When it comes to cooking, sometimes less is more. That's why 5-ingredient wonders are a great option for those looking for simple recipes with minimal ingredients. These recipes not only save time but also make it easier to whip up delicious meals without breaking the bank. Let's explore some examples of these easy-to-make dishes:

1. Caprese Salad
3-4 ripe tomatoes (preferably vine-ripened or heirloom), sliced
1 pound fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
Fresh basil leaves
Extra-virgin olive oil
Balsamic glaze (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

This classic Italian salad requires just five ingredients: fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, olive oil, and balsamic glaze. Simply slice the tomatoes and mozzarella, layer them on a plate, sprinkle with torn basil leaves, and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze. It's a refreshing and flavorful salad that can be served as an appetizer or a light lunch.

2. Garlic Butter Shrimp

If you're a seafood lover, this r1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Lemon wedges, for serving
recipe is for you. All you need is shrimp, butter, garlic, lemon juice, and parsley. Melt the butter in a pan, add minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through. Finish off with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. Serve it over rice or pasta for a quick and satisfying meal.

3. Baked Parmesan Chicken
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup melted butter or olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

This crispy and flavorful chicken dish requires just five ingredients: chicken breasts, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and olive oil. Coat the chicken breasts in a mixture of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and garlic powder. Drizzle with olive oil and bake until golden and cooked through. It's a simple yet impressive main course that pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables or a salad.

4. Banana Oatmeal Cookies
2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup old-fashioned oats
1/4 cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)
1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans) (optional)
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Pinch of salt (optional)


For those with a sweet tooth, these banana oatmeal cookies are a perfect treat. Mash ripe bananas, mix them with rolled oats, chocolate chips, honey, and a pinch of cinnamon. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a baking sheet and bake until golden brown. These cookies are not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to traditional cookies.
These are just a few examples of the many 5-ingredient wonders you can prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create delicious and satisfying meals in no time. So, don't underestimate the power of simplicity in the kitchen!
References:
Food Network: 5-Ingredient Recipes
Taste of Home: 5-Ingredient Recipes
Allrecipes: 5-Ingredient Recipes