21 Healthy Recipes Under 500 Calories

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No matter when you eat your biggest meal of the day, your calories should still work for you. These meals are jam-packed with nutrients — from energy-sustaining protein to disease-fighting antioxidants — while still ensuring you keep calorie counts low. Each of these comforting and filling meals are under 500 calories, meaning you'll be full and satisfied afterward without sacrificing weight-loss goals. Read on for the recipes!



Zucchini Noodles Aglio et Olio
For those days when you're craving nothing but pasta, reach for a huge bowl of this garlicky zucchini pasta dish. A sprinkle of almond meal instead of breadcrumbs takes this recipe over the top.  Get The Recipe

Cauliflower Crust Pizza
Yes, you can eat half a pizza without guilt. This cauliflower crust pizza features a gluten-free crust and fresh tomatoes, skim mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves for a healthy take on a classic.  Get The Recipe

Fried rice should definitely not be on anyone's healthy-eating menu, so get the taste — and kill the cravings — with this paleo perfect cauliflower fried "rice" recipe instead. Get The Recipe

No-Mac and Cheese
What's the secret to making a pasta-less mac and cheese just as irresistible as the classic? Cauliflower, the perfect vehicle for a cheesy, creamy sauce made from cheese, coconut milk, butter, and coconut flour. While this gluten-free no-mac and cheese is under 400 calories, note that it's high in saturated fat, so enjoy this comforting dish in moderation. Get The Recipe

Paleo Meatballs
Serve these paleo meatballs on a salad or bed of zucchini noodles, and you'll still hit your under-500 calorie goal.  Get The Recipe

Turmeric-Spiced Mushroom Pilaf
Turmeric might just be a super spice: it's been known to boost immunity, relieve digestive discomfort, and possibly prevent disease. This turmeric-spiced mushroom pilaf is made with a generous dose of turmeric added to a brown rice and mushroom mixture. The result is a mildly spicy, satisfying one-pot meal that helps you feel your best. Get The Recipe

Thai Peanut Soba Noodles
Make this Thai-inspired soba noodle salad for dinner, enjoy it for lunch the next day. The flavors develop with time, making this protein-rich and fiber-full cold dish perfect as leftovers. Get The Recipe

Healthy Chicken Salad
Traditional chicken salad clocks in at 500 calories, but this healthy chicken salad is 139 calories a serving. The secret? A simple swap of Greek yogurt for mayo. Serve with one or two slices of bread (like wheat bread, 220 calories for two slices). Get The Recipe

Spaghetti Carbonara
Lighten up traditional carbonara with this whole wheat spaghetti carbonara made with low-fat milk and, yes, a healthy dose of parmesan cheese. Get The Recipe

Sweet Potato, Chickpea, and Quinoa Burger
This sweet potato, chickpea, and quinoa veggie burger is perfectly spiced and completely satisfying. At 202 calories per patty, you can add a 120-calorie whole wheat bun and lettuce, tomato, and ketchup (34 calories) and still come in at well under 500 calories. Get The Recipe

Red Pepper and Lentil Bake
High in vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber, red bell peppers make a perfect accompaniment to protein-rich lentils in this low-calorie recipe. Even better news? You'll be surprised at how large an under-250-calorie portion of this cheesy red pepper and lentil bake really is. Get The Recipe

Chirashi Bowl
A light, refreshing meal is perfect for hot Summer days. Try this chirashi bowl, made with fresh vegetables, brown rice, and sushi-grade tuna, to cool off in the heat. Get The Recipe

Cheddar Soup
A hearty bowl of creamy cheddar soup can soothe the soul, but it's not always so great for the waist. This healthy cheddar soup recipe keeps the texture you crave but nixes calories by using cauliflower to create a creamy soup base.  Get The Recipe

Tofu Scramble
Versatile, quick, and perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, a basic tofu scramble is a great go-to meal. This vegan tofu scramble brings the Southwest to your table, fast.  Get The Recipe

Mac and Cheese
Yes, you can have delicious, healthy mac and cheese. This version owes its low calorie count — and appropriate orange hue — to pureed butternut squash. Get The Recipe

Vegan Split Pea Soup
One-pot meals like this vegan split pea soup definitely don't lack dimension. With plenty of spices and sweet potatoes, a large bowl will fill you up for hours. Get The Recipe

Spicy Cauliflower Lasagna

Red pepper flakes, cinnamon, and roasted cauliflower give this healthy version of lasagna amazing depth of flavor.  Get The Recipe

Toasted Quinoa and Cabbage
If you need a break from a weekend of heavy meals, then make this digestion-aiding lemony toasted quinoa and wilted cabbage dish. Get The Recipe




Blueberry, Quinoa, and Kale Salad
This colorful salad has a bit of everything: blueberries, carrots, tomatoes, almonds, nori, kale, and quinoa, all blended with an Asian-inspired soy ginger dressing. Talk about eating the rainbow! Get The Recipe





Panko-Crusted White Fish
This protein-packed, simply prepared panko-crusted white fish recipe is the perfect post-workout dinner. Get The Recipe

Cumin-Spiced Lentils
Settle in with a large, comforting bowl of cumin-spiced lentils; packed with protein and fiber, this gluten-free meal satisfies no matter how hungry you are. Get The Recipe
 
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