8 Irresistible Paneer Recipes You Can Prepare in No Time

Paneer, also known as Indian cottage cheese, is a staple in many Indian households. Loved for its soft texture and ability to soak up flavors, it’s a versatile ingredient that works in everything from snacks to main courses. Whether you're a student, a busy professional, or just looking for something fast and tasty, these eight quick paneer recipes (all under 10 minutes!) will come to your rescue.

1. Microwave Paneer Tikka

Bring the restaurant-style tikka experience to your home— minus the grill.

Ingredients:

• 200g paneer cubes

• 3 tbsp curd (yogurt)

• 1 tsp red chili powder

• ½ tsp turmeric powder

• ½ tsp garam masala

• 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)

• Salt, to taste

Method:

1. Mix curd with spices and salt in a bowl until smooth.

2. Coat paneer cubes in the mixture.

3. Microwave covered for 3–4 minutes.

4. Serve hot with mint chutney and a dash of lemon juice.

2. Masala Paneer Toast

A savory toast that’s perfect for breakfast or an evening snack.

Ingredients:

• 4 slices of bread

• 200g paneer, crumbled

• 2 tbsp tomato ketchup

• 1 tsp red chili flakes

• ½ tsp oregano

• 1 tbsp butter

Method:

1. Mix paneer with ketchup, chili flakes, and oregano.

2. Spread on bread slices.

3. Toast both sides in a skillet with butter until crispy.

4. Serve hot with salad or tea.

3. Paneer Wrap

Nutritious and portable — ideal for lunchboxes or a quick snack.

Ingredients:

• 1 tortilla or roti

• 150g paneer, diced

• ½ cup chopped veggies (bell peppers, onions, carrots)

• 2 tbsp mayonnaise or yogurt dressing

• 1 tbsp olive oil

Method:

1. Sauté paneer and veggies in olive oil for 3 minutes.

2. Spread mayo/yogurt on the roti or tortilla.

3. Add the paneer mix, roll tightly, and serve.

4. Chilli Paneer

Bold and flavorful, this Indo-Chinese favorite never disappoints.

Ingredients:

• 250g paneer cubes

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 1 medium capsicum, diced

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp vinegar

• 1 tbsp tomato ketchup

• 1 tbsp oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Method:

1. Sauté onion and capsicum in oil.

2. Add paneer cubes; stir-fry for 2 minutes.

3. Mix sauces and add to the pan. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes.

4. Serve hot.

5. Tawa Paneer

Spicy and aromatic, this griddle-fried paneer dish packs flavor in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 200g paneer cubes

• 2 tbsp curd

• 1 tsp garam masala

• ½ tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp red chili powder

• Salt, to taste

• 1 tbsp oil

Method:

1. Marinate paneer with curd and spices for 10 minutes.

2. Heat oil on a tawa and fry until paneer is golden on all sides.

3. Serve with chutney or curry.

6. Paneer Stir-Fry

A quick, wholesome option loaded with protein and vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 200g paneer cubes

• 1 cup mixed veggies (broccoli, carrots, beans)

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Method:

1. Sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant.

2. Add veggies and cook for 3–4 minutes.

3. Toss in paneer and soy sauce. Cook for 2 more minutes.

4. Serve hot.

7. Paneer Bhurji

Perfect for stuffing wraps or enjoying with bread or roti.

Ingredients:

• 200g paneer, crumbled

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 1 medium tomato, chopped

• 1 green chili, chopped

• ½ tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp garam masala

• 2 tbsp oil or butter

• Salt, to taste

Method:

1. Sauté onions and chilies in oil until soft.

2. Add tomatoes and cook until mushy.

3. Add spices and mix well.

4. Add crumbled paneer and cook for 2–3 minutes.

5. Garnish with coriander and serve.

8. Paneer Salad

Light, refreshing, and perfect for hot days or guilt-free snacking.

Ingredients:

• 200g paneer cubes

• ½ cup cucumbers, chopped

• ½ cup tomatoes, chopped

• ½ cup bell peppers, chopped

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp chaat masala

• Salt, to taste

Method:

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl.

2. Drizzle with lemon juice, sprinkle chaat masala and salt.

3. Toss gently and serve chilled.

These eight paneer recipes showcase how easily paneer can transform into delicious dishes — be it spicy, savory, or fresh and light. With minimal ingredients and maximum taste, they’re ideal for anyone short on time but big on flavor. Give them a try and add a tasty twist to your everyday cooking!