How to use your roasting tin for easy one-dish dinners

When you’re too busy to cook, it’s time to forget about fussy lasagne and reach for the roasting tin. Simply add chopped veg, your favourite meat or fish and seasoning, then pop it in the oven and put your feet up. 

Here are some tips to help you prepare the perfect tray bake.

Use the right pan

Choose the biggest one you’ve got. You need to be able to spread the ingredients out, otherwise they’ll steam instead of roast. Higher quality roasting pans distribute the heat more evenly.

Preheat your pan

A hot pan will give cooking a kick-start and encourage nice crispy edges. 

Aim to include…

Protein, vegetables and starch. This will make a well-balanced meal. If you’re missing one, why not serve with crusty bread, toss in some chickpeas, or add a handful of salad leaves? 

Choose the right protein

If you’re using meat or poultry, opt for smaller cuts like boneless chicken thighs, pork chops, sausages, koftas or meatballs. For fish, go for firm fillets such as salmon and tuna. Veggie options include tofu, pulses, eggs and cheese. 

Chop veg the same size

This will make sure they cook as evenly as possible. 

Timing is key

Firm vegetables such as onions, fennel, carrots and sweet potatoes will take longer to cook, so add them first. Some meats, such as chicken, may need a head start too. 

Season it

Whatever you roast, sea salt, pepper and rapeseed or olive oil should always feature.

Put our top tips to the test with these tasty recipes.