

Tip: Freeze the steak for 20 minutes before slicing; it’ll make super-thin cuts a breeze.

7-Ingredient Caprese Stuffed Avocados

7-Ingredient Caprese Stuffed Avocados

These creamy avocados get a fresh, summery upgrade with classic Caprese flavors—perfect for a light lunch or impressive appetizer.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large ripe avocados, halved and pitted
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
  • 4 oz fresh mozzarella pearls (or diced mozzarella)
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Scoop out about 1 tbsp of avocado flesh from each half to create a deeper well (save the scooped bits for toast or salads).
  2. In a bowl, gently toss cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
  3. Divide the mixture evenly among the avocado halves, pressing lightly to fill.
  4. Drizzle each stuffed avocado with 1 tbsp balsamic glaze total (about 3/4 tsp per half).
  5. Serve immediately, with a spoon to scoop up every creamy, tangy bite.

The contrast of cool avocado, juicy tomatoes, and melty mozzarella makes this feel indulgent yet effortless—no cooking required!

Tip: For extra crunch, sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

7-Ingredient Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

7-Ingredient Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

This bright, protein-packed salad is a weeknight hero—toss it together in under 30 minutes, and let the zesty flavors do the rest!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
  • 1 3/4 cups water
  • 1/2 tsp salt, divided
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 cup diced cucumber
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives

Instructions:

  1. Cook the quinoa: In a saucepan, combine quinoa, water, and 1/4 tsp salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool slightly.
  2. Make the dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, and remaining 1/4 tsp salt in a large bowl.
  3. Assemble: Add warm quinoa, cucumber, feta, and olives to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to combine.
  4. Serve: Let sit for 10 minutes to let flavors meld, or chill for up to 2 days. Serve at room temperature.

The tangy feta and briny olives play off the fluffy quinoa perfectly, while the cucumber keeps every bite refreshing. Tip: For extra crunch, sprinkle with toasted pine nuts right before serving.

7-Ingredient Baked Zucchini Fritters

7-Ingredient Baked Zucchini Fritters

These crispy baked zucchini fritters are a fuss-free way to sneak in veggies—no frying required, just golden, cheesy goodness straight from the oven.

  • 2 medium zucchinis, grated (about 2 cups)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  1. Prep zucchini: Toss grated zucchini with 1/2 tsp salt in a colander; let sit 10 minutes. Squeeze out excess moisture with a clean towel.
  2. Mix batter: In a bowl, combine zucchini, 1 beaten egg, 1/2 cup Parmesan, 1/4 cup flour, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder until sticky.
  3. Shape & bake: Heat oven to 400°F. Brush a baking sheet with 1 tbsp olive oil. Drop 1/4-cup mounds of batter, flatten slightly, and brush tops with remaining 1 tbsp oil. Bake 20-25 minutes until edges are crisp.

The magic? Baking gives these fritters a crunchy exterior while keeping the centers tender—plus, that Parmesan adds a salty umami punch.

Tip: For extra crunch, broil 1-2 minutes at the end (watch closely!).

7-Ingredient Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

7-Ingredient Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

These hearty tacos are a weeknight lifesaver—packed with smoky-sweet flavor and ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 8 small corn tortillas, warmed
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Roast the sweet potatoes: Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp cumin, and ½ tsp salt. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and caramelized at the edges.
  2. Warm the beans: In a small saucepan over medium heat, stir black beans with 2 tbsp water until heated through, about 3 minutes. Mash lightly with a fork for a chunkier texture.
  3. Assemble: Layer warm tortillas with black beans and roasted sweet potatoes. Top with fresh cilantro if using.

The contrast of creamy beans and crispy-edged sweet potatoes makes every bite satisfying—no cheese or sour cream needed!

Tip: For extra crunch, toast the tortillas directly over a gas flame for 10 seconds per side.

7-Ingredient Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

7-Ingredient Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

This cozy tomato basil soup comes together in under 30 minutes with just a handful of pantry staples—velvety, herbaceous, and begging for a grilled cheese dunk.

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Pour in crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Remove from heat. Using an immersion blender, purée until smooth (or carefully transfer to a countertop blender in batches).
  4. Stir in heavy cream, basil, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 2 more minutes to meld flavors.

