11 Recipes You’re Overcomplicating for No Reason

Cooking doesn’t have to be a challenge, yet some dishes seem more complicated than they really are. Next time you’re in the kitchen, take a step back and simplify. These dishes don’t need extra steps to taste amazing, so stop overthinking them.

Scrambled Eggs

You don’t need fancy ingredients or methods to make fluffy scrambled eggs. A dash of salt, some butter, and low heat will do the job perfectly. Skip the cream or extra steps!

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

This classic pasta dish has just garlic, olive oil, and spaghetti. Keep it simple! Toss with a bit of red pepper and parmesan, and you’re set. There is no need for extra sauces or complex additions.

Grilled Cheese

You don't need gourmet bread or five different cheeses. Use your favorite bread, some butter, and one or two types of cheese. Grilling slowly on low heat gives that perfect crispy, melty bite. Related recipe: Cranberry Brie Grilled Cheese

Guacamole

All you really need is ripe avocados, lime juice, salt, and maybe some diced onion or cilantro. There’s no need to add a dozen ingredients. Let the avocados shine. Related recipe: Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Pancakes

Pancakes are easy! Whisk together flour, baking powder, milk, melted butter, and eggs. There is no need for a fancy mix or tons of toppings. Drizzle with syrup, and you're good to go. Related recipe: Pancake in a Mug

Salad Dressing

Homemade dressing doesn’t need to be complex. A basic vinaigrette is just oil, vinegar, and mustard. Forget those long ingredient lists and stick to a simple mix for a fresh, vibrant salad. Related recipe: Greek Chopped Salad

Mashed Potatoes

All you need are boiled potatoes, a little butter, and some milk or cream. There's no need for fancy techniques. A simple mash, seasoned with salt and pepper, is always a hit. Related recipe: Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes

Stir-Fry

Keep stir-fries simple with just a few vegetables, a protein, and a quick sauce of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Skip the long marinating times and complicated sauces. Related recipe: Tofu Stir-Fry

Roasted Vegetables

A drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper is all it takes to perfect roast veggies. No need to add elaborate seasonings or fancy cooking techniques. You just need to sit back and let the oven do the work. Related recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Smoothies

Stick to a basic blend of fruit, a liquid (like milk or juice), and a handful of greens if you’re feeling healthy. Avoid overloading with superfoods or too many ingredients. Related recipe: Strawberry Spinach Smoothie

Tacos

You don’t need to load tacos with every topping under the sun. Stick to a tasty protein, fresh veggies, and a simple sauce or salsa. The key is in the balance, not in excess. Related recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos