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31 Low Calorie Dinner Ideas

When it comes to low-calorie dinners, many people think that flavor has to take a backseat. However, with a little creativity, you can pack an impressive amount of taste into dishes made with lean meats, fish, and nutritious veggies. The key is to get creative with herbs, spices, and dried seasonings – these simple additions can make a big difference in the flavor department. And don’t forget about your kitchen appliances!

Using your air fryer or Crock Pot can not only reduce calories but also add excitement to your meal routine. If you’re looking for more ideas, consider incorporating beans and lentils into your low-calorie dinners. As protein-rich options, they’ll keep you feeling fuller for longer.

Best Low Calorie Dinner Ideas

Explore a wide range of mouth-watering, calorie-conscious dinner options that will elevate your cooking repertoire! Whether you’re looking for quick and easy meals or more complex dishes to impress family and friends, this diverse selection has got you covered.

Boursin Stuffed Chicken

Boursin Stuffed Chicken

Baked chicken doesn’t have to be a culinary snooze-fest. In fact, this creamy Boursin stuffed chicken is a game-changer! The key to its instant flavor boost lies in the garlic and herb-infused Boursin spread. This savory delight will be perfectly paired with crisp, fresh asparagus. To keep calorie counts in check, serve your baked chicken with a freshly tossed salad, ensuring a satisfying and healthy meal.

Chicken Zucchini Poppers with Creamy Cilantro Sauce

Chicken Zucchini Poppers with Creamy Cilantro Sauce

Indulge in the delightful combination of chicken zucchini poppers and creamy cilantro sauce for a satisfying snack that’s surprisingly low in calories. Each serving boasts an impressive nutritional profile: 204 calories, 16g of fats, 14g of protein, 2g of carbs, 1g of fiber, and only 1g of sugar. The flavor profile is dominated by garlic, chives, salt, and pepper, making it a perfect blend.

While the poppers themselves are already delicious, they truly shine when paired with the tangy and creamy sauce – don’t skip this crucial component for an optimal taste experience.

Black Bean Tomato Soup

Black Bean Tomato Soup

Indulge in the rich flavors of this healthy black bean tomato soup, which cleverly balances its nutritional profile with just 298 calories per serving. The delightful fusion of herbs, spices, and stock provides the foundation for this culinary masterpiece. To elevate it further, consider adding a splash of dry white wine or vermouth for an added layer of depth.

Complete your indulgent experience by garnishing with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips – or opt for crispy tortilla strips as a satisfying crunch.

Healthy Zucchini Turkey Burgers

Healthy Zucchini Turkey Burgers

When it comes to creating a healthier burger option, ground turkey is an excellent choice due to its low-calorie count. When paired with grated zucchini, you’ll be able to achieve a juicy patty without sacrificing flavor. The addition of lemon, herbs, and garlic will add a bright and refreshing twist to your dish. To keep the calorie count in check, consider serving your burger in lettuce wraps instead of traditional buns.

With just 188 calories per serving, this burger is not only delicious but also a guilt-free option. Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition facts: Calories: 188, Fats: 10g, Protein: 22g, Carbs: 4g, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 2g.

Rainbow Trout

Rainbow Trout
Rainbow Trout

A single serving of this recipe yields a nutritious and flavorful dish, with the following breakdown: 182 calories, 13g of fats, 20g of protein, only 2g of carbohydrates, and a negligible 0.4g of fiber and 0.3g of sugar. As an excellent alternative to salmon, rainbow trout offers a flaky, juicy texture that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

With its delicate flavor profile, this dish is elevated by the addition of pantry staples like lemon juice, garlic, black pepper, and paprika, which combine for a harmonious balance of flavors. Serve your baked rainbow trout alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to satisfy.

Chicken Wild Rice Soup

Chicken Wild Rice Soup

This wholesome and flavorful creamy chicken wild rice soup is a nutritional powerhouse. With only 243 calories per serving, it’s surprisingly low-calorie considering its rich and creamy texture. The secret to its velvety smoothness lies in the combination of regular milk and a starch thickener, which replaces the need for heavy cream. A medley of nutritious ingredients including carrots, mushrooms, sweet onions, and fresh thyme adds depth and complexity to each spoonful.

