35 Light Dinner Ideas That Are Quick And Easy
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Need to cook dinner but don’t have much of an appetite? These light dinner ideas are packed with wholesome ingredients that will fill you up without weighing you down. Plus, they’re all super easy to make!
If you’ve just arrived home from a stressful workday, cooking a mammoth meal might not sound appealing.
But don’t worry – I’ve got you.
This list of light dinner ideas includes everything from tasty soups to sheet pan recipes that will keep you satisfied until breakfast.
If you’re a meal prep mogul, there are also several dishes that you can make ahead for a fuss-free dinner.
Oh, and did I mention that these recipes are loaded with healthy fats, proteins, and wholesome ingredients?
35 Light Dinner Ideas
Here you’ll find my favorite dinner recipes, perfect if you want to enjoy a satisfying meal with a touch of healthy goodness.
Get ready to start whipping up some magic in the kitchen!
Garlic Herb Chicken with Sweet Potato Sheet Pan
TOTAL TIME: 35 mins
I’m completely obsessed with this sheet pan chicken, as it’s loaded with flavor but remains light.
It combines juicy chicken with tender sweet potatoes and crunchy veggies for a satisfying midweek meal.
Plus, it’s ready in 45 minutes and is cooked in a single pan for effortless clean-up.
Yep, you can thank me later!
Tofu Coconut Curry
TOTAL TIME: 30 mins
I make this tofu coconut curry virtually every week as it’s the perfect simple dinner for busy weeknights.
It’s packed with plant-based protein and vibrant veggies, and the warm spices are so comforting around this time of year.
Oh, and did I mention the natural sweetness from the butternut squash, the velvety coconut milk, and the rich aromatic base?
Be prepared to grab a bowlful of seconds, my friend!
Hummus Bowl
TOTAL TIME: 25 mins
This quick and easy bowl is my go-to when I’m craving a Mediterranean feast topped with rich and creamy hummus.
The fresh citrus and olive oil dressing give the dish a tangy kick and a glorious hit of healthy fats.
However, it’s the sharp feta cheese, crunchy roasted chickpeas, and crisp greens that truly shine here.
I usually throw olives, fresh parsley, tomatoes, and cucumber in my bowl. But don’t be afraid to experiment with seasonal ingredients for an explosion of flavor!
Stuffed Zucchini Boats
TOTAL TIME: 28 mins
Forget zoodles.
These stuffed zucchini boats are the best way to use up those leftover veggies from the crisper!
The lemon makes things super zesty, while the parmesan and coarse breadcrumbs bulk things out and add impressive texture.
And the juicy tomatoes? Well, they’re the sparkling cherries on top of this easy weeknight dinner!
Taco Salad Recipe
TOTAL TIME: 25 mins
Say goodbye to boring salads with this crisp and creative Mexican-inspired feast!
You’ll adore the range of veggies and chopped avocados, but don’t underestimate the joy of those toasted tortilla strips!
Top everything with cilantro lime dressing and a spoonful of sour cream for an easy meal that you’ll love.
Roasted Cauliflower Burrito Bowls
TOTAL TIME: 50 mins
If you’re not sure what to have for dinner tonight, give these roasted cauliflower burrito bowls a whirl.
They switch out meat for a savory blend of shiitake mushrooms and ground walnuts that make Meatless Mondays a breeze!
Fill out your bowl with crispy lettuce, tomatoes, tortilla chips, and a splash of balsamic vinegar for a well-balanced meal.
Turmeric Chickpea Soup
TOTAL TIME: 25 mins
When you just can’t face the kitchen, this quick dinner will be your knight in shining armor!
This soup is made using hearty chickpeas, butternut squash, and crunchy veggies a comforting dish that’s oh-so-healthy.
Oh, and don’t forget the impressive dose of vitamins and minerals from the leafy greens!
But the best part? It’s ready to slurp in under 30 minutes.
Vegetable Stir Fry Noodles
TOTAL TIME: 15 mins
These vegetable stir-fry noodles are made with colorful vegetables and chewy noodles for a nutritious and wholesome bite!
