We’ve all been there: it’s the end of a long day, and the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen cooking a complicated meal, especially when you’re flying solo. The good news is that there are countless quick and easy single-serving dinner options that will leave you satisfied and with minimal cleanup.

First, let’s talk about the holy grail of speedy dinners: the humble sandwich. Forget the boring, basic sandwiches of your childhood. We’re talking about upgrading the classic with exciting fillings and fresh ingredients. Think crispy bacon, sliced tomato, and avocado smashed onto toasted sourdough or a hearty pita stuffed with falafel, tahini, and crunchy veggies. With a side of potato chips and a pickle, your dinner is served in minutes.

Pasta also shines as a single-serving superstar. Forget the notion that you must make a vat of pasta. Instead, opt for a single portion of your favorite variety, whether it’s penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Boil it and toss it with a quick sauce made from olive oil, garlic, chili flakes, and perhaps some chopped fresh parsley or basil. If you’re feeling adventurous, add some halved cherry tomatoes or wilted spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

No time to make a sauce? No problem. A simple glaze of butter and fresh herbs (think thyme, rosemary, or tarragon) tossed with your cooked pasta creates an elegant, restaurant-worthy dish in minutes. Add some grated Parmesan cheese, and you have a delicious and sophisticated dinner for one.

For a heartier option, omelets and frittatas are excellent choices. They can be whipped up in minutes and are incredibly versatile. Throw in some chopped vegetables, cheese, and maybe a bit of ham or cooked sausage, and you have a well-rounded meal in one pan. Serve it with a slice of toasted bread, and you’ve covered all the food groups in one quick, easy meal.

Salads need not be boring, either. Think beyond the basic lettuce and tomato combination and embrace grains, roasted vegetables, and protein-rich toppings. For a single serving, try a hearty grain bowl with quinoa or farro, roasted sweet potatoes, chopped kale or spinach, and a tangy vinaigrette. Top it off with a fried egg for protein, and you have a nourishing, Instagram-worthy meal.

Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of leftovers. Cooking for one doesn’t always mean starting from scratch. Sometimes, the best dinner is enjoying the delicious leftovers from yesterday’s feast, be it a single serving of lasagna, a container of Chinese takeout, or a slice of last night’s pizza, reheated to perfection. So, embrace the simplicity and creativity of single-serving dinners, and enjoy your solo meals to the fullest!