Fall is finally here, but there’s still time to enjoy the last of this warm weather outside! With apple picking in the orchards and hikes through the changing foliage on the agenda, the last thing anyone wants to do is get stuck in the kitchen figuring out what’s for dinner. So, to streamline your meal prep this season, chef and author Elizabeth Heiskell stopped by TODAY to share a few quick and easy recipes — all of which call for just five simple ingredients (plus pantry staples like salt, pepper and oil).
In the mood for Mediterranean? Heiskell has two options that both take only 15 minutes to make. First, chicken smash tacos that are topped with tzatziki sauce and a sprinkle of feta. And second, a crisp romaine salad that’s finished with warm chicken meatballs. If it’s pasta you’re craving, she also has a weeknight-friendly casserole that calls for store-bought tortellini. Doctor it up with prosciutto, pesto and sun-dried tomatoes and the whole family will be asking for seconds! Finally, to get some seasonal produce in the mix, try serving baked sweet potatoes with a heaping spoonful of Buffalo chicken, freshly grated cheddar cheese and a drizzle of ranch dressing. The ingredients may be minimal, but the flavor is maxed out.
Ready to kick off fall cooking? We’ve made it even easier for you. Shop all the recipes — plus, a few tools you may need — below.
Elizabeth Heiskell’s five-ingredient meals
This Mediterranean-inspired recipe comes together in a matter of minutes and is super easy to customize. Heiskell says you can use any other ground meat, or even a veggie-based meat alternative.
Looking to add presentation points to this simple salad? Heiskell suggests using shallow bowls for a weeknight dinner that looks super impressive but comes together in just three simple steps.
There’s no shame in the store-bought ingredient game! This pasta bake uses a package of tri-color tortellini that looks good and tastes even better when you mix in pesto, prosciutto and cheese.
If you’re craving comfort food, this Buffalo chicken baked sweet potato recipe will come in handy. Top it off with cheddar, ranch and, if you already have them on hand, a couple of green onions.
