Healthy Weeknight Dinners

Spice up weeknight dinners with our best healthy recipes from Food Network chefs.

Save Collection

Related To:

Photo By: Antonis Achilleos

Photo By: Tara Donne

©Food stylist: Jamie Kimm Prop Stylist: Marina Malchin

Photo By: Kate Mathis

Photo By: Tara Donne

Photo By: Charles Masters

Photo By: Antonis Achilleos

Photo By: Ryan Dausch

Photo By: Tara Donne

Photo By: Tara Donne ©Tara Donne

Photo By: Tara Donne © Tara Donne

Photo By: Tara Donne

Photo By: Ryan Dausch

Photo By: Armando Rafael

Photo By: Antonis Achilleos

Photo By: Tara Donne

Photo By: Antonis Achilleos

Photo By: James Wojcik

Photo By: Antonis Achilleos

Photo By: Tara Donne

Photo By: Andrew McCaul

Photo By: Antonis Achilleos

©Marcus Nilsson

Photo By: Tara Donne ©FOOD NETWORK : 2012, Television Food Network, G.P.

Photo By: Tara Donne

Photo By: Christopher Testani

Photo By: Antonis Achilleos

Photo By: Christopher Testani

Photo By: Con Poulos

Photo By: Antonis Achilleos

Photo By: Con Poulos

Photo By: Kang Kim

Photo By: Armando Rafael

Photo By: Andrew Purcell

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.

Get the Recipe: Oven-Baked Salmon

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.

Get the Recipe: Lemon-Garlic Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp, Watercress and Farro Salad

This Shrimp, Watercress and Farro Salad will leave you feel totally satisfied but not overstuffed.

Get the Recipe: Shrimp, Watercress and Farro Salad

Alton's Lentil Soup

Cozy up with a bowl of lentil soup. Alton's version is packed with fiber, potassium, folate and other B vitamins.

Get the Recipe: Lentil Soup

Fettuccine with Walnuts and Parsley

Ellie Krieger's creamy fettuccine will sate your pasta cravings without blowing your diet.

Get the Recipe: Fettuccine with Walnuts and Parsley

Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

You'll save both time and calories with this zesty shrimp risotto.

Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

Roman-Style Chicken

Giada De Laurentiis packs her chicken dish with fresh herbs, tomatoes and peppers, keeping it light yet satisfying.

Get the Recipe: Roman-Style Chicken

40 Cloves and a Chicken

Alton bakes chicken with 40 — yes 40 — cloves of garlic and fresh thyme. The sharp flavor of the garlic mellows as it cooks and the resulting meat is exceptionally flavorful.

Get the Recipe: 40 Cloves and a Chicken

Eat-Your-Veggies Mediterranean Meatballs

These meatballs have a secret -- they're packed with spinach. Veggie-shy kids (and adults) won't even notice since they are happily tucked into a warm pita with lettuce and tomato and drizzled with tangy dill yogurt sauce.

Get the Recipe: Eat-Your-Veggies Mediterranean Meatballs

Cauliflower Gnocchi

We subbed in cauliflower for all-purpose flour to make a soft and fluffy gnocchi. Toss it in nutty brown butter-caper sauce for an indulgent gluten-free dinner.

Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Gnocchi

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.

Get the Recipe: Healthy Chipotle Beer-and-Butter Shrimp Foil Pack

Eat-Your-Veggies Italian Meatballs

Amp up spaghetti night with these clever veggie-packed meatballs. Convenient frozen collards and canned black beans are easy to sneak into the mix.

Get the Recipe: Eat-Your-Veggies Italian Meatballs

Teriyaki Hens with Bok Choy

Serve Cornish game hens alongside leafy bok choy and plump grapefruit slices. The combination of soy sauce, hoisin, vinegar, ginger and chile pepper in the hen marinade creates the perfect complement for the sweet-sour grapefruit.

Get the Recipe: Teriyaki Hens with Bok Choy

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.

Get the Recipe: Healthy BBQ Salmon Sheet Pan Dinner

Zucchini Enchiladas

Instead of tortillas, this genius recipe calls for enchilada filling to be rolled up inside thin zucchini ribbons, cutting the carb count to just 10 grams per serving.

Get the Recipe: Zucchini Enchiladas

Herb-Marinated Pork Tenderloins

Simple ingredients, including garlic, Dijon and a mix of fresh rosemary and thyme, add up to rich flavor in Ina's pork tenderloin.

Get the Recipe: Herb-Marinated Pork Tenderloins

Eat-Your-Veggies Pork Scallion Meatballs

These veggie-packed meatball lettuce cups are like pork dumplings without the, well, dumpling. Perfect for kids (and adults) who aren't veggie lovers, they're full of flavor. Pozu sauce makes a bright, citrusy dip.

Get the Recipe: Eat-Your-Veggies Pork Scallion Meatballs

Slow-Cooker Chicken Chili

This slow-cooked chili is quick to prep and delicious. The cinnamon and molasses add a touch of earthiness and round out the flavors.

Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Chili

Coconut-Crusted Shrimp with Pineapple-Chili Sauce

Think just because you're eating healthy doesn't mean 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.

Get the Recipe: Whole30 Coconut-Crusted Shrimp with Pineapple-Chili Sauce

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.

