15 Easy Recipes That’ll Make You the Guardian of Grub Time Traditions

Looking for simple ways to keep the tradition of good food alive? These easy recipes will show how effortless it can be to whip up favorites that everyone loves. Guests will think there’s a pro in the kitchen, but only you know the secret. Keep those cherished family meals going strong with these no-fuss dishes. It’s all about sticking to what matters: good food and good times.

Baja fish tacos on a white plate.
Baja Fish Tacos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Chicken Salad with Walnuts and Cranberries in a bowl.
Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Combining chicken chunks with cranberries and walnuts, this salad is a great way to enjoy a balanced meal. Perfect for lunch or even a light dinner, it’s simple, flavorful, and sort of fun to eat. It’s not just any chicken salad; it’s got a sweet twist with a bit of crunch. Throw in your favorite greens, and you’re good to go. This dish easily becomes a family favorite with its unique blend of textures. It’s easy to prepare but feels kind of fancy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Air Fryer chicken cordon bleu on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

The air fryer makes this Chicken Cordon Bleu an effortless choice. With its crispy exterior and delectable inside, it’s something you’ll want to make multiple times a month. Ideal for both busy weeknights and special dinners, this dish is versatile. The air fryer does a lot of the work, so you can focus on enjoying meal time. This one could quickly become a staple in your home. It’s straightforward yet impresses anyone who tries it.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Steak & Pasta Salad

A black bowl filled with a pasta salad containing farfalle, steak slices, radishes, cherry tomatoes, lettuce, nuts, and crumbled blue cheese, garnished with parsley, on a wooden board next to a spoon.
Steak & Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Steak and pasta come together in this easy salad that’s hearty and satisfying. Great for those who love a bit of protein with their greens, this meal offers a balanced option. Prepping the steak and tossing it with pasta creates a compelling dish that’s easy to love. The different textures work well together, making it a pleasant experience. If you’re looking for a change from regular salads, this is a good way to go. Good for both lunch and dinner, it’s as versatile as it gets.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Pasta Salad

Cuban Sandwich Casserole

A piece of Cuban sandwich casserole on a plate with potato chips.
Cuban Sandwich Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A twist on the traditional sandwich, this casserole takes it to another level. When you crave Cuban sandwich flavors but want something different, here’s a solid choice. Layered and baked, it’s comforting and feeds a bunch of people easily. The assembly is simple, and once it’s in the oven, the work is mostly done. Ideal for parties or family gatherings, you can prepare this one ahead of time. It’s a low-maintenance dish that delivers high-impact flavors.
Get the Recipe: Cuban Sandwich Casserole

Brisket Fried Rice

Brisket fried rice in black serving dish on white background.
Brisket Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Combining brisket with fried rice creates a fantastic meal that’s incredibly easy to make. This dish brings together the smoky, rich flavors of brisket with the comforting nature of fried rice. Perfect when you have leftovers and want to create something new. It’s a meal-in-one that ticks all the boxes. You won’t need too much more to go with it, making it a go-to option often. Suitable for busy weeknights or casual dinners.
Get the Recipe: Brisket Fried Rice

Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

2 Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwiches on a black plate.
Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

The Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich blends grilled chicken with the classic Caprese trio. It’s a great option for lunch, combining freshness with heartiness. The grilled chicken adds a smoky note, making it more than just your usual sandwich. You can throw this together quickly, which is perfect for busy days. It’s also easily customizable based on what you have in the fridge. This sandwich can quickly become a summer favorite.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Shrimp skewers on a white plate with lemon wedges.
Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Grilled shrimp, Mediterranean-style, brings a lovely mix of flavors perfect for warmer months. It’s light but satisfying and works well for a quick meal. This dish can be whipped up with minimal effort and pairs well with a variety of sides. When you want something tasty without too much fuss, it’s a fantastic choice. Ideal for get-togethers or a quiet dinner, it suits any occasion. Plus, grilling the shrimp adds a nice charred touch.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

A bowl of skillet gnocchi with sausage and broccoli rabe.
Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This skillet dish combines gnocchi with sausage and broccoli rabe for a satisfying meal. It’s a hearty option that doesn’t demand much time. Each component complements the other, making it burst with a balanced mix of flavors. You can put this together with ease, and the skillet does most of the work. Great for a quick dinner that doesn’t skimp on comfort. It’s something you’ll likely add to your regular meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

A bowl of Mediterranean orzo salad on a black plate.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This Orzo Salad with Shrimp offers something fresh and different. Good for lunch or dinner, it’s both light and fulfilling. Tossed with desirable Mediterranean flavors, this salad feels very balanced. Quick to throw together, it stands out whether you’re making it for yourself or serving guests. It’s simple, yet impressively tasty. Perfect as a main or side, it’s really versatile.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Chicken Piccata

Two chicken piccata on a white plate with parsley and lemon wedges.
Chicken Piccata. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Piccata is a timeless option that’s always a hit. It’s simple to prepare, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners. The flavors are delightful without being overly complex. Everyone will appreciate a dish that feels a bit special without much effort. Easy to pair with various sides, it’s a versatile option. Makes any dinner feel elevated without the stress.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

Beefy John Wayne Casserole

A slice of beefy John Wayne casserole on a plate.
Beefy John Wayne Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This casserole is all about hearty flavors and simplicity. Beefy John Wayne Casserole combines everything you want in a comforting meal. It’s straightforward to prepare and feeds a crowd with ease. Layers of flavors come together, making it a dish to remember. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. No fuss, just good, filling food.
Get the Recipe: Beefy John Wayne Casserole

Turkey à la King

A plate with a Turkey à la King and salad on it.
Turkey à la King. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Turkey à la King is a delightful way to appreciate turkey beyond the usual roast. It’s rich and creamy, suitable for any meal. Throw it together on a busy night, and it’ll still feel like a treat. Easily paired with rice or toast, making it versatile for various cravings. It’s a straightforward dish that feels satisfying. Ideal for using up turkey leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Turkey à la King

Roast Pork with Apples

A plate of Pork Roast with Apples on a table.
Roast Pork with Apples. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Roast Pork with Apples combines flavors you might not think to put together, but it works well. The pork gets a hint of sweetness, making the whole meal intriguing. Ideal for a Sunday roast or a special gathering, yet simple enough for any night. Pop it in and let the oven do the work. It’s hearty without being overly rich. A good choice for when you want something a bit different but not too complex.
Get the Recipe: Roast Pork with Apples

Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

Al pastor chicken quesadillas pulled apart.
Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

These quesadillas bring the flavors of Chicken Al Pastor to a simple format. Great for a quick lunch or dinner, they are flavorful and easy to make. The al pastor spices give the chicken a unique twist. Quick to assemble and even quicker to finish, they’re perfect for busy days. Could easily become a family favorite. More than just basic quesadillas, they offer something extra.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

Baja Fish Tacos

Baja fish tacos on a white plate.
Baja Fish Tacos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a light and fresh meal, Baja Fish Tacos fit the bill perfectly. Fish tacos are always a hit, and the Baja style adds a nice twist. They’re easy to put together and fun to eat, making them great for any casual meal. Ideal for a summer night or a quick lunch. These tacos bring a taste of coastal cuisine to your table. Suitable for anyone looking for a fresh take on tacos.
Get the Recipe: Baja Fish Tacos

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