**7 Light Dinners Under 300 Calories**

When it comes to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, finding delicious dinners that are both satisfying and low in calories can be a challenge. Thankfully, we've got you covered with these 7 light dinners, each under 300 calories. These meals are perfect for those evenings when you want to keep things light without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. Featuring a variety of fresh ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes, these dishes are designed to help you enjoy healthy eating while keeping your calorie intake in check.

### **1. Zucchini Noodles with Lemon Garlic Shrimp**

**Why It’s Great* This dish replaces traditional pasta with zucchini noodles, keeping it low in calories but high in flavor. The shrimp adds protein, while the lemon garlic sauce provides a tangy kick.

**Ingredients*
- 2 zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
- 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish

**Instructions*
1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque.
4. Toss zucchini noodles in the skillet with shrimp and garlic.
5. Drizzle with lemon juice, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with parsley.

**Calories* Approximately 280 per serving.

### **2. Spicy Black Bean Soup**

**Why It’s Great* This hearty soup is rich in fiber and protein from black beans, with a spicy kick to keep your taste buds satisfied. It's a great option for a filling yet low-calorie meal.

**Ingredients*
- 2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions*
1. Sauté onion and garlic in a pot until soft.
2. Add tomatoes, black beans, vegetable broth, chili powder, and cumin.
3. Simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Blend half of the soup for a creamy texture, if desired. Season with salt and pepper.

**Calories* Approximately 250 per serving.

### **3. Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad**

**Why It’s Great* This chicken salad uses Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative to mayonnaise, offering a creamy texture without extra calories. It’s packed with protein and crunch from fresh vegetables.

**Ingredients*
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions*
1. Mix Greek yogurt and Dijon mustard in a bowl.
2. Add chicken, celery, and red onion.
3. Stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper.

**Calories* Approximately 290 per serving.

### **4. Baked Tilapia with Lemon and Dill**

**Why It’s Great* Tilapia is a light, flaky fish that's easy to prepare and low in calories. This recipe features a simple lemon and dill seasoning that enhances its natural flavors.

**Ingredients*
- 4 tilapia fillets
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions*
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place tilapia fillets on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then sprinkle with dill, salt, and pepper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the fish is flaky.

**Calories* Approximately 230 per serving.

### **5. Cauliflower Fried Rice**

**Why It’s Great* This low-carb alternative to traditional fried rice uses cauliflower rice as a base. It's a light yet satisfying dish with plenty of vegetables and protein.

**Ingredients*
- 1 head cauliflower, grated into rice-sized pieces
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 green onions, sliced

**Instructions*
1. Heat olive oil in a pan.
2. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
3. Add cauliflower rice and cook for 5-7 minutes.
4. Push vegetables to one side, pour beaten eggs into the pan, and scramble.
5. Mix everything together, then add soy sauce and green onions.

**Calories* Approximately 260 per serving.

### **6. Spinach and Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Breast**

**Why It’s Great* This stuffed chicken breast is filled with nutritious spinach and mushrooms, making it a flavorful and protein-rich option that remains light on calories.

**Ingredients*
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions*
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Sauté spinach and mushrooms in olive oil until tender.
3. Cut a pocket in each chicken breast and stuff with spinach and mushroom mixture.
4. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until chicken is cooked through.

**Calories* Approximately 290 per serving.

### **7. Cucumber and Tomato Gazpacho**

**Why It’s Great* This chilled soup is perfect for a light, refreshing meal. It’s made with fresh cucumbers and tomatoes, offering a burst of flavor without extra calories.

**Ingredients*
- 2 cucumbers, peeled and chopped
- 4 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions*
1. Blend cucumbers, tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, garlic, and vegetable broth until smooth.
2. Season with red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Chill before serving.

**Calories* Approximately 150 per serving.

### **Tips for Keeping Dinners Under 300 Calories**

- **Focus on Lean Proteins* Use lean meats like chicken breast or fish, and incorporate plant-based proteins like beans and tofu.
- **Load Up on Vegetables* Vegetables add volume and nutrients without many calories. They also help you feel full.
- **Use Light Cooking Methods* Opt for grilling, baking, or steaming over frying to keep dishes lighter.
- **Watch Portions* Even healthy ingredients can add up if portions are too large. Pay attention to serving sizes.

With these 7 light dinners under 300 calories, you can enjoy satisfying, flavorful meals while staying on track with your health goals. These recipes are not only nutritious but also easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend dinners. Enjoy a variety of fresh and wholesome options that keep you feeling light and energized all summer long!

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