If you’re like a lot of people, schedules become quite a bit more rushed when school is back in session. There’s carpooling, after school sports and activities, plus homework – all taking chunks out of what little time we have. With all those culprits eating up the hours in the day, easy dinners can help…

A family favorite in our house is angel hair pasta with shrimp. For this one, all you need to do is sauté your shrimp until pink in olive oil and butter, add to cooked angel hair pasta (or whatever pasta you prefer), top with shaved parmesan and fresh basil and mangia!

A sheet pan full of your favorite roasted veggies served with baked chicken breasts is always a quick and healthy go-to.

Another fast-prep dinner is fajitas, which you can have any way you like. Choose your protein. Beef, chicken and shrimp are all great choices. Then just spice it up with fajita spice according to the directions on the packet and serve with warm tortillas, sauteed peppers and onions, shredded cheese and salsa on the side. Sour cream and guacamole are also nice additions.

Or go Asian and stir-fry chicken, shrimp or beef in stir-fry sauce with a bag of frozen Asian vegetables and serve with rice.

Whichever you choose, you’ll be done in time for Idol! Enjoy!