The sugar balances the tomatoes’ acidity while the cream adds luxurious body—no roux or cheese required for this silky texture.

Tip: For extra richness, swirl in a pat of butter just before serving.

7-Ingredient Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats

7-Ingredient Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats

Wake up to creamy, dreamy oats that taste like dessert—but are totally breakfast-approved. This no-cook wonder lets your fridge do all the work!

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup milk (dairy or unsweetened almond)
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp creamy peanut butter
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 small banana, thinly sliced

Instructions:

  1. In a 12-oz jar or airtight container, stir together 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1/2 cup milk, 1/4 cup Greek yogurt, 1 tbsp peanut butter, 1 tbsp maple syrup, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract until fully combined.
  2. Layer half the banana slices on top, pressing them gently into the mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight).
  3. Just before serving, stir well and top with remaining banana slices. Add a drizzle of peanut butter if you’re feeling fancy!

The magic happens as the oats soften into pudding-like creaminess, while the bananas caramelize slightly for extra sweetness. No morning cooking required—just grab and go!

Tip: For a protein boost, mix in 1 tbsp chia seeds with the oats—they’ll plump up beautifully overnight.

7-Ingredient Thai Coconut Curry Shrimp

7-Ingredient Thai Coconut Curry Shrimp

7-Ingredient Thai Coconut Curry Shrimp

This creamy, aromatic curry comes together in under 20 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights when you crave big flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp coconut oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp red curry paste
  • 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tbsp coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened.
  2. Stir in 2 tbsp red curry paste and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in 1 can coconut milk, 1 tbsp fish sauce, and 1 tbsp brown sugar, stirring to combine. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  3. Add shrimp and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until opaque and curled.
  4. Remove from heat and fold in 1/4 cup basil.

The magic here? The curry paste infuses the coconut milk with bold spice, while the basil adds a fresh pop that balances the richness.

Tip: For extra depth, swap half the coconut milk with shrimp or vegetable broth.

7-Ingredient Garlic Butter Steak Bites

7-Ingredient Garlic Butter Steak Bites

These juicy, garlicky steak bites come together in minutes and taste like a steakhouse favorite—minus the fuss.

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

  1. Pat steak cubes dry with paper towels. Season evenly with 1 tsp kosher salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
  2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak in a single layer and sear for 2 minutes per side until browned (avoid overcrowding—work in batches if needed). Transfer to a plate.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Melt 3 tbsp butter in the same skillet. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Return steak bites to the skillet, tossing to coat in garlic butter. Cook for 1 more minute for medium-rare, or longer to desired doneness.
  5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with 1 tbsp chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

The magic here? A quick garlic butter glaze clings to every nook of the seared steak, making each bite rich and aromatic.

Tip: For extra flavor, scrape up any browned bits from the skillet when melting the butter—they’re packed with savory depth!

7-Ingredient Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken

7-Ingredient Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken

This juicy stuffed chicken is packed with Mediterranean flavors and comes together with just a handful of ingredients—perfect for a fuss-free weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, mix spinach, feta, garlic, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
  3. Slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through. Stuff evenly with the spinach-feta mixture, then secure with toothpicks.
  4. Brush chicken with 1 tbsp olive oil and place on the baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  5. Let rest 5 minutes before slicing to keep the filling intact.

The tangy feta melts into the garlicky spinach, creating a creamy center that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken. No breadcrumbs or fancy prep needed—just pure, simple flavor.

Tip: For extra browning, broil the stuffed chicken for 1–2 minutes at the end (watch closely!).

7-Ingredient Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

7-Ingredient Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

These gooey, buttery cookie bars are the ultimate one-bowl wonder—perfect for when you need a quick dessert fix without the fuss.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, 1 cup brown sugar, and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs and 2 tsp vanilla extract, mixing well.
  3. Stir in flour until just combined, then fold in chocolate chips (reserve a handful for topping). Spread batter evenly into the pan and sprinkle reserved chips on top.
  4. Bake for 25–28 minutes until edges are golden but the center still looks slightly soft. Let cool completely before slicing.

