18 Healthy Dinner Recipes

Eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring or difficult. With these 20 healthy dinner recipes, you can enjoy delicious meals that are good for you. Each recipe is full of fresh ingredients and great flavors, making it easy to eat well every night.

From grilled chicken to tasty vegetarian options, there is something for everyone. These meals are not only nutritious but also quick to prepare. Whether you are cooking for your family or just for yourself, these recipes will make dinner time fun and enjoyable.

Many of these recipes can be made in 30 minutes or less, perfect for busy weeknights. You can also prepare some of them ahead of time for meal prep. With easy-to-follow directions, you’ll be on your way to a healthy dinner in no time.

Try these healthy dinner recipes to make your meals more exciting. Eating well can be simple and delicious, and these recipes will help you feel your best. Enjoy the variety and flavors that each dish brings to your table!

1. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken

Enjoy this juicy grilled chicken marinated in a zesty lemon herb blend. Perfect for summer BBQs or a quick weeknight meal, it’s both flavorful and healthy. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or steamed veggies for a complete dinner. Your family will love this light and refreshing dish!

Serving and Time

  • Servings: 4
  • Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Juice of 2 lemons
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper.
  2. Place the chicken breasts in the bowl and coat them with the marinade. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for more flavor).
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and has nice grill marks.
  5. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

2. Quinoa and Black Bean Bowl

This vibrant quinoa and black bean bowl is packed with protein and fiber. Toss in fresh veggies and a sprinkle of lime for a refreshing meal that’s easy to prepare. It’s perfect for meal prep and stays great in the fridge for a few days. Enjoy this nutritious bowl as a main dish or side.

Serving and Time

  • Servings: 4
  • Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. In a pot, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and all the liquid is absorbed.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, cherry tomatoes, and diced bell pepper.
  4. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  5. Gently toss everything together until well mixed. Serve it warm or cold.

3. Baked Salmon with Asparagus

This baked salmon dish is a delicious way to enjoy omega-3 fatty acids. Paired with tender asparagus, it’s a simple yet elegant dinner. The lemon and herbs enhance the flavor, making it a hit for both family dinners and special occasions. Serve it with brown rice for a satisfying meal.

Serving and Time

  • Servings: 4
  • Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh dill for garnish

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. On a baking sheet, arrange the salmon fillets and the trimmed asparagus.
  3. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salmon and asparagus. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  4. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The salmon should be opaque and flaky, and the asparagus should be tender.
  5. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh dill before serving.

4. Vegetable Stir-Fry

This colorful vegetable stir-fry is quick, healthy, and packed with flavor. Toss in your favorite veggies and a light soy sauce for a quick dinner that the whole family will love.

Serving and Time

  • Servings: 4
  • Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Directions

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Add minced garlic to the skillet and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.
  4. Pour the soy sauce over the vegetables and stir to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  5. Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice or noodles. Enjoy!

5. Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers

These turkey and spinach stuffed peppers are a nutritious and satisfying meal. Packed with lean turkey, fresh spinach, and quinoa, they are both filling and flavorful. This dish is perfect for meal prep and freezes well, making it a great option for busy weeks. Enjoy these colorful peppers as a healthy dinner option!

Serving and Time

  • Servings: 4
  • Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

  • 4 bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 can diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
  3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey until browned. Add chopped spinach, diced tomatoes, cooked quinoa, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for another 5 minutes.
  4. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture and place them in a baking dish.
  5. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each pepper. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the peppers are tender.

6. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

This dish features spiralized zucchini noodles tossed in fresh basil pesto for a light and healthy meal. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy your favorite pasta flavors without the carbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer meal, it’s both delicious and nutritious. Serve it with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.

Serving and Time

  • Servings: 4
  • Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 4 medium zucchinis
  • 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Directions

  1. Using a spiralizer, turn the zucchinis into noodles (zoodles) and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the zoodles and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
  3. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 2 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in the pesto, mixing well to coat the zoodles.
  5. Season with salt and pepper, and serve with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

7. Chickpea Curry

This chickpea curry is a hearty and comforting dish packed with flavor. Made with coconut milk and spices, it’s both creamy and nutritious. Serve it over rice or with naan for a complete meal. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or when you want a quick, satisfying dinner.

Serving and Time

  • Servings: 4
  • Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Directions

  1. In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic, curry powder, and cumin, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the chickpeas and coconut milk, and bring to a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy over rice or with naan.

8. Cauliflower Fried Rice

This cauliflower fried rice is a healthy twist on a classic dish. It’s low in carbs and packed with veggies, making it a great option for anyone looking for a lighter meal. The cauliflower rice absorbs all the flavors, making it a satisfying and delicious dinner. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!

Serving and Time

  • Servings: 4
  • Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 head of cauliflower, grated or riced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. In a large skillet or wok, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced carrots and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
  2. Stir in the riced cauliflower and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
  3. Push the cauliflower mixture to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs into the other side. Scramble the eggs until cooked, then mix everything together.
  4. Add peas, soy sauce, and chopped green onions. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

9. Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Broccoli

This lemon garlic shrimp and broccoli dish is a quick and flavorful meal. The shrimp are cooked to perfection with garlic and lemon, while the broccoli adds a nutritious crunch. It’s a light yet satisfying dish, perfect for busy nights. Serve it over rice or pasta for a complete meal.