Low Carb Curried Riced Cauliflower with Shrimp

Low Carb Curried Riced Cauliflower with Shrimp

Per serving, this meal offers a nutritional breakdown of 183 calories, comprising 4g of fats, 26g of protein, 8g of carbohydrates, and a fiber content of 3g. Sugar levels are kept in check at 3g. To elevate the flavor of the cauliflower, a blend of spices including curry powder, cumin, and smoked paprika is used. Feel free to substitute with other pantry staples or experiment with different spice combinations to suit your taste.

The robust flavor profile of the cauliflower allows for a simple seasoning of salt and pepper on the shrimp. As an alternative, chicken or beef can be used as substitutes if you don’t eat shrimp.

Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta

Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta

Indulge in the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with this delectable pasta dish! With a mere 209 calories per serving, you can enjoy its delightful combination of spinach and sundried tomatoes. The creamy sauce is further elevated by the nutty taste of Parmesan cheese, making it an excellent accompaniment to pan-fried salmon. Wholewheat linguine provides a satisfying base for this hearty meal, which can be lightened up with extra sautéed spinach for added nutrition.

Nutritionally speaking, each serving boasts 11g of fat, 21g of protein, 6g of carbohydrates, 1g of fiber, and a moderate 3g of sugar.

Baked Chicken and Cauliflower

Baked Chicken and Cauliflower

In a single serving, this dish offers a satisfying balance of nutrients: 213 calories, 7g of fat, 26g of protein, 12g of carbohydrates, 2g of fiber, and 5g of sugar. While the ingredients are cooked individually at first, they ultimately harmonize beautifully when combined in a rich and creamy sauce with melted cheese. The golden crust that forms on top adds an irresistible appeal.

To complete the meal, serve your oven-baked chicken and cauliflower alongside fresh salad greens and juicy tomatoes.

Pan Seared Shrimp

Pan Seared Shrimp

With just 215 calories per serving, pan-seared shrimp is an exceptional low-calorie option for quick and easy weeknight meals. This dish takes mere minutes to prepare and can be adapted to suit various meal occasions. To elevate the flavor, a zesty lemon butter garlic sauce is used, with a hint of spice added from red pepper flakes and paprika. As a result, these succulent shrimp make an excellent choice for an appetizer or as part of a complete meal paired with noodles or rice.

Moreover, they are also ideal for adding to salads or grain bowls, making them a scrumptious low-calorie addition to any meal.

Carrot Ginger Soup

Carrot Ginger Soup

Indulge in the wholesome goodness of this Carrot and Ginger Soup, boasting an impressive nutrition profile per serving: 187 calories, 5g of fats, 3g of protein, 35g of carbs, and a notable 7g of fiber. The natural sweetness from 13g of sugar is balanced by the savory flavors of carrot and ginger. What’s more, this creamy soup requires no heavy cream – simply cook with potatoes and blend for a velvety texture. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with roasted Brussels sprouts for a satisfying meal.

Its nutty flavor and comforting warmth make it an ideal pick-me-up any time of the day.

Vegan Minestrone Soup

Vegan Minestrone Soup

This vegan soup is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients from its abundance of vegetables, whole grains, and lentils. With only 106 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free option for a quick meal or snack.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility – feel free to swap out any veggies you have on hand for your personal favorites. Sweet potatoes, winter squash, and fennel are all great options.

The base of the soup is made rich and savory by canned tomatoes and flavorful stock, while garlic, chili, and a variety of herbs add depth and complexity. For an added burst of flavor, consider serving it with a dollop of vegan pesto.

Tex Mex Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Tex Mex Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

When it comes to Tex-Mex cuisine, there’s no reason why it has to be high in calories. By making some simple swaps, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal. One such trick is to substitute spaghetti squash for traditional tortilla wraps. This not only reduces the calorie count but also adds a nice burst of fiber and nutrients. For the filling, combine black or red kidney beans with a medley of Mexican flavors.