It’s ready to rumble in just 15 minutes and I can’t get enough of the umami flavors from the soy sauce.
If you’re looking for extra protein, a portion of tofu, tempeh, or edamame certainly wouldn’t go amiss!
Enjoy it fresh or meal prep it for simple dinners throughout the week.
Perfect.
Citrus Shrimp Avocado Salad
TOTAL TIME: 30 mins
This balanced and zingy salad combines citrus-flavored shrimp, creamy avocado, and a bed of greens.
It’s so easy to make.
Just lightly pan-sear the shrimp, throw some crunchy greens into a bowl, chop an avocado, and you’re good to go!
Talk about letting basic ingredients take center stage.
Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Lime Drench
TOTAL TIME: 40 mins
This is one of my top easy recipes to cook when I’m looking for something light and low-carb.
These lettuce wraps contain ground chicken, fluffy whole grains, and sauteed veggies that’ll make you forget all about traditional tortillas.
Stick closely to the recipe or jazz things up with your favorite fillings!
The world’s your oyster.
Salmon Poke Bowl
TOTAL TIME: 25 mins
If you adore sushi-grade fish, sticky rice, and tasting the rainbow, then you’re in the right place.
This refreshing salmon poke bowl has so much crunch, and the burst of umami flavor from the soy sauce is divine.
And the crunch from the radishes, red cabbage, and carrots?
I’m salivating just thinking about it!
Cod Fish Taco
TOTAL TIME: 30 mins
Is there anything better than protein-rich tilapia stuffed inside corn tortillas? I didn’t think so!
These fish tacos are stuffed with a tangy cabbage slaw for texture and slathered with a vibrant chipotle sauce for a fresh kick.
Add a squeeze of lime juice to the mix, and you’ll be in for a next-level fiesta!
Basil Pesto Pasta
TOTAL TIME: 25 mins
A recipe that combines al dente pasta, a rich homemade pesto sauce, and a bunch of crispy green beans?
Talk about a dinner of dreams!
Not only is it ready in just 15 minutes, but you can sprinkle parmesan cheese over your pasta for a hint of nuttiness in every bite.
And if you want to stretch things even further, throw the leftovers into a substantial pasta salad!
Mexican Quinoa
TOTAL TIME: 30 mins
You won’t believe how simple this Mexican quinoa is to make.
Just throw all the ingredients into a cast-iron skillet or instant pot and you’ll have the best light dinner in 30 minutes flat!
I can’t get enough of the warming spices in this recipe, and everything is beautifully balanced by the olive oil and avocado.
It’s perfection in a bowl that stores well for Meal Prep Mondays!
Pesto Zoodle Salad
TOTAL TIME: 25 mins
Main meals don’t need to be carb-heavy to be satisfying.
And this pesto zoodle salad is here to prove my point!
It’s made with spiralized zucchini noodles and jazzed up with vibrant tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and tender strips of chicken.
But don’t miss the hint of texture from those cheeky pine nuts!
It’s a wonderful choice for a vitamin-rich and high-protein meal that’ll tide you over until breakfast.
Chickpea Buddha Bowl
TOTAL TIME: 20 mins
This chickpea buddha bowl is a belly-filling delight that makes healthy food fun!
The plant-based protein from the crispy chickpeas and the fiery chilis are obviously major wins on the flavor front.
But it’s the combination of crunchy veggies, creamy avocado, and the sinful turmeric tahini dressing that I’m a sucker for.
It’s one of my go-to healthy dinner recipes when I’m craving a plate filled of healthy goodies!
Hummus Pasta
TOTAL TIME: 20 mins
This mouthwatering hummus pasta is made with sun-dried tomatoes, zingy lemon, and fresh basil.
And don’t forget the star ingredient that gives this pasta a creamy and distinctive taste!
If the taste wasn’t enough to reel you in, it’s rich in fiber which makes it perfect for sustained weight loss (without sacrificing flavor!).
Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry
TOTAL TIME: 35 mins
When it comes to light dinner ideas, can you really beat a sweet and sticky stir fry?
This hearty recipe is made with chicken and veggies for a balanced nutrient profile.
