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100 Healthy Dinners That Are Ready in 40 Minutes or Less

Updated on August 03, 2026

Healthy food fast? Yes, it's possible! These quick and easy meals are on the table in no time.

Photo: Matt Armendariz
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Quick and Healthy Ideas for Dinner

We’ve got 100 quick, healthy weeknight dinner recipes that we promise can be made in 40 minutes or less — giving you lots of options whether you’re sticking to low-carb or Whole30-friendly meals, following a Mediterranean diet or committing to eating more protein or plant-based foods. Love chicken, salmon, shrimp, pork or eating vegetarian? With these ideas from your favorite Food Network stars and the chefs in our test kitchen, you’ll be able to find something for every dietary preference that you can still whip together fast, even on a weeknight.

We’ve got recipes that are easy to prep, and quick to make and to clean up from, including those that go one-pan, sheet-pan or air-fryer, so they can realistically be made, served and cleaned up in a flash even on your most hectic evenings.

And no worries about dish after dish of bland, steamed vegetables here; we’re operating with a modern sensibility of what’s possible. We’ve dipped into everyone’s favorite cuisines, including Mexican- and Mediterranean-inspired to Indian dals and Chinese-style steamed fish. And there are 115 recipes! So, you can cook for weeks without repeats, if variety is your jam. (Did we mention there are 115 of them?)

We’ve included nutritional context for each recipe along with practical ideas for substitutions where it makes sense, so you’ll even be able to adapt meals to your dietary plan. Every recipe in this collection delivers a balanced, flavorful dinner in 40 minutes or less — no shortcuts on nutrition or taste — so, arm yourself with these quick and easy any-night dinner recipes, including this creamy chicken skillet.

It's the ultimate weeknight dinner — comforting, satisfying and ready in just about 40 minutes. Packed with hearty vegetables and lean chicken breast, it’s a healthy option that delivers 23 grams of protein and still never skimps on rich, creamy flavor. A crispy panko topping adds just the right crunchy, cozy touch. Plus, everything comes together in one skillet, giving you another reason to high-five yourself when it’s time for cleanup.

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Healthy Rice Cooker Garlic Shrimp with Chorizo

Inspired by Spanish garlic shrimp, this ultra-simple dish is cooked entirely in a rice cooker. It’s boosted with the smoky flavors of chorizo and paprika, then rounded out with crunchy red peppers and a bright squeeze of lemon at the end. Layering the cooked chorizo on the bottom of the rice cooker releases a bright orange oil that flavors the rice. And the steam helps soften the sausage in a way that other cooking methods do not. Jumbo shrimp work better than large shrimp for this recipe because they won't overcook.

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Herbed Lentils with Spinach and Tomatoes

Fiber-rich lentils get tossed in a fresh and vibrant dressing in Ellie Krieger’s weeknight-ready dish. Serve with a simple protein to fill out your meal.

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Air Fryer Pomegranate-Glazed Salmon

Pomegranate lends its sweet-tart essence and ruby hue to this impressive weeknight dinner or special-occasion main dish in two ways: First, pomegranate molasses is the base of a fruity glaze for the salmon fillets, resulting in perfectly caramelized exteriors. While the fish cooks, we toss together a bold and colorful relish of pomegranate arils, cilantro and spicy serrano chiles to cut through the richness of the salmon. Serve with salad to round out the meal.

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Beans Parmesan

This vegetarian spin on the Italian American favorite chicken Parmesan starts with creamy cannellini beans simmered in a homemade tomato sauce. The hearty beans are topped with a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan breadcrumbs, giving you the flavor and gooey-crispy texture that chicken Parm is famous for. The recipe comes together entirely in one skillet, making for easy prep and cleanup.

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Sweet and Tangy Chicken Burgers

These flavorful burgers get rave reviews and are remarkably easy to put together. Sauteed onion and yogurt keep the lean chicken patties moist while a blend of pantry spices makes them deliciously fragrant. Widely used in Middle Eastern cooking, pomegranate molasses adds a subtle touch of sweetness to these mouthwatering patties.

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Calabacitas a la Mexicana

Calabacitas literally translates to "little squash," and a la Mexicana means it incorporates the colors of the Mexican flag — white, red and green — from onions, tomatoes and chiles. This vegetarian dish can be served as a side dish, main dish or with tortillas to make tacos. If you can’t find summer squash, zucchini works just as well.

