11 simple dinner shortcuts

 Transform store-bought roast chicken by sautéeing it quickly with garlic and herbs. Get the recipe: Rotisserie Chicken Gyro

This rich, chunky bowl of kid-friendly corn chowder has layers of flavour (hi, leeks!) and goes from kernel to table in half an hour. Get the recipe: Corn Chowder with Chicken and Bacon

Dinner and tomorrow’s lunch in 25 minutes? The best. This easy puttanesca recipe can easily be doubled and tastes even better the next day, as the sauce soaks up the brininess of the olives and capers. Get the recipe: Tuna Puttanesca 

Green soup may be a bit of a hard sell, but its got smooth texture and sweetness working for it, plus lots of toppings, which will make your kid feel a little more in control. Get the recipe: Green Pea And White Bean Soup

So cozy and satisfying, try our version of egg drop soup, the traditional Asian dish of beaten eggs in hot chicken broth. Get the recipe: Chinese Chicken and Egg Drop Soup

Salad rolls are an easy dinner and a fun activity all in one. Teach the kids to roll their own! Using store-bought roast chicken for the filling makes for a speedy, no-fuss meal. Get the recipe: Vietnamese Roast Chicken and Salad Rolls

It pays to stock canned tuna in the cupboard for fast, lean, low-cost protein. Adding frozen peas to your tuna casserole is just as nutritious as fresh produce and are easier on the wallet. Get the recipe: The New Tuna Casserole

Forget the can, homemade vegetable soup can be on your table in just 40 minutes (using ingredients you likely already have on hand). Get the recipe: Easy Blended Vegetable Soup

Naan makes a speedy and sturdy pizza base. All you have to do is add the toppings. Get the recipe: Grilled Veggie Pizza

Many grocery stores stock pre-made pizza dough in the fridge case, but you could also try an Italian bakery or even your local pizza place. Kids will love helping with these calzones almost as much as they’ll love gobbling them up. Get the recipe: Calzones with Turkey Kielbasa

Strata is a warm, casserole-style meal that can be made ahead and popped in the oven for breakfast or supper. This yummy one is made with toasted croissants, sausage and plenty of cheese (use pre-shredded to save time). Get the recipe: Cheese and Sausage Croissant Strata

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