If you’ve got a fridge full of vegetables and don’t want to let them go to waste, these dishes put them front and center without making them the only focus. Paired with simple proteins like fish, chicken, pork, or shrimp, these meals balance freshness and flavor without needing a lot of extras. Roasted, grilled, stewed, or folded into foil packets, the vegetables in these recipes soak up spices, sauces, and juices for something that feels complete. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or want something that feels a little more layered, these dishes make the most of what you have on hand.
Oven Baked Fish with Summer Vegetables
This one-pan meal bakes white fish over a bed of zucchini, tomatoes, and peppers. The vegetables soften and release their juices, keeping the fish tender. A few herbs and a squeeze of lemon bring it all together. Light, easy, and fast to clean up.
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Pesto Chicken and Vegetables
Chunks of chicken and vegetables are tossed in pesto and roasted or sautéed until everything is coated and golden. The sauce adds big flavor without needing a long marinade. It’s good with pasta, rice, or on its own. Everything cooks in one skillet or sheet pan.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Chicken and Vegetables
Roasted Chicken and Vegetables
Classic and reliable, this dish roasts chicken pieces alongside carrots, potatoes, and onions. The flavors blend as they cook, and everything gets golden and tender. It’s the kind of meal you set and forget. A solid dinner that works year-round.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Chicken and Vegetables
Skillet Pork Chops with Vegetables
Pork chops cook quickly in a hot skillet, then get nestled in with sautéed vegetables for a complete meal. The pan drippings add flavor to everything. It’s fast and works with whatever vegetables you have. Easy to scale up or down.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Pork Chops with Vegetables
Vegetable Gratin
Layers of thin-sliced vegetables bake under a cheesy, golden crust. The vegetables soften while the top stays crisp. It’s a rich side dish or a meatless main. A good way to use up odds and ends.
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Broiled Shrimp with Vegetables and Sriracha Peanut Sauce
Shrimp and quick-cooking vegetables go under the broiler until lightly charred. The peanut sauce adds heat and richness. It comes together fast and tastes like more effort than it is. Serve with rice or noodles.
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Orange Salmon & Vegetable Foil Packet
This dish wraps salmon, citrus slices, and vegetables in foil and bakes them all at once. The steam locks in flavor and keeps the fish moist. It’s simple to prep and even simpler to clean up. Great for grilling or baking.
Get the Recipe: Orange Salmon & Vegetable Foil Packet
Easy Vegetable Stew
This stew simmers chopped vegetables in a seasoned broth until everything is tender and blended. It’s cozy, filling, and flexible depending on what you have. Serve with bread or over grains. Great for making ahead.
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Grilled Bay Scallops with Summer Vegetables
Scallops grill quickly and get served over lightly charred vegetables like corn, peppers, or zucchini. Everything cooks fast and gets a bit of smoke. A light dish that doesn’t need much seasoning. Serve as is or with a squeeze of citrus.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Bay Scallops with Summer Vegetables
Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken (With Vegetables)
Chicken and vegetables stir-fry in a thick, savory peanut butter sauce. It’s sweet, salty, and rich with just enough bite. Best served with rice or noodles to soak up the sauce. A fast way to satisfy a takeout-style craving.
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Beef Tenderloin Recipe with Winter Vegetables
This dish roasts a beef tenderloin over hearty vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and potatoes. The meat juices flavor everything as it cooks. It’s simple but feels special. A great pick for holidays or weekends.
Get the Recipe: Beef Tenderloin Recipe with Winter Vegetables
Dutch Oven Chicken Breast and Vegetables
Chicken breasts cook in a Dutch oven with broth and vegetables until everything is tender and infused with flavor. The steam keeps the chicken moist, and the vegetables soak up all the seasoning. One pot, no fuss. A comforting dinner with minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Oven Chicken Breast and Vegetables
