For the lazy cook like me, the tray bake has to be the ultimate dinner. I read a lot of recipe books and immediately turn the page if too much chopping or browning of meat is involved. A tray bake is perfect because I can pop it in the oven while I am driving my kids around. And bonus - minimal washing up! I also use the time to cook up some extra veggies for the next day’s lunch.

Here are 6 of my favourites (click on the heading to link to the recipe):

1. Oven baked sausages with ratatouille

This is a fabulous recipe for a night where you are tired - the oven can do all the work.  Our oven has a reliable oven timer so I often pop this on to cook while I am driving around to pick the kids up from rugby practice etc.  Bonus - it won't spoil if you leave it in the oven for 10 more minutes.

2. Flat roast chicken with lemon and herbs

I usually buy a pre-split chicken so I don’t have to bother with this part of the recipe. I like to add some asparagus to the tray for the last 5 minutes of cooking and I usually cook some sweet potato wedges along-side which take 35 minutes at 200 degrees.

3. Tray baked Salmon with green beans

Easy as, and perfect for a spring lunch with girl friends.

4. Roast tikka chicken, with cauliflower, carrots and potatoes

A simple Jamie Oliver meal, I like to add in 500g or so of carrots cut into large chunks, and use a few less potatoes to give the dish a bit more colour and reduce the carb load slightly.

5. Cider roast pork fillets with apple and fennel

Actually I tell a lie, this recipe does involve browning the pork. But hey, pork and apple is always worth the effort! You can add way more apple - it always gets eaten!

6. ROASTED PUMPKIN SALAD WITH CRISPY CHICKPEAS, POMEGRANATE AND MINT

Perfect for spring, and make sure you make extras for lunch the next day. I wouldn’t say no to the addition of halloumi!

So tell me, do you love a tray bake? Any favourite recipes I should check out?

Rachel is a university qualified Clinical Nutritionist based in Balmain.  She is also the busy working mum of two teenagers, so is practical and realistic with her advice . Rachel offers private consultations to improve your family's health and well-being. You can find her on Facebook and Instagram for more healthy tips and tricks.