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Egg Roll Fried Brown Rice

This easy fried rice packs in all the great flavors of your favorite fried egg roll, but with a healthier twist! Nutty brown rice, tender shrimp, crisp coleslaw mix and shiitake mushrooms are the elements of an excellent nutrient-dense base. We stir-fry them with soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic and ginger for a classic seasoning that will remind you of your comfort food favorite, plus we add a hint of spicy Chinese mustard, the classic egg roll condiment. Charring some of the coleslaw mix is an easy trick that gives the dish a deep, complex flavor, while using frozen brown rice means you can prepare this whole-grain dish on the fly — perfect for a bold, satisfying, any-night meal.

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Healthy Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Zoodles

You can have fork-tender turkey meatballs that are golden yet moist, thanks to the air fryer! Pair with fun zoodles, your favorite jarred tomato sauce and an extra pinch of Parmesan for a delicious and wholesome meal.

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Chicken with a Lemon Herb Sauce

This herby sauce takes skinless chicken breasts from boring to bright in only 25 minutes. It's an easy way to upgrade a go-to protein, any night of the week.

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Tuna and Spiced Quinoa Dinner Salad

This Mediterranean-inspired power salad hits all the right notes, from briny capers and artichokes to crunchy walnuts and fresh spinach and a combination of chewy quinoa and cauliflower rice cooked with warm spices. Canned tuna is the convenient protein hero giving the salad 24 grams per serving and adding richness to every bite. It’s a healthy, high-protein one-bowl meal that still manages to feel indulgent. Plus it’s ideal for prepping ahead for meals down the road. If you’re making it in advance, dress all the ingredients together except the spinach; pack it for lunches or weeknight dinners, tossing the spinach in right before serving to keep it fresh and bright. You can also opt for chopped kale in place of spinach for a slightly sturdier, earthier version.

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Healthy Chipotle Beer-and-Butter Shrimp Foil Pack

Chipotle and cumin are tempered by beer, butter and lime in this simple and healthy shrimp dish that comes together in a snap. Sealing the ingredients in aluminum foil before grilling keeps the juices in and makes a sauce that is perfect for pouring over rice.

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Orecchiette with Canned Salmon

Elevate canned salmon, creamy cannellini beans and dried pasta into an elegant meal that’s ready in only 20 minutes. A bit of crème fraîche brings it all together, and lemon – along with a trio of fresh herbs – adds lovely brightness to this simple, creamy dish.

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Sheet Pan Kofta and Tomatoes

This easy sheet pan kofta and tomatoes is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. You can use ground lamb, beef or a combination to make the kofta; the delicious flavor comes from spices such as turmeric and sumac and the addition of fresh cilantro. Kofta is usually made on the grill or seared in a pan. This oven-baked version uses less oil and requires little tending. Recipe developer Shadi Hasanzadenemati usually serves kofta with white rice (leftovers work too), but lavash, pita or a green salad would also be welcome accompaniments.

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Ghanaian Salad

You can find two versions of Ghanaian salad, and both are very simple to make at home. The usual ingredient in the vegetarian style are lettuce, tomatoes, carrots, cucumber, onions and baked beans. The non-vegetarian salad includes cooked canned corned beef or cook canned sardines. This recipe is for a traditional vegetarian version--though recipe developer Gabi Odebode has added avocado. Whatever style you prefer, a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing is classic. In Gabi's household it was always Heinz salad cream.

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Healthy 40-Minute Pork, Pepper and Rice Noodle Soup

This healthy weeknight meal brings together irresistible flavors in just 40 minutes. Think savory pork, crunchy vegetables, filling noodles and a tangy broth. It’s family-friendly and completely customizable: feel free to swap out the pork for chicken, beef or even tofu. Don’t have a red bell pepper? Reach for an orange or yellow one instead. The rice noodles will expand as the soup sits or when leftovers are refrigerated, so add more stock or water to thin it out to the consistency you desire before reheating.

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Pan-Seared Salmon with Kale and Apple Salad

This dish may look fancy, but it's easy enough to be a weeknight main course. The salmon cooks in a skillet in less than 10 minutes while the flavors in the crunchy kale salad meld. Add a whole-wheat roll and dinner is ready.

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Spinach Pesto Pasta with Broccoli Rabe and Beans

This vibrant dish of spinach pesto over whole-wheat penne makes pasta night as healthy as it is satisfying. Our creamy pesto is made with fresh spinach, garlic, almonds and lemon and coats the pasta in a rich and flavorful sauce. Broccoli rabe adds a nice bite, perfectly complementing the velvety pesto, while white beans give the dish a hearty texture and plant-based protein. Together it’s a balanced one-dish vegetarian meal that’s as nourishing as it is tasty.

