Quick recipes are my go-to because I rarely have time to cook during the day. I used to struggle to find fast meals that weren’t just reheated frozen entrees, so I started exploring online for quick kitchen techniques and reminders. That’s when I remembered Skillshare’s culinary classes — they offer many short, practical lessons that helped me pick up several time-saving skills.
I’m sharing three simple, tasty ideas that take only minutes to prepare: a great coffee routine, an overnight breakfast you make the night before, and an unforgettable grilled cheese. These were inspired by Skillshare classes and are perfect for busy mornings through a quick lunch or even a light dinner.
For those who don’t know, Skillshare is a global learning community with thousands of classes across DIY, food, fashion, business, and more. It’s affordable and easy to get started. I’ve used Skillshare for years and even teach a class myself about creating compelling tutorials, so I can vouch for both its value and variety.
Today’s picks cover: how to brew a better cup of coffee, a make-ahead breakfast (overnight oats) ready in under five minutes the night before, and what I now consider the best grilled cheese I’ve ever had.
Before Breakfast
But first — coffee. The class From Plant to Cup: Brew an Amazing Cup of Coffee is an excellent primer on brewing well. It’s taught by the Director of Training at a respected roaster and covers the fundamentals of making a great cup. After taking it, I felt much more confident in my brewing routine.
As for my personal touch, I like a splash of cream and occasionally a tiny drizzle of caramel sauce. Purists may scoff, but coffee is ultimately about what you enjoy.
Breakfast
Overnight oats are a game changer when mornings are hectic. Inspired by the Make Ahead Breakfasts That Will Change Your Day class, I adapted a simple, slightly sweeter version that’s ready after a night in the fridge. You assemble it in minutes the night before and grab it on your way out.
My overnight oats (serves 1-2): Mix 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt, 1 cup milk (any kind), 1 cup rolled oats, 1 tablespoon chia seeds, 1 tablespoon honey, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract in a bowl. Divide into lidded jars and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, top with fresh fruit and an optional drizzle of honey.
Lunch
I adore grilled cheese, and the Perfect Grilled Cheese class taught by a professional chef provides quick tips and short videos that refine the technique. One standout tip: spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the outside of the bread instead of butter. It browns evenly and avoids an overly greasy result.
Using the four cheeses recommended in the class — fontina, mozzarella, gruyere, and mild cheddar — I developed two favorite variations that taste exceptional.
Strawberry Fig Grilled Cheese: This is my top choice. Lightly spread mayo on the outside of each bread slice. In a bowl, combine a small handful each of shredded fontina, mozzarella, gruyere, and mild cheddar. Place half the cheese on one slice of bread, add sliced strawberries and a smear of fig jam, then finish with the remaining cheese and the top slice of bread. Cook in a frying pan over medium heat, flipping after about two minutes, until both sides are golden and the cheese is melted.
Apple Bacon Grilled Cheese: A savory-sweet favorite, especially with crispy bacon. Cook bacon until crisp and slice thin apple slices. Assemble with the four-cheese mix and mayo-smeared bread, then cook in a pan until golden on both sides.
Photography by Amelia Tatnall
Recipes and styling by Brittni Mehlhoff
That’s it — three quick food and drink ideas that are ready in minutes and designed to make busy days easier and tastier.
Which one sounds best to you? Will you try any of these?