Light dinners can be a great way to enjoy a tasty meal without feeling too full. These meals are perfect for warm summer evenings or when you want something satisfying but not heavy.

Light dinner ideas offer a balance of nutrition and flavor while keeping portions and calories in check.

You’ll find many options for light dinners that are quick and easy to make. From fresh salads to lean proteins and veggie-packed dishes, there’s something for every taste.

These meals can help you feel energized and nourished without weighing you down.

1. Lemon Garlic Shrimp

Lemon garlic shrimp is a quick and tasty dinner option. You can make it in just 15 minutes.

Start by melting butter in a pan over medium heat.

Add minced garlic and shrimp to the pan. Cook until the shrimp turn pink, about 4-5 minutes.

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and stir.

Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs if you like. For extra flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Serve your lemon garlic shrimp over pasta or with a side salad for a light meal.

2. Caprese Salad

Caprese salad is a light and refreshing dinner option. You can make this classic Italian dish in minutes.

Start with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves. Slice the tomatoes and cheese, then layer them on a plate with basil.

Drizzle olive oil over the top and sprinkle with salt. For extra flavor, add a splash of balsamic vinegar.

Try variations like adding avocado or using cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls on skewers. You can also turn it into a pasta salad or flatbread for a heartier meal.

3. Quinoa Salad with Avocado

You can make a tasty quinoa salad with avocado for a light dinner. Cook quinoa and let it cool.

Chop cucumber, bell peppers, and tomatoes.

Mix the cooled quinoa with the veggies. Add diced avocado for creaminess.

Toss with a simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.

For extra flavor, try adding chickpeas, feta cheese, or fresh herbs like parsley. This salad is filling yet light, perfect for a summer evening meal.

4. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

Zucchini noodles with pesto offer a light and tasty dinner option. You can easily make zucchini noodles using a spiralizer or julienne peeler.

Toss your zucchini noodles with homemade or store-bought pesto for a quick, flavorful meal. Add some minced garlic and a drizzle of olive oil to enhance the taste.

For extra protein, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp. Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for a savory finish.

This low-carb dish is perfect for warm summer evenings when you want something refreshing. It’s also a great way to use up extra zucchini from your garden.

5. Grilled Chicken with Asparagus

Grilled chicken with asparagus is a tasty and light dinner option. You can make it quickly on a busy weeknight.

Start by marinating chicken breasts in a mix of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. While the chicken soaks up flavor, prep your asparagus by trimming the ends.

Fire up the grill and cook the chicken until it’s juicy and has nice grill marks. Add the asparagus to the grill for the last few minutes of cooking.

This meal is packed with protein and vitamins. It’s also low in carbs, making it great for various diets.

You can serve it as is or pair it with a small side of rice or quinoa for a more filling dinner.

6. Avocado Toast with Poached Egg

Avocado toast with a poached egg is a light and tasty dinner option. Start by toasting a slice of bread. While it’s toasting, mash half an avocado and season with salt and pepper.

Spread the mashed avocado on your toast. Next, poach an egg by creating a gentle whirlpool in simmering water. Crack the egg into the center and cook for 3-4 minutes.

Place the poached egg on top of your avocado toast. For extra flavor, you can add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of olive oil.

This simple meal is packed with protein and healthy fats.

7. Tomato Basil Soup

Tomato basil soup is a quick and tasty light dinner option. You can whip it up in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Start by sautéing carrots, onions, and celery in a large pot. Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, and herbs.

Let the soup simmer until the veggies are soft. Blend until smooth for a creamy texture.

Pair your soup with a grilled cheese sandwich or a crisp salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread for dipping.

This vegetarian-friendly soup is both nutritious and delicious. It’s a great way to enjoy a light, comforting dinner.

8. Berry Spinach Salad

Berry spinach salad is a quick and refreshing light dinner option. You can make it in just 5 minutes with simple ingredients.

Start with a base of baby spinach leaves. Add fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries.