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Turn Off the Stove Chicken Soup

Time--not wasted gas or energy--is the workhorse behind this soup. Simply sauté a handful of flavorful ingredients, add stock, bring to a boil, slap on the lid and turn off the heat. Walk away and when you come back, open the pot to a soup that tastes like it took hours to prepare. While optional, the Parmesan rind melts into the soup and adds a rich umami flavor. Make sure the lid is on tight though, as the rice will cook more slowly if steam is escaping.

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Ribbony Shrimp and Pasta Scampi

Medium-size shrimp are the perfect size for a twirl of spaghetti shot through with ribbons of squash. Have vegetarians at the table? Omit the shrimp, double the tomatoes and serve with a spoonful of part-skim ricotta cheese on top.

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Baked Shrimp with Tomatoes and Feta

Simmered in tomato, shrimp gets a warm and cozy treatment in Ellie Krieger’s weeknight meal. Top with feta for cheesy goodness.

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Coconut Milk Poached Chicken with Quinoa and Roasted Broccolini

Poaching chicken thighs in coconut milk with lots of aromatic ingredients imparts lots of flavor and keeps the chicken super juicy. For a well-balanced meal, we serve it with fluffy whole-grain quinoa and tender broccolini which add a lovely textural contrast. Fresh herbs and toasted sesame seeds are the perfect finishing touches to this healthy dinner.

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Ground Turkey Enchilada Stir-Fry with Couscous

We love this fun take on enchiladas. It has the same great smoky spicy, sweet flavor you'd find in the classic version — but this one will fill up on squash, broccoli and black beans (instead of cheese and tortillas). Serve with a garnish of cilantro, fresh lime juice, diced avocado and a bit of shredded cheese for maximum enchilada feels.

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Kale and Artichoke Chicken Casserole

Casseroles have a pretty bad reputation (think TV dinners cooked in the microwave that lack texture, flavor and identifiable ingredients), but this Kale and Artichoke Chicken Casserole is here to turn that common misconception on its head. The real deal, this casserole marries the flavors of kale, artichoke hearts, onion, chicken and grated Parmesan cheese through a dreamy, creamy sauce and lots of panko bread crumbs. Did we mention it gets topped with additional Parm and then broiled to become a toasty, cheesy miracle? Oh, well it does, so break out your forks.

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Healthy Tuna Grain Bowl with Turmeric Sweet Potatoes and Spicy Yogurt Dressing

This healthy grain bowl is loaded with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, thanks to the tangy, spicy yogurt sauce and turmeric-roasted sweet potatoes. Plus, you can easily make this dish from pantry staples and long-lasting freezer items. Serve with an extra squeeze of lime juice for a nutrient-packed and sustaining meal.

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Cajun Cabbage Skillet

This easy skillet dinner comes together quickly, making it a perfect option for a weeknight. We used spicy andouille sausages to give the dish a little kick, but any type of sausage would work. Cooking at medium-high heat allows the sausage and vegetables to get nice and caramelized in a short amount of time, but if they ever start to overcook, stir in a splash of cold water to cool the pan down.

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Ghanaian Egg Stew

Egg stew, also referred to as "egg sauce," is made in several West African countries, with many similarities and a few differences. In Ghana, the stew is made with tomato puree, while in Nigeria, it is made with both tomatoes and bell peppers. In this recipe, recipe developer Gabi Odebode adds garlic to boost the flavor of the stew and uses vegetable oil instead of stronger-flavored palm oil, which can dominate. In some countries, egg stew is eaten alongside cooked yam or plantains for breakfast. Try this for breakfast or brunch, or add steamed rice and enjoy it for lunch or dinner too.

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Dal

A nod to the richly flavored lentil stews enjoyed throughout India, this dal comes together fast and is scented with curry paste and garam masala. Plus, it's a great way to get plenty of protein and fiber onto your plate.

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Shrimp Taco Soup

This nutrient-packed soup combines tender shrimp, fresh vegetables and zesty homemade taco seasoning in a tomato-y broth. Loaded with healthy ingredients like peppers, corn and black beans, it's a satisfying meal that's refreshing, filling and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or flavorful lunch. Finish it off with a squeeze of lime, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and crunchy crushed tortilla chips for the ultimate taco treatment.