Serving and Time

  • Servings: 4
  • Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Add the broccoli florets and chicken broth. Cover and steam for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
  3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
  4. Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture and season with salt and pepper.
  5. Serve warm over rice or pasta if desired.

10. Lentil Soup

This hearty lentil soup is packed with vegetables and protein, making it a comforting and nutritious dinner option. It’s perfect for chilly nights and can be made in large batches for meal prep. With a blend of spices and fresh herbs, this soup is flavorful and satisfying. Enjoy it with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Serving and Time

  • Servings: 6
  • Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 cup lentils, rinsed
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  3. Stir in the lentils, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-35 minutes until the lentils are tender.
  4. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot.

11. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

These sweet potato and black bean tacos are a delicious and healthy meatless option. Roasted sweet potatoes and black beans are packed into warm tortillas for a satisfying meal. Top them with avocado and fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Serving and Time

  • Servings: 4
  • Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Avocado and cilantro for topping

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
  2. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
  3. In a skillet, heat the black beans until warm.
  4. Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
  5. Assemble the tacos by filling each tortilla with roasted sweet potatoes and black beans. Top with avocado and cilantro before serving.

12. Thai Peanut Chicken Salad

This Thai peanut chicken salad is fresh, crunchy, and full of flavor. The combination of grilled chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy peanut dressing makes it a satisfying meal. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner and can be made in advance for meal prep. Enjoy this light and refreshing salad!

Serving and Time

  • Servings: 4
  • Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
  • 4 cups mixed salad greens
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
  • 1/4 cup peanuts, chopped
  • 1/4 cup peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Water to thin dressing

Directions

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and enough water to reach desired consistency.
  2. In a large salad bowl, combine salad greens, sliced grilled chicken, shredded carrots, bell pepper, and cucumber.
  3. Drizzle the peanut dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  4. Top with chopped peanuts before serving.

13. Spaghetti Squash with Marinara

This spaghetti squash with marinara sauce is a healthy, low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. The squash is roasted until tender and topped with a homemade marinara sauce for a delicious meal. It’s a simple, comforting dish perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese!

Serving and Time

  • Servings: 4
  • Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 medium spaghetti squash
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
  2. Drizzle olive oil on the inside of each half and season with salt and pepper. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes until tender.
  3. While the squash is baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
  4. Once the squash is done, use a fork to scrape the insides into strands.
  5. Serve the spaghetti squash topped with marinara sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

14. Greek Chicken Bowls

These Greek chicken bowls are packed with flavor and nutrition. Marinated chicken is grilled and served over a bed of rice with fresh veggies, feta cheese, and a tangy dressing. They are perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner that the whole family will enjoy. Customize the toppings to your liking!

Serving and Time

  • Servings: 4
  • Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Juice of 2 lemons
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese
  • Tzatziki sauce for serving (optional)

Directions

  1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes.
  2. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
  3. Remove from the grill and let the chicken rest before slicing.
  4. In bowls, layer cooked rice, sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese.
  5. Drizzle with tzatziki sauce if desired before serving.

15. Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon

This honey mustard glazed salmon is both sweet and savory, making it a delightful dinner option. The glaze caramelizes in the oven, giving the salmon a beautiful finish. Serve with roasted vegetables or a side salad for a nutritious meal. This dish is easy to prepare and sure to impress!

Serving and Time

  • Servings: 4
  • Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the honey mustard glaze over the top of each fillet.
  4. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

16. Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

These balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection and drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. They make a fantastic side dish or can be served as a main dish with quinoa. This recipe is a great way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable! Perfect for any dinner table.

Serving and Time

  • Servings: 4
  • Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet.
  3. Roast in the oven for 20 minutes, or until they are tender and browned.
  4. While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, combine balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes until thickened.
  5. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the roasted Brussels sprouts before serving.

17. Grilled Veggie and Hummus Wraps

These grilled veggie and hummus wraps are a light and refreshing meal packed with flavor and nutrition. Loaded with grilled vegetables and creamy hummus, they’re perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch. You can customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand, making this dish versatile and delicious.

Serving and Time

  • Servings: 4
  • Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

  • 4 large whole wheat tortillas
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup hummus
  • 1 cup baby spinach
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium heat. Toss the sliced zucchini and peppers in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  2. Grill the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes per side until tender and slightly charred.
  3. Spread a generous amount of hummus on each tortilla. Layer with grilled vegetables and baby spinach.
  4. Roll up the tortillas tightly and slice in half before serving.

18. Coconut Curry Lentils

This coconut curry lentils recipe is rich, creamy, and full of flavor. The combination of lentils and coconut milk creates a hearty dish that’s perfect for dinner. Serve it with rice or naan for a complete meal. It’s an easy recipe that’s also great for meal prep!

Serving and Time

  • Servings: 4
  • Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 cup lentils, rinsed
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Directions

  1. In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in minced garlic and curry powder, cooking for another minute.
  3. Add lentils, vegetable broth, and coconut milk to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the lentils are tender.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
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