For extra flavor and texture, include crumbled feta or goat cheese. Toss in some red onion slices and toasted pecans or almonds.

Drizzle the salad with a homemade raspberry vinaigrette or balsamic glaze. This adds a sweet and tangy finish to your meal.

You can customize this salad with your favorite berries and toppings. It’s a versatile dish that works well as a main course or side.

9. Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers make a tasty and light dinner option. You can fill them with a variety of healthy ingredients for a satisfying meal.

Try using lean ground turkey, white beans, spinach, and rice as a nutritious stuffing. Add some fresh basil for extra flavor.

For a vegetarian version, use a mixture of brown rice, chopped vegetables, and cheese. This creates a filling and delicious meat-free meal.

You can even make a Greek-inspired stuffed pepper with a spanakopita-like filling. Use spinach, feta cheese, and herbs for a Mediterranean twist.

Bake your stuffed peppers until they’re tender and the filling is hot. Serve them as a complete meal or with a simple side salad for a light dinner.

10. Spicy Tuna Lettuce Wraps

Spicy tuna lettuce wraps are a tasty, low-carb dinner option. You’ll need canned tuna, lettuce leaves, and some spicy ingredients.

Mix drained tuna with chopped green onions, cilantro, and jalapeño peppers. Add a dash of sriracha or sambal for extra heat.

Stir in a bit of Greek yogurt or mayo to bind the mixture. Spoon the tuna onto large lettuce leaves.

Top with diced tomatoes and sliced avocado if you like. Roll up the lettuce and enjoy your light, flavorful meal.

These wraps are quick to make and perfect for hot summer evenings. They’re also great for lunch or as a snack.

11. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

This light and refreshing salad is perfect for a quick dinner. You’ll love the mix of chickpeas, crisp veggies, and tangy feta cheese.

To make it, combine chickpeas, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, and kalamata olives in a bowl. Add crumbled feta cheese for a salty kick.

For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. Pour it over the salad and toss gently. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

This salad is easy to customize. Try adding avocado, mint, or basil for extra flavor. You can serve it right away or chill it for later.

12. Grilled Vegetables with Hummus

Grilled vegetables with hummus make a light and tasty dinner option. You can use a variety of veggies like zucchini, squash, peppers, and mushrooms.

Slice the vegetables and brush them with olive oil. Grill them until they’re tender and have nice char marks. This brings out their natural sweetness.

Serve the grilled veggies with a side of store-bought or homemade hummus. You can choose classic flavors like roasted red pepper or garlic hummus.

For extra flavor, sprinkle some feta cheese on top. Add a few pita wedges on the side for dipping.

This meal is filling, nutritious, and perfect for warm evenings.

13. Thai Chicken Skewers

Thai chicken skewers are a tasty and light dinner option. You can make them easily at home with a few simple ingredients.

Start by marinating bite-sized chicken pieces in a mix of coconut milk, soy sauce, and spices. Let the chicken soak up the flavors for at least 30 minutes.

Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. Grill them until they’re no longer pink inside.

Serve your skewers with a homemade peanut sauce for dipping. You can make this sauce by combining peanut butter, coconut milk, and brown sugar.

These skewers work great on the grill, in the oven, or even in an air fryer. They’re perfect for a light yet satisfying dinner.

14. Mushroom Risotto

Mushroom risotto is a tasty and filling dinner option. You can make it easily at home with just a few ingredients.

Start by sautéing sliced mushrooms in butter until they release their liquid.

Next, cook Arborio rice in a separate pan. Add warm stock a little at a time, stirring often. This helps create a creamy texture.

Once the rice is cooked, mix in the mushrooms.

You can use different types of mushrooms for varied flavors. Try adding some herbs like thyme or parsley for extra taste.

Mushroom risotto works well as a main dish or a side. It’s a great choice for a light but satisfying meal.

15. Cauliflower Fried Rice

Cauliflower fried rice is a tasty, low-carb twist on the classic dish. You can make it with fresh or frozen cauliflower rice.

Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger in sesame oil. Add your choice of vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers.

