Day: September 12, 2025

22 Fast and Easy Autumn Recipes for Weeknight Meals

22 Fast and Easy Autumn Recipes for Weeknight Meals

# Simple Autumn Dinners: Warm, Convenient, and Absolutely Manageable for Hectic Weeknights

Autumn is a time that offers comfort, warmth, and a feeling of coziness, yet it also signifies the onset of a hectic period filled with school events, evening activities, and fresh schedules. Amidst the rush, cooking dinner can seem like a challenging endeavor. Thankfully, there are numerous straightforward autumn dinner recipes that are easy to prepare and provide a lot of flavor and comfort. Here’s a collection of some of the finest cozy dishes to cook repeatedly throughout the autumn season.

## Simple Autumn Dinner Recipes

1. **Instant Pot Spicy Short Rib Noodle Soup**
– Short ribs cooked in an Instant Pot or slow cooker, accompanied by soft noodles and tasty broth. An ideal favorite for chilly weather. [Recipe here](https://pinchofyum.com/instant-pot-spicy-short-rib-noodle-soup).

2. **Ricotta Meatballs with the Crispy Topping**
– Homemade ricotta meatballs baked with a crunchy topping. Pair with garlic bread or pasta for a fulfilling meal. [Recipe here](https://pinchofyum.com/ricotta-meatballs-with-the-crispy-topping).

3. **Chicken with Coconut Kale**
– A decadent one-skillet dish loaded with protein, served over rice for a hearty dinner. [Recipe here](https://pinchofyum.com/chicken-with-coconut-kale).

4. **Sausage, Kale, and White Bean Soup**
– A comforting soup featuring herby Italian sausage, kale, creamy beans, and potatoes, completed with a splash of cream. [Recipe here](https://pinchofyum.com/sausage-kale-and-white-bean-soup).

5. **Steph’s Chickpea Curry with Spinach and Rice**
– Creamy chickpea curry laid over rice, prepared in just 20 minutes. A speedy and gratifying dish. [Recipe here](https://pinchofyum.com/chickpea-curry).

6. **Red Pepper Cashew Pasta with Roasted Cauliflower**
– A filling meal made with a three-ingredient red pepper cashew sauce, roasted cauliflower, and noodles. [Recipe here](https://pinchofyum.com/red-pepper-cashew-pasta).

7. **Butter Chicken Meatballs**
– Chicken meatballs in a rich tomato sauce, made indulgent with butter and cream. A hit with families! [Recipe here](https://pinchofyum.com/butter-chicken-meatballs).

8. **Brandon’s Egg Roll Tacos**
– A fun blend of egg rolls and tacos, packed with crunchy vegetables and a spicy gochujang sauce. [Recipe here](https://pinchofyum.com/egg-roll-tacos).

9. **Shortcut Sesame Butter Noodles**
– Quick and simple noodles with butter, honey, and sesame oil for a delightful dish. [Recipe here](https://pinchofyum.com/shortcut-sesame-butter-noodles).

10. **Chicken Wontons in Spicy Chili Sauce**
– Tasty chicken wontons in a spicy broth, finished with sesame oil and chili crisp. [Recipe here](https://pinchofyum.com/chicken-wontons-in-spicy-chili-sauce).

11. **The Best Detox Crockpot Lentil Soup**
– A wholesome soup featuring lentils, squash, and kale, ideal for a set-it-and-forget-it dinner. [Recipe here](https://pinchofyum.com/the-best-detox-crockpot-lentil-soup).

12. **Gnocchi with Creamy Mushroom Sauce**
– Fluffy gnocchi in a smooth mushroom sauce, perfect for a cozy fall dinner. [Recipe here](https://pinchofyum.com/gnocchi-with-creamy-mushroom-sauce).

13. **Life Changing Instant Pot Beef Stew**
– An uncomplicated beef stew made with only six ingredients, ready in 45 minutes. [Recipe here](https://pinchofyum.com/instant-pot-beef-stew).

14. **Chipotle Tahini Bowls**
– Roasted sweet potatoes served with a smoky, creamy chipotle tahini dressing. [Recipe here](https://pinchofyum.com/chipotle-tahini-bowls).

15. **Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup**
– A creamy soup containing chicken and gnocchi, perfect for a comforting meal. [Recipe here](https://pinchofyum.com/crockpot-chicken-gnocchi-soup).

16. **Chicken Tortilla Soup**
– A simple yet delicious chicken tortilla soup that generates excellent leftovers. [Recipe here](https://pinchofyum.com/chicken-tortilla-soup).

17. **Three Cheese Baked G

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Alex & Sonja Overhiser: The Culinary Pair Behind A Couple Cooks

Introducing Alex and Sonja Overhiser, the energetic duo who have transformed their love for cooking into a flourishing online venture. As the creators of two renowned cookbooks and the founders of the well-known site A Couple Cooks, Alex and Sonja have been motivating home chefs since 2010 with their straightforward, seasonal meals and passion for the culinary world.