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Chili Chicken with Hominy Hash

Not only is this meal quick and delicious, it's also brimming with unexpected flavor! You'll use a zesty blend of chili powder, cumin, cinnamon and lime to coat your chicken thighs and roast hominy, squash and bell pepper together to make the mouthwatering side.

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Chicken Katsu with Ginger Rice

The perfect trio: Lightly breaded chicken, vibrant ginger and bok choy rice, tangy Katsu sauce. Prepared in about half an hour, this Asian inspired dish establishes layers of flavors through seemingly simple ingredients like ginger, bok choy and rice. Once married together, though, each ingredient shines in a special way. Pair it with the crispy fried chicken and you’ll have an array of unparalleled flavors and textures.

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Coconut-Crusted Shrimp with Pineapple-Chili Sauce

Think just because you're eating healthy, indulgent-tasting dishes like coconut-crusted shrimp are off limits? In this ingenious rendition, you can dig right in, all the way down to the delectable sweet-and-sour dipping sauce.

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Honey-Soy Grilled Salmon with Edamame

The natural Omega-3 fats in salmon make it a great choice for a healthy meal that doesn't need much added fat. Stuff a mixture of fresh herbs into the salmon to infuse the fish with bright flavor.

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Whole-Wheat Fettuccine with Zucchini Ribbons

A combination of zucchini and yellow summer squash, cut into thin ribbons, makes this pasta as colorful as it is vegetable-packed. Whole-wheat pasta adds more fiber to the mix.

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Pork Chops With Fennel and Hot Honey

The key to this simple but satisfying pork chop dish is to take the time to brown and caramelize the fennel, which gets finished with hot honey, orange juice and vinegar for a major flavor boost. The caramelized fennel is the perfect complement to the savory, spice-crusted pork chops.

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Pasta Puttanesca

The beauty of this classic Italian pasta dish is that is comes together quickly with ingredients you most likely already have in your pantry, like spaghetti, canned tomatoes, garlic, anchovy paste and crushed red pepper flakes.

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Pork Tenderloin with Sugar Snap Pea Salad

List of underrated summer veggies: Sugar snap peas, sugar snap peas and, uh, oh yeah, sugar snap peas. These green goddesses are crisp, sweet and perfectly palatable on their own, with a bit of hummus or even pickled! If you’re a sugar snap peas newbie, start off with this Pork Tenderloin with Sugar Snap Pea Salad. The pork tenderloin is juicy on the inside with a nice crust on the outside and is accompanied by a special sugar snap pea salad. It’s not your average peas and carrots, but rather a dainty little salad of watercress, steam snap peas, steamed carrots and sliced almonds, dressed with a parsley-mustard-garlic vinaigrette.

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Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas

These protein-packed fajitas cleverly use a foil-lined baking sheet and broiler to make a quick and healthy weeknight meal with easy cleanup. What's not to love about that?!

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Lemon-Garlic Shrimp and Grits

You won't find sticks of butter in this comfort food. Don't worry about flavor, though; these shrimp are plenty zesty from the lemon and garlic.

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Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Pasta

This Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Pasta is a weeknight dinner hero — creamy, bold, and ready in under 30 minutes. Prepared hummus is the secret shortcut to a velvety, flavor-packed sauce that clings to every noodle. Crispy capers, fresh oregano, lemon, and crushed red pepper flakes add bright and savory notes. It’s a pantry-friendly dish that feels anything but basic.

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30-Minute Spicy Pork and Sweet Potato Stew

Spicy, smoky chipotle chiles and chili powder add long-cooked flavor to this quick pork stew. To save time and use less fat, only the pork is browned in oil, while the onions get pureed with tomatoes, garlic and the chile to make the broth.

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Fettuccine with Walnuts and Parsley

Ellie's creamy fettuccine studded with crunchy walnuts will sate your pasta cravings without blowing your wellness goals. Need more protein? Top with grilled chicken or shrimp.

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Pork Tenderloin with Seasoned Rub

This lean cut of meat gets tons of flavor from an easy dried-spice rub. Slice it and serve with rice or salad for a restaurant-worthy meal, right at home.

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Garlic Shrimp With Yellow Rice

You can’t go wrong with this simple buttery and garlicky shrimp dish, inspired by Puerto Rican camarones al ajillo. We serve it here with yellow rice and some sliced tomatoes and avocado on the side, but a green salad, beans or fried plantains would work just as well.

