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Home » Recipe Collections

25 Light but Filling Meals for When You’re Watching Your Calories

Published: Sep 27, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

If you’re looking for a light but filling meals that don’t skimp on flavor, this roundup has you covered. Whether you’re trying to watch your calories or just want something that feels good to eat, these dishes are all about keeping things healthy without making you feel like you’re missing out. Easy to make and packed with great ingredients, each recipe strikes the balance between eating well and feeling satisfied. These are the kinds of meals that keep you full without weighing you down, perfect for when you want something tasty that won’t have you counting every bite.

An image of spaghetti squash casserole with a serving missing from the lower right side of the baking dish.
Spaghetti Squash Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Pinto Bean Soup

An overhead image of pinto bean soup in a green bowl with a spoon on the side.
Pinto Bean Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This pinto bean soup is a one-pot meal packed with hearty beans and spices, making it a nutritious choice. Perfect for when you're watching your calories, this recipe is quick to prepare and offers warmth on cold days.
Get the Recipe: Pinto Bean Soup

Savory Sweet Potato Casserole

An angled shot of savory sweet potato casserole served in a baking dish.
Savory Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Savory sweet potato casserole features sweet potatoes and garlic topped with a honey walnut mixture. This healthy alternative to traditional casseroles makes it an excellent option for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners when you want to eat light.
Get the Recipe: Savory Sweet Potato Casserole

Korean Pickled Radish

A close-up of a glass jar filled with small, cubed pieces of radish, seasoned with red chili flakes.
Korean Pickled Radish. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Korean pickled radish is a crunchy and tangy side dish that enhances tacos, sandwiches, or any Korean meal. Its quick pickling process makes it an easy addition, providing flavor without adding too many calories.
Get the Recipe: Korean Pickled Radish

Misir Wot - Ethiopian Red Lentil Stew

A close-up of a plate featuring misir wot.
Misir Wot - Ethiopian Red Lentil Stew. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Misir Wot, an Ethiopian split lentil stew, is infused with warm spices and can be served alongside flatbread or rice. Ready in about 45 minutes, this vegan dish offers a hearty, nutritious option while keeping calorie counts in check.
Get the Recipe: Misir Wot - Ethiopian Red Lentil Stew

Roasted Cauliflower Soup

An image of roasted cauliflower soup in a white bowl, with fresh thyme on the side.
Roasted Cauliflower Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Roasted cauliflower soup is a smooth blend of garlic, thyme, and cumin, creating a rich flavor profile. This nutrient-dense dish is a comforting choice for chilly evenings, perfect for those mindful of their calorie intake.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cauliflower Soup

Spaghetti Squash Casserole

An image of spaghetti squash casserole with a serving missing from the lower right side of the baking dish.
Spaghetti Squash Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Spaghetti squash casserole delivers all the cheesy flavor you crave but with fewer calories. Prepared in just 45 minutes, this dish is great for busy fall evenings when you want comfort food without the guilt.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Squash Casserole

Acorn Squash Soup

An image of acorn squash soup in a bowl garnished with thyme.
Acorn Squash Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Acorn squash soup combines creamy textures with savory flavors, and it can be prepared in under an hour. This easy recipe uses wholesome ingredients, making it a great addition to your fall menu for lighter meals.
Get the Recipe: Acorn Squash Soup

Chickpea Tuna Salad

An image of chickpea tuna salad in a bowl.
Chickpea Tuna Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Chickpea tuna salad serves as a quick and nutritious option for sandwiches or salads. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s a fantastic choice for those seeking a light yet filling meal.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Tuna Salad

Instant Pot Minestrone

An overhead image of a bowl of minestrone soup served in a white bowl, accompanied by a spoon on the side and a white cloth underneath.
Instant Pot Minestrone. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Instant Pot vegetable soup is a blend of fresh veggies and beans that cooks in less than 30 minutes. This nutritious dish is ideal for busy nights when you want a filling yet light meal without the hassle of long cooking times.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Minestrone

Zucchini Soup

An image of zucchini soup in a bowl.
Zucchini Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Zucchini soup is a quick and easy option ready in under 30 minutes. Its simple ingredients and smooth consistency make it a comforting meal that aligns perfectly with calorie-conscious eating.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Soup

Vegan Stuffed Peppers

A photo showing vegan stuffed peppers arranged on a white plate, set atop a brown cloth, with a fork and knife placed beside.
Vegan Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegan stuffed peppers are filled with a nutritious mix of quinoa, lentils, and assorted vegetables. This recipe highlights wholesome ingredients, making it a health-conscious choice for light yet filling meals.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Stuffed Peppers

Thai Curried Butternut Squash Soup

Top view of butternut squash soup with a spoon in it.
Thai Curried Butternut Squash Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Thai-curried butternut squash soup combines creamy coconut milk with fall spices. This easy-to-prepare soup offers comforting flavors while remaining a healthy choice for cool days.
Get the Recipe: Thai Curried Butternut Squash Soup