But it’s honestly the sweet Japanese rice wine that sends this dish into another dimension!
So good.
Healthy Quinoa Salad
TOTAL TIME: 30 mins
This aesthetic quinoa salad is the healthy dinner recipe that you need to try.
It combines a base of fluffy quinoa, chickpeas, black beans, and avocado with a zesty lime dressing that packs a punch.
And hey, the fresh burst of sweetness from the mango and onion makes it an ideal antidote for those hot summer nights!
And hey, the fresh burst of sweetness from the mango and onion makes it an ideal antidote for those hot summer nights!
Vegetable Spring Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce
TOTAL TIME: 30 mins
I adore Vietnamese spring rolls, and these veggie-filled delights are a tasty way to hit your 5-a-day!
The perfect spring roll wrapping technique might take a few tries to get used to. But the crunchy veggie filling and indulgent peanut sauce are worth the effort!
Seriously, the tang from the rice wine vinegar and the sweetness from the hoisin sauce is sensational.
And if you need more protein, why not add shrimp or tofu to your rolls?
Anything goes when it comes to this tasty recipe!
Korean Bibimbap with Quinoa
TOTAL TIME: 45 mins
Look, I’m always down for a spot of Korean BBQ.
But if you want to lighten things up a little, this delicious meal is perfect!
Instead of white rice and tons of oil, this bibimbap incorporates quinoa and steamed veggies to minimize added calories.
Plus, you’ll be adding a bunch of chopped crudites, sesame seeds, and a fried egg to bulk things out.
Hunger, be gone!
Tuscan Farro Soup
TOTAL TIME: 20 mins
If you’re on the hunt for comforting soup recipes for fall or winter, this Tuscan farro soup is a dream.
The savory broth is packed with quick-cook farro and cannellini beans for protein and fiber.
Plus, the chunks of potato and vitamin-rich kale make everything taste super wholesome.
Serve it with a hunk of crusty bread and enjoy a cozy night by the fire!
Salmon Patty Recipe
TOTAL TIME: 30 mins
The first time I tried these tender and flaky salmon patties, I was genuinely blown away.
So, it’s no surprise that I think they’re one of the best light dinner recipes around!
The inside of the patties should be moist and creamy which contrasts wonderfully with the crisp exterior.
And the tang from the Greek yogurt? Showstopping.
Oh, and don’t forget that these little circles of heaven are packed with healthy fats and Omega-3s!
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Garlic Cilantro Lime Slaw
TOTAL TIME: 30 mins
When I’m searching for something simple to fill the void, I’ll pull out these spicy shrimp tacos.
They’re filled with perfectly-seared shrimp, creamy avocado, and a ridiculously good cilantro lime slaw for zestiness.
If you want to go the extra mile, toast those tortillas for a slightly charred flavor!
Panzanella
TOTAL TIME: 15 mins
Panzanella is essentially a Tuscan salad that combines juicy tomatoes, croutons, fresh herbs, black olives, and chickpeas.
Sure, it might sound simple.
But the red wine vinegar, olive oil, and dried oregano give this salad a rich flavor that you can’t beat.
And if you’re into meal prepping, this dish actually tastes better the longer it’s in the fridge!
Sheet Pan Chili Lime Salmon
TOTAL TIME: 20 mins
There’s nothing more satisfying than a rich salmon steak, roasted vegetables, and a hint of spice.
And I’ll never turn down the chance to create a one-pan meal that’s ready in a jiffy!
The salmon is definitely the star here.
But the cumin, minced garlic, and sweet honey in this recipe are worthy supporting acts that pull everything together.
Quick Lentil Soup
TOTAL TIME: 25 mins
This quick lentil soup is the perfect option for vegans on the hunt for high-protein eats.
It’s packed with rich Middle Eastern flavors (thanks to the spices!) and is ideal for those chilly nights.
I love eating this soup for the bright yellow color you get from the turmeric.
But if you’re a certified foodie, you’ll appreciate how the red lentils break apart when cooked to produce a gloriously creamy soup!
Greek Chickpea Salad
TOTAL TIME: 15 mins
When you’re in a time crunch, there’s nothing better than a simple salad with feta and chickpeas.