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Roasted Salmon With Shallot Grapefruit Sauce

Ellie's roasted salmon recipe relies on the bold flavors of grapefruit, shallot and ginger to add big flavor without a ton of fat and calories. It's the perfect way to enjoy a healthy meal, without getting tired of your options.

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Shrimp and Cauliflower "Grits"

This healthy twist on a Southern classic is a great addition to a weeknight lineup. Packed with protein and fiber — and creamy faux grits made from cauliflower — it's satisfying and delicious.

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Nargesi

Nargesi is a classic Persian recipe that’s made with spinach and eggs and seasoned mainly with turmeric and garlic. The eggs can be scrambled into the spinach or, as here, poached on top like when making shakshuka. Serve this dish for breakfast or a light dinner, with some warm bread for a complete meal.

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Garlic-Ginger Chicken Thighs

Save yourself some time on the day of a cookout and marinade your chicken in a blend of garlic, ginger, soy sauce and orange juice the night before. You'll have a healthy protein that tastes great, ready to go!

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Aloo Gobi

Cauliflower and potatoes come together with fragrant spices like turmeric, coriander and cumin in this hearty veg-forward curry enjoyed throughout India and Pakistan. This recipe is guaranteed to become one of your healthy go-tos!

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Indian Shrimp and Lentils

A great source of protein, lentils are an underappreciated legume. They absorb flavors really well, have a hearty but soft texture and serve as a versatile backdrop to so many other ingredients. One example? This Indian Shrimp and Lentils dish. The lentils adopt the flavors of the shallot, garlic, garam masala and coconut cream to create a smooth, creamy, protein packed bed upon which the (just as flavorful!) shrimp rest. Enjoy with a garnish of fresh cilantro for an extra fresh element.

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Salmon with Sweet & Spicy Rub

Ellie's 17-minute salmon fillets contain just 280 calories per serving. She saves time in the kitchen with her quick and easy seasoning, which includes chili powder, cumin and some light brown sugar, keeping flavors bold and the fat content low.
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Fettuccine with Creamy Red Pepper Sauce

Jarred roasted red peppers, packed with flavor, make this weeknight pasta dish come together in a flash. Tangy feta is crumbled atop the whole-wheat noodles.

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Shrimp Stir-Fry

Ree's quick shrimp stir-fry is chock full of summer ingredients like sweet corn, zucchini, grape tomatoes and fresh basil. You can serve this dish with rice or pasta, but it's just perfect on its own.

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Maple-Mustard Roasted Salmon

Made with just five ingredients (plus salt and pepper), this salmon recipe is primed for weeknight cooking. Just spread the mustard-maple sauce over each fillet, and then bake until the fish is cooked through. The dish will be ready in just 20 minutes.
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Chinese-Style Steamed Fish Fillets

Steamed fish is a delicious Chinese classic that’s not only famously good for you and but also easy on the prep — our version can be on the table in just about 30 minutes. Our take on this dish makes a few adjustments to emphasize its healthy, high-protein aspects for a well-balanced meal delivering 25 grams of protein and less fat than some recipes. Steaming is a traditional method for preserving the tenderness and delicate taste of fish, and adding a layer of napa cabbage underneath prevents sticking and acts as a bed of tender vegetables for serving. While Chinese steamed fish is often made with a whole fish, we opted for fish fillets for easy prep and serving. A flavorful mix of low-sodium soy sauce, garlic, ginger and a hint of chile give the fish a beautiful base flavoring. A finish of hot oil infused with aromatics is poured over the dish for dramatic sizzle and the mouthwatering aroma and flavor this style is known for. Pair this high-protein main with steamed brown rice for extra fiber.

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Grilled Chicken with Avocado Pesto

Fill your summer pesto with the usual fresh herbs, think basil and parsley, but then give it a fun upgrade — with avocado! It'll make your pesto super creamy and give it an extra dose of heart-healthy fats.

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Pasta Primavera

This light-yet-satisfying vegetarian dish features whole-wheat pasta plus a few nutritional powerhouses like mushrooms (which are loaded with B vitamins and potassium) and red peppers (which are filled with vitamin C). Fresh, colorful and delicious!

