50+ Easy and Wholesome Light Indian Vegetarian Dinner Recipes for Healthy Evenings

Eating light, nutritious dinners is a cornerstone of healthy living, and Indian cuisine offers an incredible array of vegetarian options to satisfy your palate without feeling heavy.

From fragrant lentil soups to fresh salads and wholesome flatbreads, Indian vegetarian dinner recipes combine bold flavors with a balanced approach to nutrition.

Whether you’re looking for low-carb meals, protein-packed options, or just something simple and quick, this blog is here to inspire your culinary journey.

Discover a curated list of over 50 light Indian vegetarian dinner recipes that promise to make your evenings flavorful, healthy, and enjoyable!

50+ Easy and Wholesome Light Indian Vegetarian Dinner Recipes for Healthy Evenings

Incorporating light vegetarian dinners into your routine not only promotes good health but also celebrates the rich heritage of Indian cooking.

With over 50 recipe ideas ranging from classic dishes to modern twists, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these recipes are easy to follow and guarantee delicious results.

So, why wait?

Start experimenting with these wholesome dishes today and treat yourself and your family to meals that are both satisfying and guilt-free!

Vegetable Upma

Upma is a comforting and wholesome South Indian dish made from semolina. It’s light, easily digestible, and packed with flavors from fresh vegetables and aromatic spices. This dish is perfect for dinner as it provides a warm, satisfying meal that doesn’t feel too heavy. The versatility of upma makes it a favorite across households, as you can easily adapt it with ingredients at hand.

Ingredients

• 1 cup semolina (sooji/rava)
• 2 cups water
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 small carrot, diced
• 1/4 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 green chili, slit
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 5-6 curry leaves
• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped coriander leaves (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions

1. Dry roast the semolina in a pan on medium heat until fragrant. Set aside.
2. Heat oil or ghee in a pan. Add mustard seeds, and let them splutter.
3. Add curry leaves, green chili, and onions. Sauté until onions turn translucent.
4. Toss in the carrots and green peas, cooking them for 3-4 minutes.
5. Add water and bring it to a boil. Add salt as per taste.
6. Gradually add roasted semolina, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
7. Lower the heat and cook for 5-7 minutes until the semolina absorbs the water and thickens.
8. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Vegetable upma is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Its balanced flavors and nutritional value make it a great option for a light yet fulfilling dinner. Plus, its quick preparation time ensures you can enjoy a delicious meal without much effort.

Palak Dal (Spinach Lentil Soup)

Palak Dal is a nutrient-rich dish that combines the goodness of lentils and spinach. This comforting recipe is ideal for dinner, as it is packed with proteins, vitamins, and minerals while being light on the stomach. The earthy flavors of lentils combined with the freshness of spinach make it a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup yellow lentils (toor dal)
• 1 cup spinach, finely chopped
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• 1 green chili, slit
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon oil or ghee
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped coriander leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Rinse and cook the lentils in a pressure cooker or pot with 1.5 cups of water, turmeric powder, and salt until soft. Mash lightly once cooked.
2. Heat oil or ghee in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté until golden. Toss in the green chili and tomatoes, cooking until tomatoes are soft.
4. Add the chopped spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
5. Pour in the cooked lentils and mix well. Adjust the consistency with water as needed.
6. Simmer for 5-7 minutes. Garnish with coriander leaves and serve hot with steamed rice or roti.

Palak Dal is a comforting and nourishing dish that perfectly blends flavors and nutrition. Whether paired with rice, roti, or eaten as is, it’s a delightful way to end your day on a light yet satisfying note.

Cabbage and Carrot Stir-Fry

This stir-fry is a quick, healthy, and colorful dinner option, combining the crunch of cabbage with the sweetness of carrots. It’s a simple dish that’s easy to prepare and ideal for those nights when you crave something light and flavorful. With minimal spices, this dish allows the natural flavors of the vegetables to shine.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 cup carrot, julienned
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 dried red chili
• 5-6 curry leaves
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon oil
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon grated coconut (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds, and let them splutter.
2. Add the dried red chili and curry leaves. Sauté for a few seconds.
3. Add the sliced cabbage and julienned carrots. Stir well.
4. Sprinkle turmeric powder and salt. Cover and cook on low heat for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but retain some crunch.
5. Optional: Add grated coconut and mix well before serving.