Mix in the cauliflower rice and cook until tender. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.

For extra protein, try adding eggs or shrimp. Top with scallions and cashews for crunch. Serve with lime wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze of flavor.

16. Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken

Spinach and feta stuffed chicken is a tasty and light dinner option. You can make it in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

To prepare, cut a pocket in chicken breasts and stuff them with a mix of spinach, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes. The filling adds flavor and keeps the chicken moist.

Season the outside of the chicken with herbs and spices. Bake it in a 400°F oven for 40-50 minutes until cooked through.

Serve your stuffed chicken with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

It’s an easy way to add more greens to your diet while enjoying a protein-packed dinner.

17. Minestrone Soup

Minestrone soup is a perfect light dinner option. You can make it easily with common vegetables and pantry staples.

Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil. Add garlic and cook briefly. Then toss in diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and herbs like basil and oregano.

Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend nicely.

You can add beans, potatoes, or pasta for extra heartiness.

Minestrone is versatile, so feel free to use whatever veggies you have on hand. It’s a great way to clean out your fridge while making a nutritious meal.

18. Sweet Potato Black Bean Tacos

Sweet potato black bean tacos are a tasty and nutritious dinner option. You can make them easily in about 25 minutes.

Start by chopping sweet potatoes and microwaving them for 3 minutes. Then coat them with taco seasoning and oil before microwaving again until soft.

While the sweet potatoes cook, prepare your black beans. Mix them with salt and garlic powder for extra flavor.

Fill taco shells with the sweet potato and black bean mixture. Add cheese if you like.

Bake the filled tacos for 3 minutes to warm everything through.

Top your tacos with your favorite garnishes like salsa, avocado, or cilantro. Enjoy your light yet satisfying meal!

19. Lentil Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

Lentil salad with balsamic vinaigrette is a tasty and light dinner option. You can make it easily with cooked lentils, fresh veggies, and a tangy dressing.

Start by cooking green or brown lentils until tender. While they cool, chop some bell peppers, cucumber, and red onion.

Mix the cooled lentils and veggies in a large bowl.

For the dressing, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard in a jar and shake well.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently. Add some fresh herbs like parsley for extra flavor.

This protein-packed meal is filling yet light, perfect for a summer evening.

20. Eggplant Rollatini

Eggplant rollatini is a tasty and light dinner option. You start by slicing eggplant thinly and roasting it until soft.

Next, you make a filling with ricotta cheese, spinach, and seasonings.

Spread the mixture onto each eggplant slice and roll it up.

Place the rolls in a baking dish with some marinara sauce. Top with a bit more sauce and cheese, then bake until hot and bubbly.

This dish gives you a satisfying Italian-inspired meal without too many carbs. It’s packed with veggies and protein to keep you full.

21. Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

Greek yogurt chicken salad is a tasty and light dinner option. You can make it easily with shredded chicken, Greek yogurt, and your favorite mix-ins.

Start by combining Greek yogurt with a touch of Dijon mustard for flavor. Add shredded chicken, chopped celery, and halved grapes to the mixture.

For crunch, toss in some chopped nuts like pecans or almonds. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well to coat evenly.

Chill the salad for an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to blend. Enjoy your Greek yogurt chicken salad on its own or in a sandwich.

22. Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad

Roasted beet and goat cheese salad is a tasty light dinner option. You can make this colorful dish easily at home.

Start by roasting beets in the oven until they’re soft. Let them cool, then peel and slice them.

Arrange the beets on a plate with crumbled goat cheese. Add some walnuts for crunch. Drizzle with a honey-Dijon vinaigrette for extra flavor.

This salad works great as a main course or side dish. You can add grilled chicken if you want more protein.

Serve it with crusty bread to make the meal more filling. It’s perfect for a summer dinner or lunch.

23. Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups

Turkey and cheese roll-ups are a quick and easy light dinner option. You can make them with tortillas or crescent roll dough.

