Finding healthy, low-calorie dinner recipes that are both satisfying and delicious can be a challenge.
With so many options out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but eating light doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or nutrition.
In fact, there are countless creative and simple meals that allow you to enjoy a hearty dinner while keeping calories in check.
Whether you’re looking to reduce your calorie intake for health reasons, manage your weight, or simply want to enjoy lighter meals, we’ve got you covered with 25+ low-calorie dinner recipes that are perfect for any occasion.
In this post, we’ve rounded up an array of tasty and nutritious dishes that are easy to prepare, full of flavor, and low in calories.
From hearty salads and vegetable-packed dishes to lean proteins and satisfying stir-fries, these recipes will help you stay on track with your health goals without compromising on taste.
So, grab your apron and get ready to cook some flavorful, guilt-free dinners that everyone will enjoy!
25+ Flavorful Low-Calorie Dinner Recipes to Keep You Full and Fit
Whether you’re aiming to lose weight, maintain a healthy lifestyle, or simply enjoy lighter, more nutrient-packed meals, these 25+ low-calorie dinner recipes are the perfect solution.
Packed with fresh ingredients, healthy fats, lean proteins, and vibrant vegetables, each dish brings something unique to the table.
Best of all, these recipes prove that eating healthy doesn’t mean sacrificing taste or enjoyment.
So, try them out and discover just how easy it can be to create satisfying, flavorful dinners without overloading on calories.
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken with Steamed Vegetables
A light, yet flavorful meal that combines the zest of fresh lemon with aromatic herbs. This grilled chicken paired with vibrant steamed vegetables offers a low-calorie option without compromising on taste or nutrition.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, zucchini)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk to mix.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for more flavor).
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- While the chicken is grilling, steam the mixed vegetables for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
- Serve the grilled chicken alongside the steamed vegetables for a light, satisfying dinner.
This dish offers a perfect balance of protein and fiber, keeping the calories low while providing a filling meal. The tangy lemon and savory herbs infuse the chicken with flavor, making it an enjoyable option for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet.
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken with Steamed Vegetables is not only low in calories but also rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the vegetables. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a nutritious meal that is both satisfying and light. The combination of lean chicken and fresh veggies ensures you’re fueling your body with essential nutrients without excess calories.
Zucchini Noodles with Turkey Meatballs
This low-carb alternative to traditional pasta uses zucchini noodles for a lighter base while still offering the comforting feel of a hearty meal. Turkey meatballs bring lean protein into the mix, making this dish a great option for dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
- 1/2 lb ground turkey (lean)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup marinara sauce (low-sugar)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, mix the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Form the turkey mixture into small meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
- While the meatballs are baking, heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the zucchini noodles for 2-3 minutes, just until slightly tender.
- Warm the marinara sauce in a separate saucepan and pour it over the zucchini noodles.
- Serve the meatballs over the zucchini noodles and top with additional marinara sauce if desired.
Zucchini noodles are a fantastic alternative to traditional pasta, offering a lighter, lower-calorie base while still giving you the familiar texture of pasta. The turkey meatballs provide lean protein, and the marinara sauce ties it all together with flavor without piling on the calories.
Zucchini Noodles with Turkey Meatballs is a flavorful and filling dinner option that keeps the calorie count low. It’s an excellent choice for those trying to reduce carbs while still enjoying a comforting, satisfying meal. With lean turkey and fresh zucchini, it’s a balanced, nutrient-rich dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Salad
A refreshing and spicy salad that’s perfect for a light dinner, combining the rich flavors of shrimp, creamy avocado, and a zesty dressing. This dish is low in calories but high in healthy fats, protein, and fiber.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to make the seasoning for the shrimp.
- Toss the shrimp in the seasoning mixture, making sure they are evenly coated.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- In a large bowl, combine diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Add the cooked shrimp to the salad mixture, then squeeze fresh lime juice over the top.
- Toss the salad gently to combine and garnish with fresh cilantro.
This salad offers a burst of fresh flavors and healthy fats from the avocado, while the shrimp provides a lean source of protein. The spicy seasoning adds a kick, and the fresh veggies make the dish light and refreshing.
Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Salad is an easy-to-make, low-calorie dinner that’s both delicious and nutritious. Packed with healthy fats from the avocado and lean protein from the shrimp, it makes for a satisfying and filling meal. The fresh ingredients and bold seasoning make it an exciting dish to enjoy without any guilt, making it perfect for a light yet flavorful dinner.
Cauliflower Fried Rice with Grilled Tofu
This low-calorie version of fried rice uses cauliflower rice to keep the carbs in check while still offering a flavorful, satisfying dish. Paired with grilled tofu, it becomes a complete, nutritious dinner option that’s both light and filling.
Ingredients:
- 1 small head of cauliflower, grated or processed into rice-sized pieces
- 1 block of firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup peas
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium)
- 1/2 tsp ginger, grated
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions:
- Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into cubes. Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat and cook the tofu for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden and crispy.
- In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add the carrots, peas, and garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Push the veggies to one side of the skillet, pour the beaten eggs into the empty side, and scramble until fully cooked.
- Add the cauliflower rice, soy sauce, and grated ginger to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender.
- Serve the cauliflower fried rice topped with grilled tofu and garnish with green onions.
This dish mimics the flavors of traditional fried rice but cuts down on the carbs by using cauliflower rice. The tofu adds protein, while the eggs provide richness, making this a balanced and low-calorie meal.
Cauliflower Fried Rice with Grilled Tofu is a fantastic low-calorie dinner option that doesn’t compromise on taste. By swapping out regular rice for cauliflower, this dish becomes a light, nutrient-dense meal, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy and satisfying dinner without the heavy calories. The tofu adds a nice source of plant-based protein, making it ideal for vegetarians and those looking to reduce meat intake.
Baked Salmon with Asparagus and Lemon
This simple and elegant dinner combines omega-3 rich salmon with the fresh flavors of lemon and asparagus. Baked to perfection, it’s a low-calorie meal that’s packed with healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 2 salmon fillets
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh dill (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and place lemon slices on top of the salmon.
- Arrange the asparagus around the salmon on the baking sheet, drizzle with a bit of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The asparagus should be tender but still crisp.
- Serve the salmon and asparagus together, garnished with fresh dill if desired.
Baked Salmon with Asparagus and Lemon is a quick and healthy dinner option. The salmon provides an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, while asparagus adds fiber and vitamins, all in a low-calorie package.
This dish is a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy, low-calorie meal that’s rich in essential nutrients. The combination of salmon, asparagus, and lemon provides a burst of freshness and flavor, while the omega-3s and fiber make it a heart-healthy option. It’s an ideal dinner for anyone looking to eat clean without sacrificing taste or satisfaction.
Chickpea and Spinach Curry
A hearty vegetarian curry packed with protein-rich chickpeas and nutrient-dense spinach, this dish is perfect for a filling, low-calorie dinner. The combination of spices creates a rich, flavorful sauce that is both satisfying and light.
Ingredients:
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 can diced tomatoes (no salt added)
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft.
- Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the curry powder, cumin, and turmeric, allowing the spices to bloom in the oil for about 1 minute.
- Add the diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and spinach to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for 5-7 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
This curry is a flavorful, plant-based dinner that’s not only low in calories but also rich in protein and fiber from the chickpeas and spinach. The spices create a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for a light, healthy meal.
Chickpea and Spinach Curry is an excellent low-calorie dinner option that’s full of flavor and nutrients. The chickpeas provide a plant-based protein boost, while the spinach adds fiber and essential vitamins. The spices create a deep, aromatic flavor profile that will leave you satisfied without the heavy calories, making it an ideal choice for a light, healthy dinner.
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos
These vegetarian tacos are packed with fiber and nutrients, using roasted sweet potatoes and protein-rich black beans as the main filling. They’re a light yet satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor, thanks to a blend of spices and a hint of lime.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1/4 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
- While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat the black beans in a small saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
- Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
- Once the sweet potatoes are done, assemble the tacos by placing a few spoonfuls of sweet potatoes on each tortilla, followed by black beans, shredded cabbage, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime juice.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.