The cabbage and carrot stir-fry is a celebration of simplicity and freshness. It’s a versatile dish that can be paired with chapati, rice, or enjoyed on its own for a light dinner. Its quick preparation makes it perfect for busy evenings, while its vibrant flavors leave you feeling satisfied.

Moong Dal Khichdi

Moong Dal Khichdi is a classic Indian comfort food that’s both wholesome and easy to digest. Made with rice and split yellow lentils (moong dal), it is a perfect choice for a light dinner. Packed with essential nutrients, this dish is soothing for the stomach and can be customized with vegetables or mild spices to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup rice
• 1/2 cup split yellow moong dal
• 4 cups water
• 1 small carrot, diced (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon ghee (clarified butter)
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 2-3 black peppercorns
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Wash the rice and dal thoroughly.
2. In a pressure cooker or deep pan, heat ghee and add cumin seeds and peppercorns. Let them splutter.
3. Add the washed rice, dal, and diced carrots (if using). Stir well.
4. Add turmeric powder, salt, and water. Mix and bring to a boil.
5. Cover and cook for 2 whistles (or simmer for 20-25 minutes if using a pan).
6. Let the pressure release naturally. Stir gently and adjust consistency with water if needed. Garnish with coriander leaves and serve warm.

Moong Dal Khichdi is a true comfort dish that brings nourishment and lightness to your dinner table. It’s ideal for those evenings when you want a satisfying meal without feeling overly full. Pair it with yogurt or pickle for added flavor.

Lauki Thepla (Bottle Gourd Flatbread)

Lauki Thepla is a Gujarati-inspired dish that combines the goodness of bottle gourd with the convenience of a flatbread. These mildly spiced and soft theplas are light yet filling, making them perfect for dinner. They are versatile and can be enjoyed with yogurt, chutney, or a simple vegetable curry.

ingredients

• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup grated bottle gourd (lauki)
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger-green chili paste
• 1 tablespoon yogurt
• 1 tablespoon chopped coriander leaves
• Salt to taste
• Water (if needed)
• Oil for cooking

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients except oil. Knead into a soft dough. Add water if required.
2. Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a thin flatbread.
3. Heat a skillet and cook each thepla on both sides until golden brown, brushing lightly with oil.
4. Serve warm with yogurt, pickle, or chutney.

Lauki Thepla is a light and healthy dinner option that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Its soft texture and mild spices make it enjoyable for all ages, while its wholesome ingredients make it a guilt-free choice.

Vegetable Poha

Vegetable Poha is a quick and nutritious dish made with flattened rice (poha) and loaded with colorful vegetables. It’s light, filling, and perfect for a healthy dinner. This dish is not only delicious but also an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet effortlessly.

Ingredients

• 2 cups flattened rice (poha)
• 1/4 cup green peas
• 1/4 cup diced carrots
• 1/4 cup diced capsicum
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 green chili, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 5-6 curry leaves
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon oil
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves and lemon wedges (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Rinse the poha in water, drain, and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
3. Add curry leaves, green chili, and onions. Sauté until onions turn translucent.
4. Toss in the vegetables and cook for 4-5 minutes.
5. Add turmeric powder and salt, then mix in the poha. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with coriander leaves and serve with lemon wedges.

Vegetable Poha is a delightful and balanced dish that’s perfect for a light dinner. Its vibrant flavors and easy preparation make it an excellent choice for busy evenings when you want something quick, tasty, and healthy.

Paneer Bhurji Wrap

Paneer Bhurji Wrap is a light yet protein-packed dinner option that combines the deliciousness of spiced scrambled paneer with the convenience of a wrap. It’s quick to prepare, wholesome, and versatile, offering a balance of flavor and nutrition. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is a treat for both kids and adults.

Ingredients

• 1 cup paneer, crumbled
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 small tomato, chopped
• 1 green chili, chopped (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 2 teaspoons oil
• Salt to taste
• 4 whole wheat rotis or tortillas
• Chopped coriander leaves (for garnish)
• Optional: lettuce leaves or thinly sliced veggies for layering

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
3. Toss in the tomatoes and green chili. Cook until the tomatoes soften.
4. Add turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Stir well.
5. Add the crumbled paneer and mix. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with coriander leaves.
7. To assemble, place a portion of paneer bhurji on a roti or tortilla. Add lettuce or veggies, if desired, and roll tightly. Serve warm.