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Steamed Garlic Butter Shrimp with Noodles and Asparagus

Buttery, garlicky shrimp is a classic combination, and thanks to a few adjustments this recipe makes it a healthy, high-protein one as well. Our version is loosely based on Hawaii’s wildly popular garlic shrimp, a food truck staple on O‘ahu’s North Shore. But instead of pan-frying the shrimp, we steam it, a healthy trick for tender, beautifully plump shrimp. We also add a full bunch of asparagus and replace the standard white rice with sweet potato noodles — sometimes called Korean glass noodles — for a delightfully tasty, chewy base. Besides loads of garlic, we toss the shrimp with the usual paprika and cayenne pepper but also sneak in a little fish sauce for depth of flavor. A generous amount of cubed butter dotted over everything bathes the dish for big, buttery flavor and aroma as it steams but keeps it nicely low in fat and calories. A garnish of chopped chile, parsley and fresh lemon ties everything together for a memorable one-pot meal you can feel fantastic about, 38 grams of protein and all!

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Pork Marsala with Polenta

One teaspoon of orange juice and a 1/2 teaspoon of orange zest give the sauce for this low-calorie marsala a burst of citrusy flavor. When baking your polenta slices in the oven, be sure to brush them with a tablespoon of olive oil to keep them moist.

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Caesar Beans

This refreshing twist on the classic Caesar salad takes the dish in a healthy main-course direction. It’s vegetarian, egg-free and packed with protein from tender white Navy beans and a zesty yogurt-and-Parmesan dressing. The addition of crispy golden breadcrumbs infused with garlic adds the classic Caesar crunch to each bite, no croutons needed. Serve it as a satisfying lunch or dinner salad or a protein-rich side dish that could steal the show.

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Spicy Kale and Corn Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Superfood kale and sweet corn create a duo rich in vitamin A. The pepper jack cheese adds tons of spice while binding the stuffing for the chicken. If spicy's not your thing, try Monterey Jack or Havarti cheese instead for creamy without the heat.

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Oven-Baked Salmon

This salmon dinner couldn't be simpler. Season the fish with salt and pepper, then pop it in the oven to bake to perfection in 15 minutes. An easy-to-make parsley and almond salsa goes on top.

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Egg-and-Kimchi Rice Bowls

For maximum flavor factor on this 20-minute meal, break the yolk and mix it with the rice just before eating. Its richness goes nicely with the spicy-vinegary kimchi sauce.

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Chipotle-Orange Glazed Pork Chops

Maple syrup, orange juice concentrate and chipotles in adobo make a sweet and smoky glaze for lean, center-cut pork chops. Ellie removes the chipotle seeds before preparing the glaze — that way, you get more flavor than heat.
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Angel-Hair Pasta with Shrimp and Greens

Balance out carbs with shrimp. One dozen shrimp is just 85 calories, plus shrimp is packed with protein and selenium, a powerful antioxidant — making this a balanced meal that tastes great and is ready fast.

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Lemony Shrimp Scampi with Orzo and Arugula

Giada combines fresh lemon flavor with easy orzo and shrimp in one dish. It's easy enough to make on a weeknight, but it's also so delicious that you'll want to make it the next time you're entertaining company.

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My Big Fat Greek Burgers

Ellie's burger is far from the hockey puck variety that claims to be healthy. A spinach-and-feta-cheese stuffing makes this burger juicy and satisfying, especially when topped with a lemon-and-dill yogurt sauce.

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Garden Egg Salad

With a few healthy swaps, it's easy to make a lighter take on traditional egg salad. Divide the egg salad among the lettuce leaves, top with sprouts and roll up for a hand-held meal.
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Kale and Apple Salad

Antioxidant-rich kale is even better for you when eaten raw. Thin strips are softened in a light lemon dressing, then tossed with the savory-sweet blend of apple, dates, almonds and cheese. A little pecorino goes a long way in giving this nutritious salad a satisfying depth of flavor.
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Healthy BBQ Salmon Sheet Pan Dinner

Protein- and fiber-packed, this healthy and streamlined salmon dinner for two can be cooked all on one sheet pan. The veggies get a head start, then BBQ-rubbed salmon fillets join in and everything finishes the race at the same time.

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Photo: Kate Mathis
71 / 100

Shrimp and Cauliflower "Grits"

Cheesy and buttery cauliflower poses as grits in this delicious dish, proving you can have your shrimp and "grits" and a healthy serving of veggies, all in one. What could be better than that?!

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72 / 100

20-Minute Shrimp and Couscous with Yogurt-Hummus Sauce

This speedy shrimp dish gets you whole grains, protein, vegetables and fruit all ready to go in 5 minutes. Pro tip: Prep the couscous while the shrimp broils so everything is ready at the same time.