This Mediterranean delight is made with simple ingredients.
But don’t worry - it packs a flavorful punch thanks to the kalamata olives, crunchy red onion, and fresh dill!
Have it as-is for a refreshing dinner or mop things up with a few pitas!
Pizza with Arugula
TOTAL TIME: 1 hour 30 mins
I’ll admit it. There are times in life when nothing else but a pizza will do!
But instead of loading your dough with heavy meats, you’ll be working with a vibrant tomato sauce and arugula.
The sharp tang of this ingredient contrasts with the mellow creaminess of the mozzarella and the herby sauce.
The result? A perfectly crispy and balanced pizza that won’t put you in a carb coma!
Butternut Squash Buddha Bowl
TOTAL TIME: 40 mins
I’ve always been a fan of butternut squash recipes, but this wholesome buddha bowl takes the cake!
It combines smooth butternut squash with mushrooms, kale, lentils, and brown rice for the ultimate high-fiber dinner.
The green lentils are the protein powerhouse in this dish.
But it’s the creamy turmeric tahini dressing that makes me swoon!
Turkey Taco Salad
TOTAL TIME: 30 mins
If you can’t get enough of Mexican flavors, try this turkey taco salad!
The ground turkey gives the salad a serious protein boost, while the bed of lettuce soaks up every last drop of cilantro dressing.
And don’t worry about the meat getting dry either.
The zingy salsa that’s mixed into the turkey and mean mixture keeps everything moist!
Pomegranate Salad
TOTAL TIME: 40 mins
Next up, we have this fruity and fresh pomegranate salad that’s bursting with vitamins and antioxidants!
I love serving this up at my holiday table as the colors are super festive. Plus, it makes use of winter squash and juicy apples!
But when dinner is this pretty, it deserves to be seen all year round.
And when you first taste that Dijon and maple syrup dressing, you won’t be able to hold out for the holidays!
Trust me on that one.
Thai Chicken Salad
TOTAL TIME: 35 mins
You might be partial to a green curry, but this Thai chicken salad is ideal when you have a smaller appetite.
The perfect balance between the sweet and fiery chili lime dressing and juicy chicken puts simple green salads to shame!
Top your bowl with crunchy cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and roasted cashews for an exciting texture.
Oh, and make sure you prepare enough for leftovers.
You’re going to want them!
Caprese Sandwich
TOTAL TIME: 10 mins
Hold onto your hats vegetarians.
I’m about to change the game with this easy-peasy Caprese sandwich!
It’s made with fresh focaccia, arugula, sweet basil, mozzarella, and vine-ripened tomatoes, and it’s just so darn fresh.
I usually eat it alone, but I’ll throw in a few nori chips - or polenta fries if I’m feeling hungrier!
Vegan Ramen
TOTAL TIME: 30 mins
Is there ever a time when ramen isn’t a good idea?
This vegan ramen combines meaty mushrooms, crisp veggies, and a savory miso broth for a dish that rivals any takeout stop.
And you might not believe it, but this Asian-inspired dish goes from zero to hero in just 30 minutes.
So, get ready to slurp away on one of the best light dinner ideas out there!
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Light Dinner Ideas: Hummus Bowl
Ingredients
For the bowls
- 1 cup hummus
- 2 cups quinoa - cooked
- 3 cups baby greens - or baby spinach, or chopped lettuce
- ½ red onion - sliced
- 20-30 cherry tomatoes - sliced
- 1 cucumber - sliced
- ½ cup black olives - pitted
- ½ cup roasted chickpeas
- 4 tablespoons feta - crumbled (use vegan feta for a vegan alternative)
- Fresh parsley
- 2 pita bread
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- If making homemade hummus, prepare it according to this recipe.
- Prepare the dressing: in a jar or a small bowl, mix the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Place the cooked quinoa and greens into the bowl.
- Top with the hummus, roasted chickpeas, sliced cherry tomatoes, cucumber, onions, olives, and feta cheese.
- Top with some fresh parsley, drizzle with the dressing and serve with warm pita bread.