Paneer Bhurji Wrap is a delightful fusion dish that combines taste, health, and convenience. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something quick, filling, and portable.

Lemon Rice

Lemon Rice is a vibrant South Indian dish made with fluffy rice flavored with fresh lemon juice, aromatic spices, and crunchy peanuts. Light, tangy, and flavorful, this dish is a wonderful choice for a quick dinner. Its simplicity and zesty taste make it a refreshing meal for any season.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 green chili, slit
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
• 8-10 curry leaves
• 2 tablespoons oil
• Salt to taste
• Chopped coriander leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
2. Add curry leaves, green chili, and turmeric powder. Sauté for a few seconds.
3. Toss in the roasted peanuts and cooked rice. Mix gently.
4. Add lemon juice and salt. Stir well to combine.
5. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve warm.

Lemon Rice is an ideal light dinner option that’s quick, easy, and packed with refreshing flavors. It’s perfect on its own or accompanied by yogurt or pickles for a complete meal.

Vegetable Dalia (Broken Wheat Porridge)

Vegetable Dalia is a hearty and nutritious dinner option made with broken wheat and mixed vegetables. It’s rich in fiber and packed with essential nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for a light yet filling dinner. Its mild spices and soft texture make it comforting and easily digestible.

Ingredients

• 1 cup broken wheat (dalia)
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1/4 cup green peas
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger paste
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon oil
• Salt to taste
• Chopped coriander leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a pressure cooker or pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
2. Add onions and ginger paste. Sauté until fragrant.
3. Toss in the carrots and peas. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the broken wheat and roast for a minute.
5. Add turmeric powder, salt, and water. Mix well.
6. Cover and cook for 2 whistles in a pressure cooker (or simmer in a pan until the wheat is tender).
7. Garnish with coriander leaves and serve warm.

Vegetable Dalia is a nutritious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a light dinner. Its high fiber content and comforting flavors make it an excellent choice for those looking for a healthy and easy-to-prepare dish.

Beetroot and Coconut Stir-Fry (Beetroot Thoran)

Beetroot Thoran is a traditional South Indian dish that brings out the natural sweetness of beetroot, complemented by the nuttiness of grated coconut. This vibrant, lightly spiced dish is not only nutritious but also visually appealing, making it an ideal choice for a light yet flavorful dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 medium beetroots, grated
• 1/4 cup grated coconut
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 6-8 curry leaves
• 2 teaspoons oil
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
2. Add curry leaves, green chilies, and onions. Sauté until the onions turn soft.
3. Add the grated beetroot, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well.
4. Cover and cook on low heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add grated coconut and mix thoroughly. Cook for another minute and remove from heat.
6. Serve warm with steamed rice or as a side dish to chapati.

Beetroot Thoran is a simple, healthy, and flavorful dish that celebrates the natural taste of fresh vegetables. Its lightness and nutritional benefits make it a perfect dinner option for anyone seeking a wholesome and colorful meal.

Roti Pizza with Veggies

Roti Pizza is a creative and healthy dinner option that uses whole wheat roti as a base, topped with fresh vegetables and light seasonings. It’s a quick, customizable dish that satisfies pizza cravings without the heaviness of traditional pizza dough. Perfect for a light dinner, it’s also a hit among kids.

Ingredients

• 4 whole wheat rotis
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce or pizza sauce
• 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup diced bell peppers (green, red, or yellow)
• 1/4 cup chopped onions
• 1/4 cup sweet corn
• 1/4 teaspoon mixed Italian herbs or oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
• Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven or a skillet.
2. Place the rotis on a baking tray or skillet. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over each.
3. Arrange the chopped vegetables evenly on top of the sauce.
4. Sprinkle grated cheese, if using, and season with Italian herbs and chili flakes.
5. Bake in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 8-10 minutes, or cook covered on a skillet until the cheese melts and the veggies are slightly tender.
6. Serve warm, drizzled with olive oil.

Roti Pizza combines health and indulgence, making it a versatile dish for dinner. Its light yet flavorful profile ensures a satisfying meal without leaving you overly full.