Sweet potatoes are naturally sweet and packed with vitamins, while black beans add a boost of protein and fiber. Together, they make a satisfying filling for these low-calorie tacos, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos are a delicious and filling dinner that’s both low in calories and high in nutrition. The combination of roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, and fresh veggies makes for a vibrant and balanced meal. Whether you’re vegetarian or simply looking for a light yet satisfying meal, these tacos offer a tasty and nutritious option without the extra calories.
Spaghetti Squash Primavera
This low-calorie pasta alternative uses spaghetti squash as a base, topped with a medley of colorful vegetables in a light garlic and olive oil sauce. It’s a perfect dish for those looking to reduce carbs while still enjoying a hearty, satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the squash halves face down on a baking sheet and roast for 40-45 minutes, until the flesh is tender.
- While the squash is roasting, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until tender.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Once the spaghetti squash is done, use a fork to scrape out the flesh, creating “noodles.”
- Add the spaghetti squash noodles to the skillet with the vegetables, tossing to combine. Season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Spaghetti squash is a fantastic low-calorie substitute for traditional pasta, and when paired with a colorful array of vegetables, it makes for a light and healthy dinner. The garlic and olive oil sauce adds a delicious depth of flavor without excess calories.
Spaghetti Squash Primavera is a perfect low-calorie dinner option that’s both light and flavorful. The spaghetti squash provides a hearty, satisfying base while the colorful vegetables add a boost of vitamins and fiber. Whether you’re looking to reduce carbs or simply enjoy a lighter meal, this dish is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pasta dishes.
Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with Quinoa Salad
This meal features hearty, meaty portobello mushrooms grilled to perfection, paired with a refreshing quinoa salad that’s light, satisfying, and full of nutrients. It’s a great low-calorie dinner option that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 large portobello mushrooms, cleaned and stems removed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions:
- Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium heat.
- Brush the portobello mushrooms with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill the mushrooms for 4-5 minutes per side, until tender and slightly charred.
- While the mushrooms are grilling, prepare the quinoa salad. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced cucumber, red onion, feta (if using), and parsley.
- Drizzle the quinoa salad with lemon juice and toss to combine.
- Serve the grilled portobello mushrooms alongside the quinoa salad, and enjoy!
Portobello mushrooms are a great low-calorie, plant-based source of “meatiness,” and quinoa adds protein and fiber. This dish is not only light but also full of complex flavors, making it an ideal healthy dinner choice.
Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with Quinoa Salad is a wonderfully light yet satisfying dinner that is low in calories and packed with nutrients. The grilled mushrooms provide a savory, hearty element, while the quinoa salad offers a refreshing, protein-packed side. It’s a perfect dinner for those looking for a healthy, plant-based meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Baked Chicken with Roasted Brussels Sprouts
A simple, healthy dinner with baked chicken breasts paired with roasted Brussels sprouts. This low-calorie meal is both flavorful and filling, perfect for anyone looking for a high-protein, low-carb option that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Place the chicken on the same baking sheet, leaving space between the chicken and the Brussels sprouts.
- Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and the Brussels sprouts are crispy and golden.
- Drizzle the roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic vinegar for an added touch of flavor, if desired.
- Serve the baked chicken with the roasted Brussels sprouts for a balanced, low-calorie meal.
This dish provides lean protein from the chicken and fiber from the Brussels sprouts, making it both filling and nutrient-dense. The simplicity of the ingredients lets the natural flavors shine, offering a satisfying and healthy dinner.
Baked Chicken with Roasted Brussels Sprouts is an easy and healthy low-calorie dinner option. The chicken provides lean protein while the Brussels sprouts offer a rich source of fiber and vitamins. The combination is perfect for those looking to eat light without compromising on flavor, making it an excellent choice for a nutritious dinner.
Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken
A refreshing, light salad that’s full of Mediterranean flavors, with grilled chicken breast as the protein base. This low-calorie meal is perfect for a light dinner that still packs a punch with fresh vegetables, olives, and feta.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- While the chicken is grilling, assemble the salad in a large bowl by combining the cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Once the chicken is cooked, slice it into strips and place on top of the salad.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken is a light, flavorful option that combines fresh veggies and lean protein. The tangy feta and olives, paired with the refreshing cucumber and tomatoes, create a satisfying and low-calorie meal that’s perfect for warm evenings.
This Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken offers a refreshing and filling low-calorie meal packed with Mediterranean flavors. The grilled chicken provides lean protein, while the fresh vegetables and feta cheese add essential vitamins, healthy fats, and flavor. It’s an excellent choice for a healthy dinner that’s both light and satisfying.
Veggie-Stuffed Bell Peppers
These colorful bell peppers are filled with a mixture of quinoa, black beans, corn, and spices, creating a filling yet low-calorie dinner option. The combination of ingredients makes this dish both hearty and nutritious, with lots of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
- In a bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff the bell peppers with the quinoa mixture, pressing down gently to pack them in.
- Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish. If desired, sprinkle a little shredded cheese on top of each pepper.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
These veggie-stuffed bell peppers are a nutritious and filling low-calorie dinner option. The quinoa provides protein and fiber, while the black beans and corn add texture and flavor. It’s a great plant-based dinner option that is as satisfying as it is healthy.
Veggie-Stuffed Bell Peppers are a colorful and nutritious low-calorie meal. Packed with fiber from the quinoa, black beans, and corn, these stuffed peppers are a hearty dinner that still stays light. They’re full of flavor and make for a satisfying, plant-based meal that doesn’t skimp on taste or nutrients.
Zucchini Noodles with Tomato Basil Sauce
This low-calorie dinner replaces traditional pasta with zucchini noodles, offering a light yet satisfying meal. Paired with a fresh homemade tomato basil sauce, it’s a flavorful and healthy alternative that won’t leave you feeling heavy.
Ingredients:
- 3 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their juices.
- Stir in the dried basil, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- While the sauce is cooking, spiralize the zucchinis into noodles. You can also use a vegetable peeler to make thin strips.
- In another pan, sauté the zucchini noodles over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until just tender, being careful not to overcook.
- Serve the zucchini noodles topped with the fresh tomato basil sauce. Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Zucchini noodles are a fantastic low-calorie alternative to pasta. The homemade tomato basil sauce adds a burst of freshness and flavor, making this dish light yet satisfying.
Zucchini Noodles with Tomato Basil Sauce is a perfect light and healthy dinner option. The zucchini provides a refreshing, low-calorie base, while the tomato sauce offers a rich, flavorful addition without adding extra calories. This dish is perfect for anyone looking for a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional pasta.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This quick and easy stir-fry features succulent shrimp and crisp-tender broccoli, all tossed in a tangy lemon garlic sauce. It’s a low-calorie meal that’s high in protein and packed with flavor, perfect for a light dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together. Stir in the lemon juice, zest, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 2 minutes to heat through and combine the flavors.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
This dish is a flavorful and low-calorie option that pairs the bright, fresh taste of lemon with the savory richness of shrimp and the crunch of broccoli, making it a balanced and satisfying dinner.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry is an excellent low-calorie dinner that’s rich in protein and nutrients. The shrimp adds lean protein, while the broccoli provides fiber and vitamins. The lemon garlic sauce adds a refreshing zest, making this dish a flavorful, light option for dinner without compromising on taste or satisfaction.
Eggplant Parmesan Bake
This lighter version of the classic eggplant Parmesan replaces the traditional breaded and fried eggplant with a healthier baked option. Layered with marinara sauce and a sprinkle of cheese, it’s a deliciously comforting and low-calorie dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup marinara sauce (low-sodium)
- 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bake the eggplant for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the eggplant is tender and lightly golden.
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer the baked eggplant slices on top, then spoon more marinara sauce over the eggplant. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Sprinkle dried oregano and basil over the top, then bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve.
This healthier version of eggplant Parmesan offers all the classic flavors but with fewer calories, thanks to the baked eggplant and moderate use of cheese.
Eggplant Parmesan Bake is a great low-calorie alternative to the traditional fried version. The eggplant provides a hearty base, while the marinara sauce and cheese add rich flavor without overwhelming the dish with excess calories. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for anyone seeking a healthier take on a classic Italian dish.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!