For a simple version, spread cream cheese on a tortilla. Add turkey slices and your favorite cheese. Roll it up tightly.

If using crescent dough, unroll it and cut in half. Layer turkey and cheese on one side. Roll up starting from that side. Slice and bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.

You can add extras like spinach, avocado, or red onion for more flavor. A mustard spread or creamy dressing can also enhance the taste.

These roll-ups are versatile and can be served hot or cold. They make great leftovers for lunch too.

24. Chickpea and Avocado Mash

Chickpea and avocado mash is a quick, light dinner option packed with nutrition. You can whip it up in minutes using just a few simple ingredients.

Start by mashing chickpeas in a bowl. Add a ripe avocado and mash it together with the chickpeas.

Mix in some diced red onion, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice for extra flavor. Season with salt to taste.

This protein-rich spread works great as a sandwich filling. You can also use it as a dip for fresh veggies or spread it on toast.

For added crunch, try topping your mash with some diced carrots or cucumbers. It’s an easy way to boost your veggie intake at dinner time.

25. Vegetable Stir Fry

Vegetable stir fry is a quick and tasty light dinner option. You can use a mix of your favorite veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas.

Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ginger and garlic for extra flavor.

Toss in your chosen vegetables and cook for 3-5 minutes until crisp-tender.

Make a simple sauce with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of sesame oil. Pour it over the vegetables and stir until everything is coated and heated through.

Serve your stir fry over rice or noodles for a filling meal. You can add tofu or chicken for extra protein if you like.

26. Spinach and Mushroom Quesadillas

Spinach and mushroom quesadillas are a tasty, light dinner option. You can make them quickly and easily in just a few steps.

Start by sautéing sliced mushrooms in a pan with a bit of oil. Once they’re soft, add fresh spinach and cook until it wilts.

Next, place a tortilla on a baking sheet. Add some of the mushroom and spinach mixture, then sprinkle cheese on top. Cover with another tortilla.

Bake the quesadillas in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 10 minutes. They’re done when the cheese melts and the tortillas turn golden brown.

Cut into wedges and serve hot. You can add salsa, guacamole, or sour cream on the side if you like.

27. Butternut Squash Soup

Butternut squash soup is a comforting light dinner option. You can make it easily with just a few ingredients.

Start by roasting cubed butternut squash with onions, carrots, and celery. This brings out their natural sweetness.

Add the roasted vegetables to a pot with chicken or vegetable broth. Simmer until everything is very soft.

Blend the mixture until smooth. For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream.

Season with herbs like thyme and sage. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Serve your soup hot with a slice of crusty bread. It’s perfect for chilly fall evenings.

28. Ginger Soy Salmon

Ginger soy salmon is a quick and tasty dinner option. You can make this dish in about 30 minutes.

Start by mixing soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and honey to create a flavorful glaze.

Season the salmon with salt and sear it in a hot skillet for a few minutes. Then brush the glaze on the fish and finish cooking it in the oven.

Serve your ginger soy salmon with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or green beans. This meal is both healthy and satisfying. The sweet and savory flavors will make it a hit at your dinner table.

29. Baked Falafel

Baked falafel offers a healthier twist on the classic Middle Eastern dish. You can make it easily at home using canned chickpeas, fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon.

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Drain and dry the chickpeas, then blend them with onion and garlic in a food processor. Add herbs and spices to taste.

Shape the mixture into small balls or patties. Place them on a baking sheet and brush with olive oil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Serve your crispy baked falafel in pita bread with fresh veggies and tahini sauce. It’s a light, protein-packed dinner that’s both tasty and satisfying.

30. Pear and Arugula Salad

Pear and arugula salad is a tasty light dinner option. You can make it easily with fresh ingredients.

Start with a bed of peppery arugula leaves.

Add sliced juicy pears for sweetness. Sprinkle on some crumbled goat cheese or shaved Parmesan for a creamy touch.

Toss in crunchy walnuts or almonds. For extra flavor, include thinly sliced red onions.

Dress the salad with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey.