Baingan Bharta

An image of baingan bharta in a serving bowl, ready to be served.
Baingan Bharta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Baingan Bharta is a roasted eggplant dish that offers bold flavors and comes together in under 30 minutes. This light and nourishing recipe fits seamlessly into any fall comfort food lineup, keeping calories in check.
Get the Recipe: Baingan Bharta

Spicy Pumpkin Soup

An overhead image of spicy pumpkin soup served in a bowl.
Spicy Pumpkin Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Pumpkin soup with curry spices provides a creamy texture while keeping things light. Topped with crunchy pumpkin seeds, this dish is a perfect blend of comfort and health for your fall meals.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Pumpkin Soup

Mushroom Barley Soup

An image of mushroom barley soup in a bowl.
Mushroom Barley Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Mushroom barley soup offers hearty textures and nutritious ingredients, making it a cozy meal for cooler days. This easy-to-make recipe is packed with nutrients, bringing warmth and health to your table.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Barley Soup

Slow Cooker Butternut Soup

Overhead image of slow cooker butternut squash soup in a bowl.
Slow Cooker Butternut Soup. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Creamy butternut squash soup brings seasonal flavors to your fall meals. This easy recipe balances comfort with calorie-conscious choices, perfect for those chilly nights.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Butternut Soup

Sheet Pan Salmon and Asparagus

Sheet Pan Salmon Asparagus on a parchment paper lined sheet pan.
Sheet Pan Salmon and Asparagus. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Sheet pan salmon and asparagus cooks in under 25 minutes, providing a quick and healthy dinner option. Flaky salmon and tender asparagus come together for a light meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Salmon and Asparagus

Easy Vegetable Stew

A bowl of stew with bread and carrots.
Easy Vegetable Stew. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Easy vegetable stew is packed with wholesome ingredients and can be prepared in a straightforward manner. This hearty meal is a great choice for health-conscious eaters looking for a filling dish this fall.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegetable Stew

Italian Frittata

Close-up image of italian frittata.
Italian Frittata. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Italian frittata is versatile and can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables and proteins. This flavorful dish serves as a fantastic light meal, perfect for any time of the day while keeping calories low.
Get the Recipe: Italian Frittata

Deconstructed Egg Roll Soup

A picture of cabbage carrot sausage in broth soup..
Deconstructed Egg Roll Soup. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Egg roll soup transforms the classic flavors of an egg roll into a quick, nourishing meal. This one-pot dish features light ingredients, making it a comforting option that supports your calorie goals.
Get the Recipe: Deconstructed Egg Roll Soup

Roasted Curried Beet Soup

Glass bowl filled with healthy beet soup and topped with chickpeas.
Roasted Curried Beet Soup. Photo credit: Fitasamamabear.

Vegan beet soup blends roasted vegetables with creamy coconut milk for a flavorful dish. Topped with crunchy chickpeas, it balances nutrition with comfort, making it a perfect choice for your fall meals.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Curried Beet Soup

Orange Turkey Asian Lettuce Wraps

Overhead image of orange turkey asian lettuce wraps.
Orange Turkey Asian Lettuce Wraps. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Turkey lettuce wraps feature a sticky, sweet, and slightly spicy Asian orange sauce. They offer a light and satisfying meal that is easy to prepare, ideal for health-conscious dinner options.
Get the Recipe: Orange Turkey Asian Lettuce Wraps

Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice

A bowl of cilantro lime cauliflower rice.
Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Cilantro lime cauliflower rice is a quick side dish made with straightforward ingredients. This flavorful option is perfect for those wanting a light meal that still packs a punch in the taste department.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice

Zucchini Noodles with Creamy Roasted Tomato Basil Sauce

Close-up image of zucchini noodles with creamy roasted tomato basil saiuce in a bowl.
Zucchini Noodles with Creamy Roasted Tomato Basil Sauce. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These zucchini noodles paired with a creamy roasted tomato basil sauce make a light yet satisfying way to enjoy fresh summer produce. This quick and healthy dish is perfect for those looking to keep meals nutritious and low in calories.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Noodles with Creamy Roasted Tomato Basil Sauce

Chicken Noodle Soup

A bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup.
Chicken Noodle Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Chicken noodle soup combines tender chicken, nourishing vegetables, and herbs for a warming dish. This classic comfort food is a go-to recipe for healthy meals, providing warmth without excessive calories.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Noodle Soup

23 Low-Calorie Comfort Foods That Will Keep You Cozy All Fall

An image of acorn squash soup in a bowl garnished with thyme.
23 Low-Calorie Comfort Foods That Will Keep You Cozy All Fall. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Check out these 23 low-calorie comfort foods that deliver warmth and flavor for fall while keeping your meals healthy and light!
Read it Here: 23 Low-Calorie Comfort Foods That Will Keep You Cozy All Fall

Not Your Same Old Pasta Salad — Try These 21 Fresh and Light Ideas

A close up view of cooked tortellini pasta salad in a white bowl.
Not Your Same Old Pasta Salad — Try These 21 Fresh and Light Ideas. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Discover 21 fresh pasta salad ideas that are light, flavorful, and perfect for a satisfying meal without the extra calories!
Read it Here: Not Your Same Old Pasta Salad — Try These 21 Fresh and Light Ideas

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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