5 Easy & Delicious Low-Calorie Recipes by West Ashley Wellness and Rehab

1. Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon

Ingredients:

Instructions:

2. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

Craving pasta but want to keep it light? Zucchini Noodles with Pesto is the answer! Swap traditional pasta for zoodles (zucchini noodles) and pair them with a vibrant homemade pesto sauce. This dish is gluten-free, low-calorie, and bursting with fresh flavors.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium-sized zucchinis (spiralized)
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• ¼ cup pine nuts
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 garlic cloves
• ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic, and a pinch of salt.
• Pulse the mixture while gradually adding olive oil until you achieve a smooth consistency.
• In a large skillet, sauté the zucchini noodles for 2-3 minutes until tender.
• Toss the zoodles with the pesto sauce until well-coated.
• Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper before serving.

3. Asian Quinoa Salad

Savor the delightful flavors of the East with this Asian Quinoa Salad. Packed with colorful vegetables and protein-rich quinoa, this dish is a powerhouse of nutrients. It is perfect for a light lunch or a side dish for dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa (cooked and cooled)
• 1 red bell pepper (julienned)
• 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup edamame (cooked and shelled)
• ¼ cup chopped green onions
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, red bell pepper, purple cabbage, carrots, edamame, green onions, and cilantro.
• Toss the ingredients together until evenly mixed.
• Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for an added crunch.
• For the dressing, whisk together the following ingredients in a separate bowl:
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss until well-coated. Serve chilled.

4. Stuffed Bell Peppers with Turkey and Quinoa

A hearty and nutritious meal that is as visually appealing as it is delicious – Stuffed Bell Peppers with Turkey and Quinoa! This recipe combines lean ground turkey, quinoa, and an array of flavorful herbs and spices, making it a wholesome choice for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1-pound lean ground turkey
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup black beans (rinsed and drained)
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned.
• Stir in the cooked quinoa, diced tomatoes, black beans, frozen corn, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• Fill each bell pepper with the turkey-quinoa mixture.
• Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
• Garnish with fresh herbs and serve.

5. Greek Yogurt Berry Parfait

Indulge your sweet tooth without the guilt with this delightful Greek Yogurt Berry Parfait. Packed with the goodness of Greek yogurt and antioxidant-rich berries, this treat is perfect for breakfast or a healthy dessert.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• ¼ cup granola
• 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions:

• In a transparent glass or jar, layer the Greek yogurt, mixed berries, and granola.
• Drizzle honey over the top for added sweetness.
• Repeat the layers until the glass is filled to your liking.
• Garnish with a few fresh berries on top.
• Enjoy the burst of flavors and textures in every spoonful!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)