If you’re pressed for time but craving a delicious and protein-packed vegetarian snack or meal, paneer is your best friend. This versatile Indian cheese cooks quickly and pairs wonderfully with a variety of spices and vegetables.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook looking for quick fixes, these 5-minute paneer recipes will satisfy your taste buds without keeping you in the kitchen for long. From spicy stir-fries to tangy salads, paneer’s mild flavor absorbs the essence of every seasoning, making it a perfect canvas for creative culinary adventures.
In this post, I’ll share five quick and easy paneer recipes that you can whip up in just five minutes! These dishes are perfect for busy weekdays, last-minute guests, or even a quick snack.
Plus, they’re all vegetarian and packed with flavor. Ready to get cooking?
Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These 5-minute paneer recipes are designed for ultimate convenience without compromising on taste. Each dish uses simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry or fridge.
Paneer is not only rich in protein but also offers a creamy texture that complements bold spices perfectly. Whether you want something spicy, tangy, or savory, there’s a recipe here for every mood.
Best of all, these recipes are highly customizable! You can easily add your favorite veggies or swap spices to suit your palate.
Plus, cooking paneer quickly helps retain its soft texture, making your dish irresistibly satisfying. If you’re looking for easy, healthy vegetarian options that come together in minutes, these recipes will quickly become your go-to favorites.
Ingredients
- Paneer – 200 grams, cut into cubes
- Oil or ghee – 1 tablespoon
- Spices (turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, cumin seeds)
- Salt – to taste
- Fresh herbs (cilantro or mint), chopped
- Vegetables like bell peppers, onions, tomatoes (optional)
- Lemon juice – 1 teaspoon
- Yogurt or cream (for creamy variations)
Equipment
- Non-stick frying pan or skillet
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
Instructions
- Prepare the paneer: Cut the paneer into bite-sized cubes or desired shapes. If you like, lightly fry them in a teaspoon of oil until golden for extra texture.
- Heat the pan: Warm 1 tablespoon of oil or ghee on medium heat in a non-stick pan.
- Add spices: Toss in cumin seeds (if using) and let them sizzle for a few seconds. Then add turmeric, chili powder, and garam masala according to your taste.
- Sauté veggies (optional): For recipes with vegetables, add chopped onions, bell peppers, or tomatoes. Cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender.
- Add paneer: Add the paneer cubes to the pan, mixing gently to coat them with the spices and veggies. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Finish with herbs and lemon: Turn off heat and sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or mint. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
- Serve hot: Enjoy your quick paneer dish as a snack, side, or main with your favorite bread or rice.
Tips & Variations
Tip: Use fresh paneer for the best texture. If you only have store-bought paneer, soak it in warm water for 10 minutes before use to soften it up.
Feel free to experiment with different spice blends like chaat masala, curry powder, or even Italian herbs for fusion flavors. Adding a dollop of yogurt or cream at the end makes the dish wonderfully creamy and rich.
For a no-cook option, try tossing paneer cubes with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, a pinch of chaat masala, and fresh herbs for a refreshing salad.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 14 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Carbohydrates | 4 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Serve your quick paneer dishes with warm bread and gravy or fluffy basmati rice for a filling meal. Pair it with a fresh salad or a cooling yogurt raita to balance the spices.
For a snack, enjoy with some crunchy papad or tortilla chips.
If you’re interested in more quick vegetarian dishes, check out my Ww Appetizer Recipes that are easy and flavorful. Or for breakfast ideas that go well with paneer dishes, try the Breakfast Wellington Recipe.
5 Quick Paneer Recipes You Can Make in 5 Minutes
Spicy Paneer Stir-Fry
This vibrant stir-fry packs a punch with chili powder, cumin, and garam masala. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
- Ingredients: Paneer cubes, bell peppers, onions, chili powder, cumin seeds, salt, oil, fresh cilantro.
- Instructions: Heat oil, add cumin seeds, then onions and peppers. Add spices, paneer, and cook until coated. Garnish with cilantro.
Tangy Paneer Salad
A refreshing no-cook option mixing paneer cubes with cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, chaat masala, lemon juice, and fresh mint.
- Ingredients: Paneer, cucumber, tomato, onion, chaat masala, lemon juice, mint leaves, salt.
- Instructions: Toss all ingredients gently in a bowl and serve chilled.
Creamy Paneer Curry
Use yogurt or cream to quickly create a rich, mildly spiced curry that’s ready in minutes.
- Ingredients: Paneer, yogurt, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, salt, oil, tomatoes.
- Instructions: Heat oil, add tomatoes and spices, then stir in yogurt. Add paneer cubes and cook for 2 minutes.
Paneer Tikka Masala (Quick Version)
A speedy take on the classic with ready-made tikka masala paste and grilled paneer cubes.
- Ingredients: Paneer, tikka masala paste, oil, fresh coriander.
- Instructions: Sauté paneer in oil, add tikka masala paste, cook for 2 minutes, garnish with coriander.
Masala Paneer Wraps
Wrap spiced paneer cubes, onions, and chutney in a warm tortilla or roti for an easy handheld meal.
- Ingredients: Paneer, masala spices, onions, green chutney, tortillas or rotis.
- Instructions: Cook paneer with spices, assemble in wraps with onions and chutney.
Conclusion
These 5-minute paneer recipes prove that you don’t need hours to enjoy flavorful and nutritious vegetarian meals. Paneer’s versatility and quick cooking time make it an excellent choice for busy days or last-minute cravings.
From spicy stir-fries to fresh salads and creamy curries, these recipes cater to a variety of tastes and occasions.
By keeping your pantry stocked with paneer and a few key spices, you can easily whip up satisfying dishes that impress family and friends alike. Don’t forget to explore other quick and delicious recipes on the site, like the Bread And Gravy Recipe or the WW Appetizer Recipes for more inspiration.
Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: 5 Minutes Paneer Recipes Vegetarian
Description: Quick and delicious paneer recipes perfect for a fast vegetarian meal. Ready in just 5 minutes with minimal ingredients.
Prep Time: PT3M
Cook Time: PT2M
Total Time: PT5M
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 200g paneer, cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped coriander leaves
- 1 small tomato, finely chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Add tomatoes and cook for 1 minute.
- Add red chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, and salt.
- Add paneer cubes and toss well to coat with spices.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes until paneer is warm.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 18 g | Fat: 20 g | Carbs: 6 g
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