This salad gives you a mix of flavors and textures. It’s both light and filling. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with grilled chicken for a heartier meal.

31. Tandoori Cauliflower Tacos

Tandoori cauliflower tacos are a tasty light dinner option. You can make them easily at home with a few simple steps.

Start by mixing spices like tandoori masala, cumin, and chili powder with oil and lemon juice. Coat cauliflower florets in this mixture.

Roast the seasoned cauliflower in a 425°F oven for about 25-30 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even cooking.

While the cauliflower roasts, prepare your taco toppings. Try shredded red cabbage and a quick avocado sauce.

Warm your tortillas and assemble the tacos. Add the roasted cauliflower, toppings, and a sprinkle of cilantro. Enjoy your light and flavorful meal!

32. Asparagus and Prosciutto Roll-Ups

Asparagus and prosciutto roll-ups are a tasty and light dinner option. You’ll love how easy they are to make.

Start by wrapping thin slices of prosciutto around fresh asparagus spears. The salty prosciutto pairs well with the crisp vegetable.

For extra flavor, spread a thin layer of soft cheese like Alouette on the prosciutto before rolling. You can also try Parmesan or smoked Gouda for variety.

Arrange the roll-ups on a baking sheet and cook them in the oven at 400°F. They’ll be ready in just a few minutes when the prosciutto is crispy and the asparagus is tender.

Serve these roll-ups as a side dish or appetizer. They’re perfect for a light dinner when paired with a fresh salad.

33. Baked Cod with Lemon and Dill

Baked cod with lemon and dill is a light and tasty dinner option. This dish is quick to make and packed with flavor.

To prepare it, season cod fillets with salt and pepper. Mix lemon juice, zest, olive oil, and minced garlic in a bowl.

Place the cod in a baking dish and pour the lemon mixture over it. Sprinkle fresh dill on top for a pop of color and flavor.

Bake the cod in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 15 minutes. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork.

You can serve this dish with roasted vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a healthy, fuss-free dinner.

34. Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Stuffed zucchini boats are a tasty and light dinner option. To make them, cut zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the middle, leaving a thin rim.

Fill the hollowed-out zucchini with your favorite ingredients. Popular choices include ground meat, cheese, tomatoes, and herbs.

You can customize the filling to suit your taste. Try Italian-style with ground beef and marinara sauce, or go vegetarian with quinoa and veggies.

Bake the filled zucchini boats until the zucchini is tender and the filling is hot. This dish is low in carbs but high in flavor, making it perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.

35. Coconut Curry Soup

Coconut curry soup is a tasty and warming meal you can make in about 20 minutes. It combines creamy coconut milk with bold curry spices for a flavorful dish.

You can start by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger in a pot. Then add curry paste and spices to build flavor. Pour in broth and coconut milk to create the soup base.

For protein, you can add chicken or shrimp. Vegetables like bell peppers or potatoes work well too. Let everything simmer together until cooked through.

Serve your soup over rice noodles if you want a heartier meal. A squeeze of lime juice adds brightness at the end.

36. Shakshuka

Shakshuka is a tasty and light dinner option. You can make this Middle Eastern dish with eggs poached in a flavorful tomato sauce.

Start by sautéing onions and bell peppers. Add garlic, tomatoes, and spices like cumin and paprika. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens.

Create wells in the sauce and crack eggs into them. Cover and cook until the egg whites set but the yolks remain runny.

Sprinkle feta cheese and fresh herbs on top for extra flavor. Serve shakshuka with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. It’s a quick, easy, and satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week.

37. Spaghetti Squash with Marinara

Spaghetti squash with marinara is a light and tasty dinner option. You can easily make this dish by roasting spaghetti squash in the oven.

Once cooked, use a fork to scrape out the squash strands. These resemble spaghetti noodles but are much lower in calories.

Top the squash “noodles” with your favorite marinara sauce. You can use store-bought sauce or make your own with tomatoes, herbs, and spices.

For extra flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. This meal is both satisfying and nutritious, perfect for a light dinner.