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Photo: Matt Armendariz ©
73 / 100

Hummus and Grilled Vegetable Wrap

Use store bought hummus, whole wheat wraps and a bunch of fresh, crisp veggies to roll up this delicious portable lunch. You won't find a healthier alternative on the go!

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Photo: Matt Armendariz
74 / 100

Lighter Shrimp Scampi

Traditional shrimp scampi is loaded with butter. This version is cooked in chicken broth instead and gets an extra punch of flavor from kalamata olives, so you can enjoy it anytime while sticking to your healthy eating goals.

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Photo: Matt Armendariz ©
75 / 100

Ham, Apple and Cheese Quesadilla

For a quick but filling meal, fill whole-wheat tortillas with low-sodium ham and Swiss cheese. Sliced apple adds sweetness while mustard gives it kick.
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Photo: Stephen Johnson ©
76 / 100

20-Minute Chicken Thighs and Couscous with Dill

Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts is a smart way to make sure the meat stays moist and flavorful. Plus, the grape tomatoes soften under the heat of the broiler, adding more juicy goodness to the chicken. Lots of lemon, plus dill and oregano, give the dish a Greek feel.

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Photo: Matt Armendariz ©
77 / 100

Mini Meatloaves

Who knew meatloaf could be so healthy (or so cute)? These mini loaves are made with a mix of lean ground turkey and pork, and their small size helps keep portions in check.

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Photo: Tara Donne ©
78 / 100

Herbed Chicken Marsala

Smothered in low-calorie sauteed mushrooms and sundried tomatoes, this dish is both healthy and satisfying. A little bit of butter goes a long way in the sauce — just a touch adds creamy richness.

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Photo: Armando Rafael Moutela ©
79 / 100

Tricolore Penne Pasta with Chicken

Cook skinless chicken breasts with garlic, tomatoes and arugula to serve as a sauce for whole-wheat pasta. Be sure to save the pasta water so that you can add it as needed for a wetter sauce.
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80 / 100

Grilled Chicken with Tomato-Cucumber Salad

Ditch starchy sides in favor of this energizing salad of cucumbers and tomatoes. The simple dill-and-lemon dressing complements the grilled chicken without heaping on extra fat or sugar. 
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Photo: KATE MATHIS
81 / 100

Seared Salmon with Ponzu and Baby Bok Choy

Get jammin’ with salmon one night this week. You’re also in the mood for ponzu and baby bok choy, you say? How serendipitous! We just so happen to have this crazy good Seared Salmon with Ponzu and Baby Bok Choy recipe ready for you. Made with soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, fresh lime and fresh ginger (among other tasty ingredients!), the recipe’s ponzu sauce emphasizes the natural sweetness of the fish and the crispness of the bok choy with its zesty pizzazz.

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Photo: Tara Donne
82 / 100

Shrimp and Cauliflower Grits

This healthy twist on a Southern classic is a great addition to a weeknight line-up. Packed with protein and fiber -- and creamy faux grits made from cauliflower -- it's satisfying and delicious.

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83 / 100

Tricolor Salad Pizzas

Ellie saves time by using store-bought whole wheat pizza dough for this simple pie. Cut down on the fat by using part-skim mozzarella and ricotta cheeses.
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84 / 100

Aida's Lemon Chicken with Artichoke Hearts

Artichokes transform lemon chicken into a quick and hearty dinner. Let them simmer in the pan for a few minutes so that they become juicy and fully infused with the wine, onion and garlic sauce.
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85 / 100

Butternut Squash and Gorgonzola Pizza

Who needs marinara sauce? Ellie Kriger tops this savory pie with butternut squash, gorgonzola cheese, red onions, sage and walnuts.
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Photo: Armando Rafael Moutela ©
86 / 100

Sage Rubbed Pork Chops with Warm Apple Slaw

This Sage Rubbed Pork Chops with Warm Apple Slaw recipe is an alternative take on the classic pork chops and apple sauce. With a perfectly cooked chop seared on all sides, then finished in the pan with a mixture of apple, onion, carrot and cabbage, this dish is hard to beat. But adding the warm apple slaw on the side hits the dish out of the park. If you’re looking to streamline the recipe, buy precut slaw mix instead of breaking down your own carrots and cabbage.

