Khichdi, pasta and more: Easy one pot meals for quick lunch and dinner

In the commotion of daily life, the need for a quick yet satisfying meal is a common requirement. While managing a hundred other things, eating takes a back seat sometimes. But with quick and easy one-pot meals you will not only simplify the cooking process but also minimise cleanup efforts. Here are five easy one-pot meals that promise to make your lunch or dinner preparation a breeze.

Khichdi

India’s favourite comfort food, khichdi is a versatile and healthy dish that combines rice and lentils, creating a wholesome meal. To enhance the flavours, add your favourite spices like cumin, coriander, and a pinch of garam masala. Throw in some vegetables like potatoes, beans, carrots, and seasonal green peas for added goodness. Pressure cook and enjoy with some ghee. Khichdi is not only easy to make but also gentle on the stomach.

Spinach soup

A one-pot spinach soup is a quick and nutritious option for lunch or dinner if you want to keep the meal light. Saute onions and garlic, add freshly cut spinach, and let it simmer with vegetable broth. Cool and then blend the mixture for a velvety texture. Finish with a squeeze of lemon for a fresh flavour or cream for a rich texture. This nutrient-packed soup is nourishing and delicious.

Pasta

Craving Italian but do not have a lot of time? Go for a one-pot pasta dish for a speedy and comforting meal. Throw pasta, chopped garlic, marinara sauce, and vegetable or chicken broth into a pot. Let it simmer until the pasta is al dente and the flavours mix together. Top with butter, grated cheese, and fresh herbs for a simple yet satisfying meal.

Lemon rice

Lemon rice is a quick and tangy delight from South India. Saute mustard seeds, urad dal, and curry leaves in oil. Add rice, lemon juice, and turmeric, tossing everything together. Then cover the pan and let it simmer till the rice is cooked. Garnish with a little more lemon juice and have your delicious, tangy lemon rice.

Vegetable pulao

Vegetable pulao is a fragrant and nourishing one-pot rice dish. Saute whole spices like cumin, cardamom, and cloves in ghee. Add a variety of fresh vegetables like peas, carrots, beans, onions, capsicum and even soybean or paneer. Next, add rice, and water, and let it cook until the rice is fluffy and infused with the spices. Garnish with fresh coriander and enjoy.