Chopped onions, garlic, canned tomatoes, and chilies in adobo bring a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. Once your spaghetti squash is oven-baked, use it as a vessel to hold your tasty filling. Top it off with cheese and bake until golden and bubbly. With 291 calories per serving, this dish is not only delicious but also a guilt-free indulgence.

Shirataki Noodles with “Peanut” Sauce

Shirataki Noodles with “Peanut” Sauce

Shirataki noodles, a low-calorie and nutritious option, provide the following nutritional profile per serving: 57 calories, 1g of fat, 3g of protein, 9g of carbohydrates, 2g of fiber, and 4g of sugar. Their neutral flavor allows for flexibility in terms of flavor experimentation, effortlessly absorbing the taste of accompanying sauces. For instance, a paleo sauce made with almond butter can be paired with Shirataki noodles, creating a delicious and healthy meal.

When serving, consider complementing your noodles and sauce with raw vegetables such as crunchy sugar snap peas, juicy tomatoes, and zesty scallions for added texture and flavor.

Mini Sheet Pan Tostadas

Mini Sheet Pan Tostadas

A delicious and healthy party snack or dinner addition can be achieved by serving mini tostadas with a variety of tasty toppings. Each serving contains approximately 164 calories, with 7g of fats, 14g of protein, 11g of carbohydrates, 3g of fiber, and only 2g of sugar. For the quickest preparation time, consider using shredded rotisserie chicken to top your tostadas, along with refried beans, shredded cheese, and any other preferred toppings such as sour cream, diced red onion, and hot sauce.

The Monterey Jack cheese adds a delightful Mexican flair to this snack. Whether you’re looking for an easy party appetizer or a fun addition to your next dinner gathering, these mini tostadas are sure to be a hit. If you enjoy how easy this recipe is, you may also want to check out some other simple sheet pan recipes.

Cast Iron Pork Tenderloin

Cast Iron Pork Tenderloin

The nutritional profile of this pork tenderloin recipe is impressive, with 296 calories, 11g of fat, 44g of protein, 2g of carbs, and a minimal 1g of fiber per serving. The sugar content is virtually zero, making it an excellent option for those monitoring their intake.

To achieve the tender and juicy texture, a cast iron skillet is the ideal cooking vessel.

This allows the pork to absorb all the flavors from the aromatic dry rub, which combines salt, pepper, thyme, garlic, and onion powder for a savory taste experience. The addition of sweet, hot, and smoked paprika powders provides a subtle yet intriguing spiced flavor profile.

This dish is sure to impress your guests during any holiday celebration. Not only does it look stunning, but its exceptional flavor will leave them craving more. It’s the perfect centerpiece for your special occasion.

Air Fryer Oats and Beans Stuffed Bell Peppers

Air Fryer Oats and Beans Stuffed Bell Peppers

In terms of nutritional information per serving, the stuffed peppers offer a healthy balance: 68 calories, with a negligible 1g of fat, 3g of protein and 15g of carbohydrates. The fiber content is a notable 5g, while sugar levels come in at 7g. This makes for an appealing low-calorie meal option, where you receive the benefits of a whole bell pepper alongside a flavorful filling.

For this recipe, a combination of red kidney beans and oatmeal stuffing is used, joined by coconut yogurt and spices like cumin and paprika to create a delicious flavor profile. The versatility of stuffed peppers is another major draw – feel free to experiment with meat-based variations or swap out oatmeal for rice for added variety.

Teriyaki Soba Noodles

Teriyaki Soba Noodles

Teriyaki soba noodles stir-fry makes for a speedy and effortless midweek dinner solution. The dish gets its bold flavor profile from the harmonious blend of garlic, ginger, and teriyaki sauce. This recipe shines with the addition of vibrant vegetables such as carrots and red bell pepper, which add natural sweetness. Earthy undertones come from sautéed mushrooms, while edamame provides a delightful textural contrast.

Feel free to substitute other Asian-style noodles like ramen, udon, or rice noodles for a variation that still delivers on flavor and satisfaction.