38. Beet and Feta Tart

This light dinner option combines earthy beets with tangy feta cheese in a delicious tart. You can use store-bought puff pastry as the base to save time.

Roast diced beets with a drizzle of olive oil until tender. Spread whipped feta on the pastry, then top with the roasted beets.

Bake the tart until the pastry is golden and crisp. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor and color.

This tart works well served warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as an appetizer for gatherings.

39. Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Chicken lettuce wraps are a tasty and light dinner option. You can make them easily at home with ground chicken and fresh lettuce leaves.

Start by cooking the chicken in a skillet with oil. Add garlic, ginger, and your choice of sauce like hoisin or teriyaki.

Mix in some veggies like diced onions, carrots, or water chestnuts for crunch. Let everything simmer until the flavors combine.

Spoon the chicken mixture into clean lettuce leaves. Top with green onions or crushed peanuts if you like. These wraps are quick to make and fun to eat.

40. Vegetable Minestrone

Vegetable minestrone is a hearty Italian soup packed with veggies and flavor. You can make it easily at home with simple ingredients.

Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery in a large pot. Add garlic and tomato paste for extra flavor.

Pour in vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and your choice of beans. Toss in some pasta and seasonal vegetables like zucchini or asparagus.

Season with Italian herbs and let everything simmer until the vegetables are tender. For a finishing touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top before serving.

Boosting Metabolism

Light dinners help rev up your metabolism. Eating smaller portions at night gives your body less food to process.

This means you burn calories more efficiently.

Lighter meals often have fewer carbs and more protein. Protein takes more energy to digest than other nutrients.

This extra work helps speed up your metabolism.

Including fiber-rich veggies in light dinners also helps. Fiber keeps you full and takes time to break down.

Your body uses more energy to digest these foods.

Improving Sleep Quality

Eating light at night can lead to better sleep. Heavy meals before bed make it harder for your body to rest and recover.

Light dinners don’t overload your digestive system. This means less acid reflux and stomach discomfort when you lie down.

You’ll fall asleep faster and wake up less during the night.

Choosing foods high in melatonin can boost sleep quality too. Try adding cherries, nuts, or oatmeal to your light dinner.

These foods naturally contain sleep-promoting compounds.

Avoiding big meals close to bedtime also helps regulate your body’s sleep-wake cycle. This can lead to more consistent, restful sleep patterns over time.

Planning Your Light Dinner

A light dinner can be both satisfying and nutritious. The key is to focus on balanced macronutrients and fresh seasonal ingredients.

This approach ensures you get the nutrients you need without feeling overly full before bedtime.

Balanced Macronutrients

Plan your light dinner with a mix of proteins, carbs, and healthy fats.

Aim for a palm-sized portion of lean protein like grilled chicken, fish, or tofu.

Add a fist-sized serving of complex carbs such as quinoa, sweet potato, or whole grain bread.

Include a thumb-sized amount of healthy fats from sources like avocado, nuts, or olive oil.

Fill the rest of your plate with colorful veggies.

Here’s a simple formula to remember:

• 1/4 plate protein
• 1/4 plate complex carbs
• 1/2 plate vegetables
• 1 thumb-sized portion of healthy fats

This balance keeps you full and gives your body the fuel it needs.

Incorporating Seasonal Ingredients

Use seasonal produce to make your light dinners more exciting and budget-friendly.

In spring, try asparagus, peas, and strawberries. Summer brings tomatoes, zucchini, and berries.

Fall offers pumpkin, squash, and apples. Winter gives you citrus fruits, root vegetables, and hearty greens.

Seasonal eating has many benefits:

• Fresher taste
• Higher nutrient content
• Lower cost
• Support for local farmers

Try new recipes that highlight these seasonal ingredients.

A spring salad with grilled chicken and fresh peas or a fall roasted vegetable bowl with quinoa can be delicious light dinner options.

You’ll enjoy a variety of flavors throughout the year while keeping your meals light and nutritious.