Fixing a weeknight dinner: It’s stressful. Many of us are juggling work, a significant other, perhaps kids or pets. It’s enough to crave a glass of wine just to help you manage your time after a long and exhausting day. But cooking after work doesn't have to be stressful.

I share five recipes that are staples of mine, and they’re particularly handy on busy weeknights when the last thing I have time to think about is putting another meal on the table. Each comes together in under an hour, using a handful of ingredients, and making a minimal mess. Don’t have an ingredient? I offer substitutions. And while the ingredients list may seem a bit long for a couple of recipes, staples such as salt and pepper, or olive oil, or water, are almost in every kitchen.

So relax, pour yourself a glass of wine, and let’s put dinner on the table.