The adventure of A Couple Cooks commenced when Alex and Sonja chose to share their kitchen exploits with others. What began as a personal blog has evolved into an extensive resource for anyone wanting to enhance their culinary skills or seek inspiration for their next dish. The website now features thousands of original recipes, each thoughtfully designed by the couple themselves.

A significant factor that distinguishes A Couple Cooks is the couple’s dedication to simplicity and seasonality. Alex and Sonja hold the belief that cooking ought to be approachable and fun, rather than intimidating or overly complex. Their recipes are crafted to be straightforward, utilizing fresh, seasonal ingredients that accentuate the inherent flavors of each meal.

In addition to recipes, A Couple Cooks provides a plethora of cooking tips and meal planning suggestions, establishing it as a prime resource for busy parents and anyone wishing to optimize their time in the kitchen. Alex and Sonja’s pragmatic advice and inventive solutions assist readers in managing the hurdles of meal preparation, whether they are cooking for family or hosting a gathering.

Alongside their digital platform, Alex and Sonja have penned two cookbooks that further highlight their culinary knowledge and passion for food. These books are packed with delectable recipes and stunning photography, embodying their cooking philosophy and offering readers concrete resources to elevate their culinary skills.

As a real-life couple who cooks side by side, Alex and Sonja offer a distinct viewpoint in the realm of food blogging. Their partnership is apparent in every facet of A Couple Cooks, from the dishes they develop to the images they capture. Their mutual passion for cooking and commitment to their craft is evident, and it’s this genuineness that connects with their audience.

Currently, A Couple Cooks remains a cherished resource for food lovers worldwide. Whether you’re an experienced chef or a novice in the kitchen, Alex and Sonja’s welcoming approach and flavorful recipes provide something for everyone. With their assistance, cooking transforms from a mere necessity into a delightful and enriching experience.

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7-Day Nutritious Meal Schedule for September 15-21

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    **7-Day Nutritious Meal Schedule for September 15-21**

    As the weather shifts from summer to autumn, September presents an ideal chance to include an assortment of fresh, seasonal produce in your meals. This 7-day nutritious meal schedule aims to deliver well-rounded nutrition, showcasing a combination of proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Each day features breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a snack suggestion to help you stay energized and content.

    **Day 1: Friday, September 15**

    – **Breakfast:** Overnight oats with almond milk, chia seeds, banana slices, and a dash of cinnamon.
    – **Lunch:** Grilled chicken salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, and a lemon-tahini dressing.
    – **Dinner:** Baked salmon with a side of quinoa and steamed broccoli.
    – **Snack:** Slices of apple with almond butter.

    **Day 2: Saturday, September 16**

    – **Breakfast:** Greek yogurt parfait layered with mixed berries and granola.
    – **Lunch:** Whole grain wrap filled with turkey, spinach, hummus, and red bell peppers.
    – **Dinner:** Vegetable stir-fry with tofu, bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots served over brown rice.
    – **Snack:** Carrot sticks paired with hummus.

    **Day 3: Sunday, September 17**

    – **Breakfast:** Smoothie made with spinach, banana, almond milk, and a scoop of protein powder.
    – **Lunch:** Quinoa salad featuring black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and cilantro lime dressing.
    – **Dinner:** Grilled shrimp tacos accompanied by cabbage slaw and avocado on corn tortillas.
    – **Snack:** A mix of nuts and seeds.

    **Day 4: Monday, September 18**

    – **Breakfast:** Whole grain toast topped with avocado, poached egg, and a sprinkle of chili flakes.
    – **Lunch:** Lentil soup served alongside whole grain bread.
    – **Dinner:** Baked chicken breast accompanied by roasted sweet potatoes and green beans.
    – **Snack:** Celery sticks with peanut butter.

    **Day 5: Tuesday, September 19**

    – **Breakfast:** Chia seed pudding made with almond milk, topped with fresh berries.
    – **Lunch:** Spinach and goat cheese salad with walnuts and balsamic vinaigrette.
    – **Dinner:** Turkey and vegetable stir-fry paired with brown rice.
    – **Snack:** Sliced pear served with cottage cheese.

    **Day 6: Wednesday, September 20**

    – **Breakfast:** Scrambled eggs with spinach and tomatoes, paired with whole grain toast.
    – **Lunch:** Chickpea and avocado salad with cherry tomatoes and lemon dressing.
    – **Dinner:** Grilled steak served with roasted Brussels sprouts and mashed cauliflower.
    – **Snack:** Greek yogurt drizzled with honey and sprinkled with almonds.

    **Day 7: Thursday, September 21**

    – **Breakfast:** Oatmeal topped with sliced almonds, dried cranberries, and a drizzle of honey.
    – **Lunch:** Tuna salad on a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette dressing.
    – **Dinner:** Bell peppers stuffed with quinoa, black beans, and corn.
    – **Snack:** Dark chocolate squares paired with strawberries.