Butternut Squash Soup with Bacon and Pomegranates

Butternut Squash Soup with Bacon and Pomegranates

This scrumptious butternut squash soup is perfect for the fall season. The nutritional breakdown per serving reveals a satisfying blend of 191 calories, 4g of fat, 4g of protein, 40g of carbohydrates, 7g of fiber, and 12g of sugar. As you prepare this hearty soup, start with the fundamental ingredients: sautéed onions, celery, carrots, garlic, and ginger. Sweet potatoes and apples can be added for a touch of sweetness, though they’re optional.

The finishing touches are up to you – try adding crispy bacon pieces and pomegranate arils for an indulgent treat that’s sure to please the whole family.

Vegetarian White Chili

Vegetarian White Chili

Within this vegetarian white chili recipe, a serving yields a nutritional profile of 63 calories, consisting of 3g of fats, 2g of protein, and 9g of carbohydrates. Additionally, it contains 2g of fiber and 3g of sugar. This unique chili stands out from traditional recipes by its creamy texture instead of being tomato-based. The dish is built upon a foundation of almond milk and vegetable broth, providing a rich and flavorful base.

A medley of colorful vegetables, including diced onions, bell peppers, jalapeno peppers, and yellow corn kernels, add depth to the recipe. For added flavor, minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder are used as seasonings. To achieve a thicker consistency, simply mash some white beans and stir them in. This hearty dish is not only delicious but also packed with superfoods that can elevate your overall health and wellness.

General Tso Shrimp

General Tso Shrimp

General Tso’s chicken is a beloved Chinese dish, but the new General Tso shrimp is an even healthier alternative. Unlike traditional recipes that involve deep-frying or breading, this version quickly sautés the shrimp, eliminating excess fat and calories. The result is a flavorful and spicy dish that still satisfies your cravings.

With 171 calories per serving, you’ll enjoy 6g of fats, 17g of protein, 12g of carbs, 1g of fiber, and 7g of sugar, all while savoring the robust flavors from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili sauce.

Apricot Salmon

Apricot Salmon

In just under 20 minutes, you can prepare a nutritious and satisfying meal by combining two simple ingredients: apricot jam and fresh salmon. To begin, spread the jam evenly over your salmon pieces. Next, bake them in the oven briefly before finishing with a quick broil to caramelize the jam. Serve the salmon alongside a freshly prepared salad for a well-rounded meal that’s both flavorful and filling.

What’s more, apricots are an excellent choice for a weight loss diet due to their low calorie count.

Veggie Brown Rice Ramen Stir Fry

Veggie Brown Rice Ramen Stir Fry
Veggie Brown Rice Ramen Stir Fry

Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors and textures with every serving of brown rice ramen noodles! Here’s what you can expect:Per Serving:- Calories: 291- Fats: 5g- Protein: 11g- Carbs: 51g- Fiber: 6g- Sugar: 7gThe subtle nutty flavor of these Japanese-style noodles pairs beautifully with a sweet and salty stir-fry sauce, crafted using brown sugar, soy sauce, and rice vinegar.

To complete the dish, add tender but crunchy veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas for a colorful and nutritious meal.

Bruschetta Chicken

Bruschetta Chicken

Indulge in the delightful flavors of bruschetta chicken, a quick and effortless recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Each serving yields a satisfying blend of nutrients, including 128 calories, 3g of fats, 13g of protein, 12g of carbohydrates, and a respectable 1g of fiber, accompanied by moderate sugar levels at 9g. To bring this dish to life, simply season chicken with a trifecta of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a rich, velvety coating that complements the savory flavors. The finishing touch comes in the form of a vibrant topping featuring juicy tomatoes, sweet red onion, fragrant basil, and a splash of olive oil.

Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks

Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks

Indulge in the sweet and savory flavors of these mouthwatering honey soy chicken drumsticks, perfectly baked to perfection in your air fryer. With a nutritional breakdown per serving that reads Calories: 257.94, Fats: 15.48g, Protein: 16.26g, Carbs: 13.31g, Fiber: 0.44g, and Sugar: 9.44g, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters in your family.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a show-stopping centerpiece for an outdoor summer gathering, these sticky drumsticks are guaranteed to hit the spot. And with their easy-to-make marinade featuring garlic, honey, balsamic vinegar, and soy sauce, you’ll be enjoying delicious results in no time.