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87 / 100

Blackened Salmon with Spinach and Black-Eyed Peas

Give salmon fillets a pop of flavor with Cajun seasoning. Pro Tip: Be sure to salt both sides of your fillet for max flavor — unless your Cajun seasoning blend already contains salt.

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Photo: Stephen Johnson ©
88 / 100

Honey Mustard and Red Onion Barbecued Chicken

Rachael Ray coats juicy chicken pieces in a mixture of brown sugar, honey mustard, allspice and curry for sweet-spicy flavor. Then, she grills the chicken to smoky-charred perfection. You're going to love it.

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Photo: Stephen Johnson ©
89 / 100

25-Minute Cod with Lentils

Using canned lentils instead of raw saves you at least 30 minutes of cooking time. Here, we simmer them quickly with bacon and red wine to play up their earthy flavor; sliced celery stirred in at the end adds a fresh, crisp note. The lentils make a terrific bed for the mild, meaty cod fillets.

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Photo: Charles Masters
90 / 100

Chicken-Chickpea Curry

A fan favorite, curry dishes are super simple to make and also pack a lot of flavor. This healthy Chicken-Chickpea Curry omits coconut milk, a typical ingredient found within curry, but swaps in the starchy goodness of chickpeas to add a creamy element to the dish. Peppered with other power foods like jalapeno, okra, tomatoes and ginger, this flavorful curry is great paired with a bit of plain yogurt and naan bread.

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Photo: Tara Donne
91 / 100

Grilled Steak With Green Beans, Tomatoes and Chimichurri Sauce

Stretch your strip steaks by serving smaller portions alongside a hearty serving of grilled green beans and tomatoes. It delivers all the flavor you're craving, along with the nutrition your body needs.

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92 / 100

Pressure Cooker Beef Stroganoff

Pressure cookers take the pressure off you, making it easy to cook long-braise dishes for weeknight dinners. This beef stroganoff uses lean beef chuck for a high-protein feast.
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93 / 100

Shortcut Chicken Chili

You've got to love a good shortcut — especially when it makes healthy eating easier! This chili uses cooked, rotisserie chicken for a ligthened up version of the comfort food classic in a fraction of the time.

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Photo: Antonis Achilleos
94 / 100

Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Pancetta and Broccoli Rabe

These loaded sweet potatoes are packed with garlicky vegetables and crispy pancetta. Topped with a light ricotta-Parmesan sauce (spiced with a hint of nutmeg), they make for the perfect, wholesome meal.

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95 / 100

Fish Taco Salad

The spice mix Ree uses to season the fish is great for seasoning so many other things as well. It can be used for chicken tacos, veggie fajitas—in fact, it works well in any Tex-Mex dish.

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Photo: Christopher Testani
96 / 100

Blackened Salmon with Lima Bean Smashed Potatoes

Rich in flavor when prepared simply, salmon is a very versatile fish that absorbs flavor well, which is why this Blackened Salmon with Lima Bean Smashed Potatoes is the dinner you need in your life. The fish is heavily rubbed with a spicy combination of paprika, thyme and cayenne pepper to deeply season it and create a beautiful crust on its exterior when it hits the heat. Paired with a bright lima bean smashed potato side, this dish is the ultimate dinner for a busy weeknight.

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97 / 100

Pasta with Escarole, White Beans and Chicken Sausage

Ellie manages to pack a whopping 30 grams of protein into just one serving of this pasta dish with help from whole-wheat bowtie pasta, chicken sausage and cannellini beans. The escarole is key to adding a leafy crunch and, most important, fiber. 
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Photo: Antonis Achilleos
98 / 100

Chicken and Asparagus Crepes

When you need a healthy, satisfyng dinner fast, fill store-bought crepes with shredded rotisserie chicken, ricotta cheese and herbs. Top with fresh asparagus and a light, lemony sauce and you're ready to eat!

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99 / 100

Grilled Chipotle Pork Tacos with Red Slaw and Brown Sugar Pineapple

Combine the best of both worlds, savory and sweet, by serving succulent grilled pork tacos with chunks of pineapple. The sweetness of the fruit will perfectly complement the heat from the chipotle chile powder in the pork rub.

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Photo: KATE MATHIS
100 / 100

Sauteed Chicken Breasts with Fresh Herbs and Ginger

This one-skillet recipe pairs sauteed chicken with ginger, basil and mint for a dish that's packed with flavor. Plus, it comes together in only 25 minutes — so it's an ideal choice any night of the week.

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