You Won’t Believe These 17 Dinners Are Good for You (But They Are!)

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You Won’t Believe These 17 Dinners Are Good for You (But They Are!)

Dinners after long days are often where we let our guard down, reaching for comfort over health. This collection flips the script with 17 recipes that defy the odds — yes, they’re good for you, but they’re also loaded with flavor. These aren’t your typical light fare; they’re hearty meals that just happen to support your well-being. So, prepare to enjoy these dinners, each one as good for you as it is delicious.

Pollo asado on a white plate with lime wedges.
Pollo Asado. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Tuscan garlic shrimp and spinach with tomatoes in a pan.
Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach is a top pick for anyone looking for a nutritious meal that’s also packed with flavor. This dish combines tender shrimp with leafy spinach and juicy tomatoes, all seasoned with a splash of garlic for that extra kick. It’s super quick to prepare, ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With only 237 calories per serving, it’s a smart choice for those managing their calorie intake. This dish shows that quick, healthy food can also be incredibly good and full of flavor, perfect for anyone who struggles to find time to cook nutritious meals.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

White Bean Soup

A bowl of white bean soup with carrots and croutons.
White Bean Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

White Bean Soup is perfect for a health-conscious, hearty meal that’s also easy to whip up. It features a robust mix of white beans, onions, carrots, and celery bathed in a flavorful vegetable broth. Spinach, lemon, and a touch of Parmesan are added to enhance the flavor profile. It takes only 40 minutes to make from start to finish. This soup is not only low in fat but also high in fiber, which is great for digestion and keeping you full longer. It’s a practical option for those who want to eat well but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The simplicity and quick prep time of this recipe make it a real lifesaver during the hectic weekdays.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup

Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Two bowls of sweet potato and red pepper soup with sour cream and parsley.
Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup is a comforting option for a healthy meal. It features the smooth flavors of sweet potatoes and the richness of red peppers. This soup is light on calories at only 133 per serving and takes about an hour to prepare. The addition of sour cream and parsley elevates the taste without adding too much weight, making it a great dinner solution on busy weeknights. It’s perfect for those looking for a nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor and fits effortlessly into a health-conscious lifestyle.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Chicken Tortellini Soup

A bowl of chicken tortellini soup with vegetables and herbs.
Chicken Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Tortellini Soup is a filling and healthy choice that combines tender chicken and cheese tortellini with carrots and celery in a flavorful broth. With 330 calories per serving and a quick 40-minute cooking time, this soup is a practical option for a nutritious dinner. It’s a great choice for those evenings when you need a comforting meal that doesn’t take much effort. The balanced mix of protein and vegetables ensures you’re getting a well-rounded meal that’s both easy to make and good for you.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

A glass bowl of jalapeño popper chicken salad ingredients.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad is a great option for a dinner that brings the heat. This salad mixes spicy jalapeños with creamy chicken and crisp bacon, all tossed in a homemade dressing. It’s a quick, hearty meal that transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful dinner. This recipe is perfect for those who want to add some excitement to their meal routine without sacrificing health or time. It’s perfect for a less-effort dinner that still packs a punch and keeps things light and filling.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

Keto Zuppa Toscana

Two bowls of soup with bacon and kale.
Keto Zuppa Toscana. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Keto Zuppa Toscana is a hearty, comforting soup that aligns with ketogenic dietary needs by using radishes instead of high-carb potatoes. This soup features a rich combination of bacon, Italian sausage, kale, heavy cream, and spices, ensuring each spoonful is loaded with flavor. It’s particularly good for cold days or when you need a filling meal that keeps carbs in check. With only 2.8 grams of net carbs per serving, this soup is a smart choice for anyone following a keto diet who doesn’t want to compromise on taste or comfort.
Get the Recipe: Keto Zuppa Toscana

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

A fresh Caesar salad with chicken, croutons, tomatoes, and dressing, served in a large white bowl with a fork.
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a hit for anyone looking for a nutritious meal that’s also easy to love. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish combines pre-cooked chicken, crunchy croutons, fresh tomatoes, and creamy Caesar dressing with pasta. It’s the kind of meal that keeps you on track with your health goals while still being a crowd-pleaser at the dinner table. Perfect for those busy days when you need something quick and healthy, it’s also great for bringing along to gatherings without having to worry about heavy, greasy foods.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Pollo Asado

Grilled chicken pieces seasoned with herbs and spices, garnished with chopped cilantro.
Pollo Asado. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Pollo Asado serves chicken in a tangy mix of orange and lime juices, cilantro, garlic, cumin, and onion, making it a standout dish for any dinner. With just 308 calories per serving, it’s a health-conscious option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. It’s perfect for a quick dinner after a long day. This dish allows you to enjoy a delicious meal without having to choose between health and taste, making it perfect for those who are health-conscious but still want a hearty dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pollo Asado

Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Roasted butternut squash with cauliflower and bacon and dollops of sour cream with a spoon.
Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon is the perfect example of how veggies can shine in a meal. The roasting process caramelizes the squash and cauliflower, enhancing their natural sweetness, while the bacon adds a depth of flavor. This dish is simple to prepare, requiring about 30 minutes of prep and additional roasting time. It’s packed with fiber and essential vitamins, making it both comforting and nutritious. For those looking to cut down on fat, switching to turkey bacon is a great alternative. This recipe is especially good for those who want to enjoy a hearty meal without compromising on their health goals.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Coconut curry Thai turkey meatballs on top of cauliflower rice in a bowl.
Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs combines the exotic flavors of coconut and curry with the healthy, lean protein of turkey, creating a dish that’s both flavorful and beneficial for your diet. Each serving packs about 287 calories and is loaded with aromatic spices that make each bite a treat. This dish is especially enticing for those on a low-carb diet who still want to enjoy deep, good flavors. Serve these meatballs over cauliflower rice to keep the meal low in carbs but high in taste. This recipe is a testament to how diet food doesn’t have to be bland and can actually be something you look forward to eating.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Lemon Garlic Scallops

Scallops with parsley and garlic in a skillet.
Lemon Garlic Scallops. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Lemon Garlic Scallops are a great choice for a quick yet sophisticated meal. These scallops are seared to perfection and then coated in a fresh lemon garlic sauce that enhances their delicate flavor. The dish is ready in under 30 minutes and contains fewer than 170 calories per serving. It’s perfect for a health-conscious diet, serving a gourmet experience without the heavy calorie count. Pairing these scallops with zucchini noodles or a crisp salad makes for a meal that’s both nutritious and light. This dish is great for those who love seafood but are mindful of their health and time.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Garlic Scallops

Sausage Curry

Sausage curry in a skillet garnished with herbs.
Sausage Curry. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sausage Curry is a robust dinner choice that combines spicy curry flavors with the hearty texture of sausages and the smoothness of coconut milk. With around 390 calories per serving, this dish promises a filling meal that sticks to your health goals. It’s easy to prepare in just 45 minutes, making it a perfect fit for busy evenings. Serve this curry with rice or naan to soak up the rich sauce. It’s a great way to enjoy a flavorful dinner that keeps your health in check without spending all night in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Curry

Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Sausage and veggies sheet pan dinner with a spoon.
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner is an easy, one-pan meal that combines flavorful sausages with broccoli, peppers, and zucchini. It cooks in just 30 minutes and is a great way to get a nutritious dinner on the table quickly. Each serving has about 350 calories and plenty of nutrients, making it a balanced meal option. This dish is perfect for anyone looking to minimize kitchen time while still enjoying a wholesome meal. It’s a stress-free dinner solution that doesn’t skimp on flavor or health benefits.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Shawarma Kebabs

A plate of shawarma kebabs with greens and lemon slices.
Shawarma Kebabs. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Shawarma Kebabs bring the aromatic and exciting flavors of the Middle East to your dinner table without the extra calories. Spiced with cumin, turmeric, and paprika, these chicken kebabs are both nutritious and packed with flavor. They require minimal prep and cooking time, making them a practical choice for a fast weeknight dinner. This dish not only caters to your health but also keeps everyone at the table happy with its great taste. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy a flavorful meal without compromising their health.
Get the Recipe: Shawarma Kebabs

Wild Rice Mushroom Soup

A bowl of wild rice mushroom soup with a spoon.
Wild Rice Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Wild Rice Mushroom Soup is your go-to for a comforting meal that fits perfectly into a health-conscious diet. This soup combines the rich, earthy flavors of mushrooms with wild rice and is seasoned with garlic, onion, and thyme for a hearty taste. It’s simple to prepare and contains about 245 calories per serving. On a cold evening, this soup serves the warmth and nutrition needed to support a healthy lifestyle. It’s also perfect for those seeking a delicious meal that doesn’t feel like a diet dish.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Mushroom Soup

Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

Slow cooker split pea soup in a slow cooker with a spoon.
Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup is a great choice for a filling dinner that requires minimal effort. Pack the slow cooker with dried split peas, ham, onions, carrots, celery, and garlic, and let it cook throughout the day. It’s a low-calorie meal that doesn’t hold back on flavor or satisfaction. At about 253 calories per serving, this soup is perfect for ending a busy day with a comforting meal that supports your health goals and keeps dinner prep simple.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

A skillet of creamy sun dried tomato chicken with a wooden spoon.
Sun Dried Tomato Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sun Dried Tomato Chicken is a great quick meal option for those keeping an eye on their health. This dish features chicken in a creamy sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan, boasting low carb count and a 207 calories per serving. It cooks in about 30 minutes, making it an perfect choice for a busy weeknight. This recipe is great for anyone who wants a speedy yet flavorful meal that fits into a health-conscious eating plan without feeling restricted.
Get the Recipe: Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

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