Cooking for one doesn’t have to feel like a chore or leave you with mountains of leftovers. Whether you’re trying to stay healthy, save time, or rediscover the joy of cooking, I’ve put together some quick and easy meal ideas to inspire you. These recipes are designed to be simple, flavorful, and just the right size for one person—because you deserve delicious meals without the hassle.
And don’t worry, if you’re not feeling particularly inspired today, I’ve got you covered with a free guide packed with even more recipes and tips.
1. Breakfast: Start the Day Right
Quick Veggie Omelet
Whisk up one or two eggs, toss in some chopped veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes, and cook it all in a non-stick pan. Serve with a slice of whole-grain toast for a hearty, nutritious start to your day.
Overnight Oats
Mix ½ cup rolled oats, ½ cup milk (or almond milk), and your favourite toppings—think berries, nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Let it sit in the fridge overnight, and breakfast will be ready when you are!
2. Lunch: Simple and Satisfying
Simple Summer Salad with a Savory Twist
One of my favourite go-to lunch recipes is a light, refreshing salad paired with a flavourful fishcake, chicken sausage, or rissole from Aldi. These little gems are not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare—perfect for when you want a satisfying meal without too much effort.
As for the salad, it may sound boring, but you know what they say – sometimes simplicity is best (less is more, and all that). Trust me, this combination is simple yet surprisingly tasty: diced cucumber, tomato, red onion, and capsicum, with optional extras like beetroot or sweetcorn. Top it off with a sprinkle of feta cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The best part? You can prep the veggies in advance for a no-fuss meal that’s ready in minutes.
This combo is a winner for a quick and easy summer lunch—delicious, nutritious, and downright satisfying.
Tuna Salad Wrap
Combine a can of tuna with a dollop of mayo, some chopped celery, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Wrap it all up in a tortilla or lettuce leaves for a quick, light lunch.
Don’t like tuna? Swap out for roast chicken or another protein of your choice!
Hearty Vegetable Soup
Make a small batch of vegetable soup with ingredients like carrots, zucchini, canned tomatoes, and lentils. Store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for an easy reheat-and-eat option later in the week.
3. Dinner: Quick and Cozy
Quick and Comforting Dinner Idea
When it comes to dinner, I like to keep things simple yet satisfying. One of my go-to meals is a perfectly cooked steak, a juicy salmon fillet, or a stuffed chicken breast—nothing fancy, just good, wholesome food that’s quick to prepare.
I pair it with creamy mashed sweet potato (because sweet potato makes everything better) and a side of green beans or your favourite veggies. This meal is not only packed with flavour but also strikes a nice balance between hearty and healthy.
Whether you’re cooking for one or just want something easy without sacrificing taste, this dinner is a no-brainer. Plus, it’s super adaptable—swap out the protein or veggies based on what you have on hand.
Some other quick and healthy dinner ideas:
World’s Greatest Potato Salad with Pork Sausage
The time has come for me to share with the world the best potato salad recipe ever. When I say I could eat this every day, I’m not exaggerating!
Microwave whole potatoes (skin on) wrapped in kitchen roll for 5 minutes or until soft. Let cool, then cut into large chunks. Mix in Dijon mustard, wholegrain mustard, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Add cooked pork sausages, sliced, and top with chopped spring onions. Serve and enjoy!
Baked Honey Mustard Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Green Beans
Arrange chicken, sweet potato wedges, and green beans on a baking sheet. Mix olive oil, honey, and Dijon mustard, then brush over the chicken and veggies. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping veggies halfway through. Enjoy a nutritious, one-pan meal!
Quick tip: Add diced chicken breast
Simple Brussels Sprout Stir-Fry
Okay, hear me out—this is the best stir fry ever. Who would’ve thought brussels sprouts would be the star of a “best ever” anything? Fry diced chicken and chopped bacon. In a separate pan, cook halved brussels sprouts (face down) until browned, then add green beans. Season with salt and pepper, combine everything, and enjoy!
4. Snacks and Treats
Yogurt Parfait
Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a refreshing midday treat. Drizzle over some honey for added sweetness.
Apple Nachos
Slice an apple into wedges, drizzle with a bit of peanut butter, and sprinkle with crushed nuts or chocolate chips.
Cooking Tips for One
- Batch Cook Smartly: Make smaller portions of recipes or freeze leftovers in single-serving sizes.
- Invest in the Right Tools: A small slow cooker or mini baking dish can make cooking for one much easier.
- Plan Ahead: Keep versatile ingredients like eggs, canned beans, and frozen vegetables on hand for quick meals.
Want More Recipes?
This is just the start! I’m working on a free guide, Easy Senior-Friendly Meals for One, for more delicious ideas and helpful cooking tips. It’s filled with some of my favourite, simple recipes that are just as practical as they are tasty. Sign up for my newsletter to be notified when my guide is released!
What are your favorite easy meals for one? Share them in the comments below—I’d love to hear your ideas!