The magic here? Underbaking just a touch for bars that stay fudgy for days. (If you prefer crisp edges, add 2–3 extra minutes.)

Tip: For extra flavor, brown the butter first—it adds a nutty depth that pairs perfectly with the chocolate.

7-Ingredient One-Pot Chicken and Rice

7-Ingredient One-Pot Chicken and Rice

This cozy one-pot wonder delivers tender chicken and fluffy rice with minimal fuss—perfect for busy weeknights when you crave comfort without the cleanup.

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions:

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5 minutes per side until golden. Transfer to a plate.
  2. In the same pot, stir in 1 cup rice, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/2 tsp salt. Toast for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in 2 cups chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Nestle the chicken back into the pot, cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 20 minutes (no peeking!).
  4. Turn off the heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

The smoky paprika infuses every bite, while the chicken stays juicy thanks to the gentle steam-cook method. Tip: For extra flavor, swap the broth for bone broth or add a bay leaf with the rice.

7-Ingredient Blueberry Lemon Scones

7-Ingredient Blueberry Lemon Scones

These tender, buttery scones burst with juicy blueberries and bright lemon zest—perfect for a lazy weekend brunch or an afternoon pick-me-up.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (plus 1 tbsp for brushing)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 1 tbsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt.
  3. Cut in 1/2 cup cold cubed butter with a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Gently fold in 1 cup fresh blueberries and 1 tbsp lemon zest.
  5. Pour in 1/2 cup heavy cream, stirring just until a shaggy dough forms (don’t overmix!).
  6. Turn dough onto a floured surface, pat into a 1-inch-thick circle, and cut into 8 wedges. Arrange on the baking sheet, brush tops with 1 tbsp heavy cream, and bake for 18–20 minutes until golden.

The magic here? Freezing the butter ensures flaky layers, while the lemon zest cuts through the sweetness for a perfectly balanced bite.

Tip: For extra sparkle, sprinkle scones with coarse sugar before baking.

7-Ingredient Avocado Tuna Salad

7-Ingredient Avocado Tuna Salad

This creamy, protein-packed tuna salad swaps mayo for ripe avocado, making it lighter yet just as satisfying—perfect for quick lunches or stuffed into sandwiches.

Ingredients:

  • 2 (5-oz) cans tuna in water, drained
  • 1 large ripe avocado, pitted and peeled
  • 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a medium bowl, mash the avocado with a fork until mostly smooth (a few small chunks are fine).
  2. Add the tuna, red onion, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Gently stir until fully combined.
  3. Fold in the cilantro (if using), then taste and adjust salt or lime juice as needed.
  4. Serve immediately on toast, crackers, or over greens. For best texture, enjoy within 4 hours.

The avocado’s richness balances the bright lime and briny tuna—no mayo required! It’s a fresh twist on a classic that still feels indulgent.

Tip: For extra crunch, stir in 1/4 cup diced cucumber or celery just before serving.

7-Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Pancakes

7-Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Pancakes

These 7-Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Pancakes are fluffy, cozy, and packed with warm spice—perfect for lazy weekend mornings when you want something special without the fuss.

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 1 small apple, finely grated (about 1/2 cup)
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp salt.
  2. Pour in 3/4 cup milk and stir just until combined (a few lumps are okay). Fold in the grated apple.
  3. Heat a lightly greased skillet over medium-low heat. Pour 1/4 cup batter per pancake and cook for 2–3 minutes until bubbles form on top. Flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden.
  4. Repeat with remaining batter, keeping finished pancakes warm in a 200°F oven if needed.

The grated apple melts into the batter, giving these pancakes a subtly sweet, moist texture—no syrup required (though we won’t judge if you drizzle some!).

Tip: For extra cozy flavor, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon-sugar on the pancakes right after flipping.

Conclusion

With 20 quick and easy 7-ingredient recipes, busy days just got a whole lot tastier! Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or a speedy lunch, these fuss-free dishes are here to save the day. Give them a try, then drop a comment with your favorite—we’d love to hear how it went! Don’t forget to pin this roundup for your next hectic week. Happy cooking!

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