Weekly Meal Plan: 6 Quick Summer Dinners Under 45 Minutes

Emily Adochio
Aug 17, 2025
3 min read

It’s been so hot in Chicago this week, and while summer is winding down, it still feels like we’re in the thick of it. That’s why meal planning is such a lifesaver—not only does it help keep dinners organized and stress-free, but it also saves money (and no worries, that’s exactly why I’m here!). For example, this week I used prosciutto in two different recipes. It can be a bit of a luxury ingredient, but by planning ahead and splitting it across meals, it becomes way more affordable. Another reason to love this week’s lineup? These meals are quick! Most of them are 35 minutes or less, which makes dinner feel doable even on a busy weeknight.

🌯 Crispy Buffalo Veggie Burritos (Vegetarian)

These were super spicy—but so good! They’re stuffed to the max so you don’t miss the meat at all, and I added some mozzarella cheese for a little extra protein. The 45 minutes might sound long, but most of that time is just baking, so it’s very hands-off. These also make great leftovers or you can freeze them for an easy dinner later in the week.

⏱️ Total Time: 45 minutes

🥶 Perfect for making ahead since they freeze and reheat really well, giving you a quick dinner option later in the week without any extra effort

🐟 One Pan Cod with Couscous (Seafood)

This was the most popular recipe of the week, and for good reason—it’s all made in one pan, which means super easy cleanup! The Thai curry paste packs in flavor while the couscous, fish, and vegetables cook together, making it both healthy and filling.

⏱️ Total Time: 30 minutes

🍲 Everything cooks together in the same pan so the flavors blend beautifully, plus cleanup is a breeze with only one dish to wash at the end of the night

🥟 15 Minute Spicy Dumpling Salad (Vegetarian)

This one was inspired by the viral TikTok dumpling dinners, but I lightened it up with extra vegetables to make it more summer-friendly. It’s super spicy depending on how much chili sauce you use, so adjust to your liking. Bonus: it makes a great lunch the next day.

⏱️ Total Time: 15 minutes

🥗 Doubles as a refreshing, veggie-packed lunch the following day, so you get two meals out of one quick cooking session

🍗 Roasted Chicken and Vegetables with Za’atar and White Wine (Budget)

A classic roasted dinner with a summer twist! Everything gets seasoned and tossed in the oven, which makes it super easy. I loved the za’atar—it gave the dish a Mediterranean vibe, and the summer vegetables made it feel fresh and seasonal.

⏱️ Total Time: 35 minutes

💸 Total cost $23.78/$5.95 per serving

🧆 Baked Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Parmesan Couscous and Crispy Prosciutto (Chicken)

This creamy, cozy dish was a hit. I love baking meatballs because it saves time (I can work on the couscous while they cook) and fewer dishes to wash. It’s super kid-friendly with the meatballs and couscous, but still packed with flavor from the red pepper and parmesan.

⏱️ Total Time: 35 minutes

👩‍🍳 Great for families because it’s kid-friendly and easy to customize, while still having enough flavor and richness to keep adults happy too

🍝 Creamy Pesto Pasta with Crispy Prosciutto (Fun Meal)

This pasta feels indulgent but is secretly loaded with vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, and corn—perfect for late summer. The creamy basil-pesto yogurt sauce tastes gourmet but comes together in minutes without any chopping. It’s just as good served hot or cold, depending on what you’re in the mood for.