Have you heard of “girl dinners”? They can be anything from quick ramen in a bowl to a plate with cheese, nuts, and veggies. And we are totally embracing the low effort involved.

Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, a parent whose kids are off at camp and just need a chill night, or even just someone who appreciates a low-effort meal that tastes amazing, these girl dinners are sure to hit the spot. These recipes are quick to assemble, incredibly satisfying, and packed with flavor, proving that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to enjoy a fantastic meal.

And don’t let the title fool you; these recipes are for everyone!

So grab your favorite ingredients, and let’s dive into these delightful and effortless recipes!

1. Classic Fettuccine Alfredo by Charnie Kohn

To cook mouthwatering pasta, you don’t need much more than a few basic ingredients, so long as they are top notch in quality. Start with authentic Italian Tuscanini pasta and your job is halfway done.

2. Pierogi Nachos by Sara and Yossi Goldstein

Nachos are a great crowd pleaser! The cheddar-filled pierogies add additional cheesy goodness to the dish. Feel free to customize the toppings to your liking.

3. Lunch Board by Gitty Friedman

Boards are fun, and they’re the perfect way to get rid of all the extra bread, crackers, wraps, etc.—lay them all on a board with these yummy dips and enjoy!

4. Single-Serve Ramen Noodle Lasagna by Avigael Levi

This shortcut pasta dish hits all the comfort notes of lasagna – carbs, sauce, and lots of cheese. Yummy, delicious, and easy enough you can pop it in the oven after work.

5. Microwave or Betty Crocker Vodka Sauce Shakshuka by Sara and Yossi Goldstein

I love the little twist on classic shakshuka here using vodka sauce and Parmesan cheese instead of the usual tomato and feta. Of course the fresh herbs are optional, but I highly recommend them for a burst of freshness if you have access to them.

In this article, I shared some really delicious and comforting meals you can make using only one appliance to cook and heat like a microwave or Betty Crocker Pizza Maker. You can also make this in a toaster oven tray. Directions for each appliance are included below.

6. Whipped Feta Board by Leah Leora

This creamy whipped feta spread topped with red onions, olives, and other Greek flavors is delicious served with pita chips, your favorite crackers, or toasted baguettes.

7. Mom’s Tuna Pasta Salad by Rena Tuchinsky

It’s pasta salad season and my mom’s recipe is simple and delicious! Pair it with my Honey Lemon Iced Tea and it’s the perfect meal for a picnic out on a beautiful day.

8. Mexican Quesadillas by Jamie Geller

It is hard to find good kosher Mexican food. I got so tired of looking that I decided to make it myself. Quesadillas are a great light appetizer. You can fill them with almost anything.

9. Tuna and Salad Lunch Platter by Chaya Piatt

So many people right now are making “sheet pan dinners” because they are easy and healthy. I decided to add to this with what seems to be big in Israel right now: sheet pan lunches or “magash” (meaning tray). There’s a well known cafe in Tel Aviv where everyone seems to go to that is especially known for this style. I’m not certain of whether they are kashrut certified, but their food sure looks great. I tried to copy their style at home.