Cooking

Cooking for One? These 9 Dinner Recipes Are for You

Me, Myself, and I will love these.

By Chanel Dror
maya bairn's simple halibut recipe

I never lived alone in my 20’s. I went from college roomies to post-college roomies, to living with my boyfriend, who then became my husband. Despite that, there are occasions when I’m flying solo so I’m constantly on the hunt for delicious dinner recipes for one.

It’s not a regret, per se, but I do wonder what it would have been like to be a young professional living on her own, even for just a few months. Friends of mine who live solo love it. Their home is their sanctuary—it’s peaceful and quiet and every inch of it is exactly the way they want it.

But there is one aspect that they all seem to struggle with: cooking for one.

I don’t blame them. Grocery shopping efficiently is a challenge no matter how many mouths you’re feeding, but shopping for produce when it’s just you seems particularly tricky. You either buy a whole bunch of veggies, only to have half of them go bad by the weekend, or you scale back, committing yourself to eating the same thing every day. So what’s a home cook to do?

We’d love to hear your tips on how you handle this modern conundrum, but in the meantime, we’re sharing nine dishes below that we think are perfect dinner recipes for one. Bon appétit!

best dinner recipe ideas for one

Heirloom Tomato Tart

It doesn’t get more delicious than this flaky and beautiful tomato tart. It’s easy to whip together thanks to frozen puff pastry and is as decadent and filling as it is light.

best dinner recipe ideas for one

Sheet Pan Spring Veggie Bowl With Yogurt and Herb Dressing

Have it for lunch, dinner, or both! Whatever you do, just don’t skip the dill. As far as dinner recipes for one go, this is a healthy and tasty option you’ll be craving for months to come.

best dinner recipe ideas for one

Baked Pesto Salmon With Broccolini

Looking to keep it fresh and healthy? This baked salmon dinner recipe for one is not only simple and scrumptious, but it’s an excellent excuse to head over to your neighborhood fishmonger and support a local business.

best dinner recipe ideas for one

Kale Sourdough Panzanella

I find it impossible to get through a fresh loaf of bread before it gets stale when I’m on my own. And believe me, I do my best to mainline bread at every possible moment. A Panzanella is the perfect way to use up those bits that are starting to get hard and DIY some croutons for this delicious salad.

best dinner recipe ideas for one

Sunday Night Avocado Toast With a Jammy Egg

Simple and fuss-free doesn’t have to mean lacking in flavor. This decadent take on an avocado toast is as good as it gets.

best dinner recipe ideas for one

Salmon, Cucumber, and Grapefruit Detox Salad

I love a salad for dinner on a hot summer night. This recipe doesn’t get overly complicated yet remains a filling and delicious alternative on those nights when you don’t want or need to throw together a big meal.

best dinner recipe ideas for one

Halibut en Papillote

You’ll think you’re at a high-end French restaurant when you sit down to enjoy this sumptuous fish dinner. Treat yourself to your favorite pinot grigio and savor every bite of this easy-to-make recipe.

best dinner recipe ideas for one

Hummus, Greens, and Avocado Bowl

You won’t be able to get enough of this healthy and tasty bowl filled to the brim with goodies. It’s filling, hearty, and ultra-tasty while also being as healthy and nourishing as can be.

Crispy Roasted Sweet Potatoes

There’s a reason this is Camille’s go-to dinner when she’s flying solo. It couldn’t be easier to make and it’s packed with flavor, nutrients, and leaves you feeling full and satisfied.

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 dinner recipes for one