Mixed Vegetable Soup

Mixed Vegetable Soup is a warm and nourishing dish made with an assortment of fresh vegetables. It’s a light yet satisfying dinner option, perfect for cozy evenings. Packed with vitamins and minerals, this soup is both delicious and comforting, offering a guilt-free way to enjoy a hearty meal.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1/2 cup chopped beans
• 1/4 cup green peas
• 1/4 cup sweet corn
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon olive oil or butter
• 3 cups vegetable stock or water
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper powder
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley or coriander leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat oil or butter in a large pot. Add garlic and onions, and sauté until fragrant.
2. Add the diced carrots, beans, peas, and sweet corn. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
3. Pour in the vegetable stock or water. Bring it to a boil.
4. Simmer for 10-12 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
5. Season with salt and black pepper. Adjust consistency with more stock or water if needed.
6. Garnish with parsley or coriander leaves and serve hot.

Mixed Vegetable Soup is a wholesome and comforting dinner option that warms you up while providing essential nutrients. Its light yet fulfilling nature makes it an excellent choice for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Sweet Corn and Spinach Soup

sweet Corn and Spinach Soup is a refreshing and nutritious choice for dinner, combining the natural sweetness of corn with the richness of spinach. This light soup is a perfect balance of flavors, with a creamy texture and a hint of spice. It’s ideal for those seeking a low-calorie, filling, and wholesome meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup sweet corn kernels
• 1 cup spinach, chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 3 cups vegetable stock or water
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil or butter in a pan. Add onions and sauté until soft.
2. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the sweet corn kernels and cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in the vegetable stock or water and bring it to a boil.
5. Add the chopped spinach and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the spinach wilts.
6. Blend the soup until smooth, adding water if needed to adjust the consistency.
7. Season with salt and black pepper, garnish with fresh coriander leaves, and serve hot.

Sweet Corn and Spinach Soup is a nourishing and flavorful dish that’s light on the stomach yet full of vitamins. It’s a perfect dinner choice when you want something comforting and healthy, without feeling heavy.

Masoor Dal with Jeera Rice

Masoor Dal with Jeera Rice is a hearty and simple Indian meal that pairs the protein-rich red lentils with fragrant cumin rice. It’s light, satisfying, and packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for dinner when you’re craving something wholesome but not too heavy.

Ingredients
For Masoor Dal:

• 1 cup red lentils (masoor dal)
• 1 small tomato, chopped
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 tablespoon oil
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)

For Jeera Rice:

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 tablespoon oil
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Masoor Dal:
   • Rinse the lentils and cook them in a pot or pressure cooker with 2 cups of water, turmeric powder, and salt until soft.
   • In a pan, heat oil, and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add onions and cook until golden brown.
   • Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft.
   • Mix the cooked dal with the onion-tomato mixture, add garam masala, and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Garnish with coriander leaves.
2. Jeera Rice:
   • Rinse the rice thoroughly and soak it for 10 minutes.
   • Heat oil in a pan, add cumin seeds, and let them splutter.
   • Add the soaked rice and water, season with salt, and cook until the rice is fluffy and all the water is absorbed.
3. Serve the Masoor Dal with Jeera Rice hot.

Masoor Dal with Jeera Rice is a wholesome, comforting meal that is light yet satisfying. This combination is perfect for a nutritious dinner, offering a balanced mix of protein and carbs while being easy to digest and full of flavor.

Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry

Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry is a quick and healthy dinner option packed with protein from tofu and nutrients from an assortment of colorful vegetables. This simple yet flavorful dish is low in calories, making it ideal for anyone looking for a light, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 200 grams firm tofu, cubed
• 1/2 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 1/2 cup broccoli florets
• 1 small carrot, julienned
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil or vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
• Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat sesame oil in a large pan or wok. Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté until fragrant.
2. Add the onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft.
3. Toss in the bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli, and stir-fry for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add the tofu cubes and soy sauce. Stir gently to combine, and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
5. Season with black pepper, garnish with sesame seeds and coriander leaves.
6. Serve the stir-fry hot, optionally with steamed rice or noodles.

Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry is a flavorful, nutrient-dense dish that is quick to make and satisfying without being heavy. It’s the perfect choice for a light yet filling dinner, offering a good balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!