    This meal schedule highlights whole foods and seasonal ingredients, ensuring a wide range of nutrients throughout the week. Adjust portion sizes and ingredients as necessary to suit your dietary preferences and nutritional needs. Relish the flavors of September while adhering to a balanced and healthy diet!

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    Easy and Fast Tuna Wrap Recipe

    Easy and Fast Tuna Wrap Recipe

    **Create the Ideal Tuna Wrap with Creamy Tuna Salad and Crisp Fresh Vegetables**

    Tuna is often underestimated, but it’s a significant win for me! An affordable protein that needs no cooking and can last in the pantry for years? Count me in. This tuna wrap recipe offers a delightful and delicious method to refresh your healthy lunch routine: no cooking necessary.

    I appreciate how it elevates simple canned tuna into a dish that feels nearly gourmet. I’ve experimented with various versions of this idea, and this recipe consistently excels in three essential areas: taste, texture, and ease. In contrast to my Mediterranean tuna salad, which can be overly moist for wraps, this version achieves the ideal creaminess without causing the wrap to become soggy!

    **The Ideal Tuna Salad Base**

    Everyone makes a tuna wrap differently. This version is a twist on my traditional tuna salad filling, complemented with crunchy vegetables and rolled into a wrap. I prefer white meat tuna due to its cleaner flavor and firmer texture that stands up well inside wraps. Here’s my method for creating layers of flavor:

    – **Texture components:** Finely chopped celery provides necessary crunch, while green onions introduce a gentle bite that’s less intense than regular onions. The dill pickles add both texture and that crucial tang that lifts the entire blend.
    – **Flavor enhancers:** I mix mayonnaise with Dijon mustard rather than using mayo exclusively. The mustard brings complexity and keeps the salad from tasting bland. Dried dill contributes a pickle-like flavor and an herbal touch.
    – **The hidden ingredient:** My secret is a tablespoon of Parmesan cheese! It may seem minor, but it’s what distinguishes this tuna salad.

    **Advice for Purchasing Canned Tuna**

    Canned tuna has developed a bit of a negative reputation over the years, but it has numerous benefits as a healthy fish! Here are some key points to consider while shopping for tuna:

    – **Choose light tuna sourced by pole and line fishing**, which is the most environmentally friendly option. Light tuna from skipjack has the lowest mercury levels among all tuna varieties.
    – **Opt for BPA-free cans.** Look for cans that state they are BPA free. Alternatively, some tuna is now available in BPA-free pouches.
    – **Oil packed or water packed both work.** Some canned tuna comes packed in oil, while others are packed in water. Either is fine, but be sure to drain the can prior to use.

    **Perfecting the Wrap Technique**

    The distinction between a good tuna wrap and an exceptional one often hinges on assembly technique. I’ve encountered many soggy mistakes and learned through experience that a specific method yields the best results:

    – **Always utilize 10-inch burrito-sized tortillas:** Smaller wraps lack enough surface area to hold the filling properly, making them much harder to roll.
    – **Layer wisely:** Start with lettuce as the base layer—this creates a moisture barrier. Next, add the cabbage and pepper strips, then top with the tuna salad. This layering helps prevent the wet ingredients from contacting the tortilla directly.
    – **Employ the burrito rolling technique:** Use the folding method typical of burritos: first, fold in the sides, then roll tightly from the bottom. Don’t overstuff—it’s better to use a bit less filling and have a wrap that remains intact.

    **Innovative Variations and Alternatives**

    There are endless ways to customize this tuna wrap recipe! Use your preferred tuna salad recipe or incorporate different vegetables into the mix. Here are a few additional suggestions:

    **Storage and Preparation Advice**

    Another critical aspect of tuna wraps is how to store them. Here are the key points:

    – **Tuna wraps can make the tortillas soggy over time.** For this reason, I suggest preparing them no more than 8 hours in advance.
    – **Wrap the tuna wrap in parchment paper or wax paper for storage.** Avoid storing the wraps in plastic: this retains moisture and results in sogginess.
    – **Alternatively, refrigerate each component separately and assemble just before serving.** Prepare the tuna salad and chop the vegetables, then keep them in separate containers. Roll up the tortilla when you’re ready to eat. This method is perfect for office lunches! However, it should also be effective if you make the wrap in the morning and store it in parchment paper.

    **Common Questions**

    – **Why does my wrap become soggy?** Excess moisture from ingredients or improper storage often causes sogginess. Always drain the tuna well, dry the vegetables, and use paper for wrapping instead of plastic.
    – **Can I prepare tuna wraps in advance?** Yes, but with some caveats. Wrapped properly in parchment paper, they will maintain freshness for up to 8 hours in the fridge. For longer storage, prepare components separately and assemble when ready to enjoy.
    – **What’s the best type of tortilla to use?** I recommend 10-inch flour tortillas for optimal flavor and flexibility. Whole grain or grain-free options are also good choices, but avoid smaller tortillas—they’re too challenging to handle.

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