Stir-Fried Seafood Udon Noodles

For nights when you're low on time, udon noodles are a great ingredient to have on hand because there's no need to boil them in a saucepan; simply separate the noodles by hand, then add them directly to your stir-fry for a one-pan dinner that's ready in no time.

Pork and Sauerkraut Dumplings

These savoury pork and sauerkraut–filled dumplings are low-fuss because we've replaced homemade dough with store-bought wonton wrappers. Look for them in the refrigerated section of your grocery store. Wrap any leftover wrappers well and freeze them for another day. 

Hoisin-Glazed Chicken with Five-Spice Broth

Reminiscent of Vietnamese pho, this noodle soup starts with a flavourful broth that takes a fraction of the usual time to prepare. Serve with lime wedges and Asian chili sauce on the side.

Cold Chicken Noodle Salad

If you're making this fresh and flavourful salad ahead of time, store it in a large shallow airtight container for easy tossing. Better yet, just close the lid and give it a good shake.

Smoked Trout and Salmon Rillette

This simple potted spread takes only a few minutes to put together, yet looks as impressive as it tastes. Instead of using a microwave, you can also cook the salmon in a little oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Grilled Romaine Hearts with Bacon & Blue Cheese Dressing

Sage Apple Pork Burgers with Caramelized Onions

Not your average backyard fare, these thick, juicy burgers, dressed up with lettuce and thinly sliced apple, are fancy enough for casual entertaining. And since you can make the patties and the caramelized onions ahead, they might become a weeknight grilling favourite, too.

Turkey Pot Pie With Cheese-Cornbread Topping

Leftovers from a turkey dinner are inevitable, and pot pie is a delicious way to serve them. Apples add sweetness to this not-so-traditional version and complement the easy topping.

Smoky Lentil Patties With Cucumber Slaw

This cucumber slaw is light and refreshing and best served as soon as it's made. Red lentils break down as they cook, making them perfect for the spiced patties. If using another kind of lentil, be sure to mash them with the back of a fork before mixing in other ingredients.

Pork, Corn and Black Bean Casserole

This family-pleasing dinner works equally well in your child's insulated lunchbox the next day. Wrap two large flour tortillas, avocado cubes and extra grated cheese separately. Don't forget a spoon so your child can assemble the sandwiches at lunchtime.