Donal Skehan’s five easiest “back to school” dinners

Let’s face it, just because the kids are back to school doesn’t mean you suddenly have lots of time for intricate dinners with all the trimmings.

Life is complicated and when you have a million things to do, cooking a delicious meal for the family to enjoy can be a real struggle. To prepare you for the reality of back-to-school dinners, we’ve asked the wonderful Donal Skehan to share his five easiest family dinners for chilly autumn evenings.

Whip them up in a flash for some quiet, happy tables (and even happier tummies!).

ICYMI: Join us for “An audience with Donal Skehan” in Dublin this September 6th!

1 Hot and spicy peanut butter noodles

A savoury Asian noodle recipe for all you peanut butter fiends out there.

“You can find lots of different noodles in Asian supermarkets, which would no doubt be delicious coated in this nutty sauce. But I love those packets of thick, worm-like udon noodles which just need a quick blast in a pot of boiling water.”

2 One Pan Lasagne

All the lasagne greatness with none of the fuss!

“This is not, by any means, an authentic lasagne recipe but it has all the important components; rich, meaty layers, cheese sauce and pasta sheets (without all the washing up). Make sure to get fresh lasagna for this as the dried ones won’t cook properly.”

Related: Donal Skehan’s dos and don’ts for hosting a successful dinner party

3 Broccoli and cheddar cheese soup

Perfect for using up odds and ends left in the fridge.

“This recipe makes a highly nutritious soup, which is taken to another level with the addition of good cheddar cheese. Try and get your hands on some good quality cheese for this one; it will make all the difference to the taste of the soup.”

4 Sweet and sticky balsamic chicken

Quick and easy midweek dinner.

“A dark and heady marinade made with basic kitchen staples. Ideal for any meat, but in this recipe, particularly delicious when used to infuse chicken drumsticks. Served with electric yellow saffron rice.”

5 Crockpot Moroccan lentil soup

Tieghan from Half Baked Harvest’s take on a cracking crockpot soup.

“A throw-it-all-in-and-forget-about-it soup that results in fantastic flavours.”

Tickets now available for “An audience with Donal Skehan”

Join us for an evening with Donal Skehan at the Alex Hotel on Thursday, September 6 to celebrate the launch of his brand new book – Meals in Minutes.

WHEN  Thursday, September 6

Drinks & canapés from 6.30pm

WHERE The Alex Hotel, Dublin

TICKETS €45*

*Including gift bag & treats for all plus a few surprises along the way!

#IMAGEXDonalSkehan

To book tickets, click here and for all enquiries call 01 271 9609