Zucchini Noodles with Peanut Sauce

Zucchini Noodles with Peanut Sauce

Indulge in a guilt-free meal with this scrumptious recipe! Zucchini noodles, affectionately known as ‘zoodles,’ offer a low-calorie alternative to traditional pasta. A single serving of these nutritious zoodles provides:* Calories: 230* Fats: 4.5g* Protein: 4.5g* Carbs: 9.5g* Fiber: 1.85g* Sugar: 0gTo elevate this dish, you’ll craft a delectable peanut sauce using red Thai curry paste for a subtle spicy kick. Coconut milk adds a luscious creamy texture, making each bite a delight!

Greek Chicken Kebab Bowl

Greek Chicken Kebab Bowl

This mouthwatering chicken kebab bowl is not only delectable but also surprisingly simple to prepare. The star of the show is the juicy Greek-marinated chicken, which pairs perfectly with an array of grilled rainbow veggies. A key component of this dish’s flavor profile is the chicken marinade, replete with lemon juice and oregano that infuse a light, fresh taste. Smoked paprika, onion, and garlic add a spicy kick, further elevating the overall culinary experience.

To complete the meal, simply drizzle the kebab bowl with a refreshing minty yogurt dressing for a truly satisfying and delightful treat.

Grilled Chicken Kabobs

Grilled Chicken Kabobs

Savor the taste of summer with these nutritious grilled chicken kabobs, perfect for a light dinner or appetizer when entertaining friends. Each serving boasts an impressive nutritional profile: 238 calories, 16g of fats, 18.6g of protein, 8.3g of carbs, and a fiber-rich 1.6g. With no added sugar, these kabobs are a guilt-free delight. The vibrant combination of rainbow veggies – bell peppers, zucchini, and onions – adds a pop of color to each skewer.

Meanwhile, the marinade’s thoughtful blend of garlic, onion, paprika, cumin, and lime juice imparts a subtle depth of flavor with a hint of freshness, making this dish a true showstopper.

Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats

Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats

When it comes to satisfying meals that won’t weigh you down, zucchini boats filled with buffalo chicken are an excellent choice. With just 205 calories per serving, these tasty treats offer a great balance of nutrients. A single serving provides approximately 11g of fats, 22g of protein, and only 6g of carbohydrates, along with a small amount of fiber and sugar.

The combination of shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, sour cream, and ranch seasoning creates a flavor profile that’s both bold and creamy. To add some satisfying crunch, toss in some sautéed onion. Top it all off with a sprinkle of melted Monterey Jack cheese for the perfect finishing touch.

Slow Cooker Chicken Frito Chili

Slow Cooker Chicken Frito Chili

Indulge in this mouthwatering slow-cooked chicken Frito chili, packed with nutrients and effortless to prepare. Per serving, you can expect:* Calories: 168* Fats: a modest 2g* Protein: 22g, providing a boost for your muscles* Carbs: 13g, including 4g of dietary fiber and just 1g of sugarThis delightful recipe requires minimal prep work. Simply combine all the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it do its magic!

The result is a rich, spicy, and tomatoey base filled with hearty black beans and crunchy corn. Shredded chicken adds a delicate meaty flavor to balance out the bold flavors. Finish your chili by topping it off with crunchy Fritos and sharp shredded cheese for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Pan Seared Salmon with Spinach and Fennel

Pan Seared Salmon with Spinach and Fennel

This salmon dish is an ideal solution for hectic days when you’re in need of something both quick and satisfying. The distinctive fennel flavor complements the pan-fried salmon exceptionally well, creating a harmonious culinary experience. Savor your flaky salmon resting on a bed of buttery, garlicky fennel, spinach, and a dollop of naturally sweetened dill yogurt.

To round off this meal, consider following it with one of these scrumptious low-calorie desserts that provide the perfect sweet treat.