Get the Recipe: Fettuccine with Creamy Red Pepper-Feta Sauce

Buddha Bowl

A Buddha bowl, grain bowl or harvest bowl is a healthy trend we can get behind! Balanced with lots of colorful produce plus healthy grains and proteins, Buddha bowls are fun to create and easy to make.

Get the Recipe: Buddha Bowl

Coconut Shrimp with Tropical Rice

This simple oven-baked coconut shrimp recipe pairs perfectly with a light coconut-scented rice.

Get the Recipe: Coconut Shrimp with Tropical Rice

Pork Chops with Apples and Garlic-Smashed Potatoes

This company-worthy meal is deceptively simple to prepare. Baby potatoes, garlic and buttermilk make the mashers flavorful without lots of added fat.

Get the Recipe: Pork Chops With Apples and Garlic Smashed Potatoes

Shrimp Gumbo

Alton Brown's version of this bayou favorite is made with shrimp and a bit of spicy andouille sausage; serve it over white or brown rice to soak up the richly flavored sauce.

Get the Recipe: Shrimp Gumbo

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 and then grills the chicken to smoky-charred perfection.

Get the Recipe: Honey Mustard and Red Onion Barbecued Chicken

Slimmed-Down Chicken Pot Pie

These satisfying pot pies are filled with chicken breast meat, carrots, mushrooms, celery and turnips and are topped with just a few sheets of phyllo dough.

Get the Recipe: Slimmed Down - Chicken Pot Pie

Asian Chicken Noodle Soup

Not only is this soup brimming with heart-healthy vegetables, the star anise used inside the broth is filled with plenty of antioxidants so it's perfect for nights when you're feeling a bit under the weather.

Get the Recipe: Asian Chicken Noodle Soup

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.

Get the Recipe: Shrimp Stir-Fry

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.

Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas

Roasted Salmon Tacos

Tacos don't have to take your healthy diet off track! Ina's are packed with heart-healthy salmon, a crunchy cabbage-cucumber slaw and creamy avocado mash.

Get the Recipe: Roasted Salmon Tacos

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.

Get the Recipe: My Big Fat Greek Burgers

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.

Get the Recipe: Pan-Seared Salmon with Kale and Apple Salad

Ellie's Buffalo Chicken Salad

By making her own sauce and dressing, Ellie packs all the Buffalo kick and creaminess of blue cheese in this restaurant-favorite salad, without all the fat.

Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Salad

Linguine with Chicken Ragu

While browning the chicken thighs for her chicken ragu, Giada tosses in some chopped rosemary leaves. This aromatic herb adds a robust, earthy flavor to the marinara sauce.

Get the Recipe: Linguine with Chicken Ragu

Asian Turkey Burgers

Food Network Kitchen lightened these burgers by cutting back on the meat and adding some texture with bulgur. Top burgers with quick-pickled cucumbers and onions and a spicy yogurt sauce.

Get the Recipe: Asian Turkey Burgers

Chicken Divan

Update this dish while still keeping all classic elements: crisp broccoli, juicy chicken and a tasty Parmesan sauce. Food Network Kitchen used a mixture of low-fat evaporated milk, broth and sherry for a creamy, rich-tasting sauce.

Get the Recipe: Stuffed Chicken Divan with a Sherry Dijon Sauce

Lighter Spaghetti and Meatballs

Food Network Kitchen stretched out the decadence of the beef by adding a portobello mushroom and using an egg white in the meatballs. Use whole-wheat spaghetti for added fiber.

Get the Recipe: Lighter Spaghetti and Meatballs

Slow-Cooker Pork Tacos

Start the meat in a slow-cooker before you go out for the day and come home to tender, flavorful pork tacos. Or, if you don't want to wait, make this recipe in a Dutch oven in half the time.

Get the Recipe: Slow-Cooker Pork Tacos

Lighter Shrimp Scampi

Traditional shrimp scampi is loaded with butter, however this version is cooked in chicken broth instead and gets an extra punch of flavor from kalamata olives.

Get the Recipe: Lightened-Up Shrimp Scampi

Three-Bean and Beef Chili

Ellie uses extra-lean ground beef to slim down this hearty chili, but you'd never notice anything missing, thanks to a flavorful three-bean combo (black beans, kidney and pinto) and the addition of a smoky chipotle chile.

Get the Recipe: Three Bean and Beef Chili

Surf and Turf Paella

Enjoy a small portion of steak and shrimp in this luxurious healthy dinner. Jazz up rice, Spanish-style, with saffron, tomatoes and peas.

Get the Recipe: Surf 'n Turf Paella

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.

Get the Recipe: Grilled Steak with Green Beans, Tomatoes and Chimichurri Sauce

Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe Pesto

If you're craving pesto-laced pasta, give Anne Burrell's veggie-rich version a try. To cut down on oil, she adds ricotta cheese to the sauce, then blends in bitter broccoli rabe, toasted walnuts and a bit of Parmesan cheese.

Get the Recipe: Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe Pesto

Broiled Tilapia and Eggplant with Moroccan Pesto

Versatile and inexpensive tilapia gets the Moroccan treatment with couscous, eggplant and a verdant pesto.

Get the Recipe: Broiled Tilapia and Eggplant with Moroccan Pesto

Turkey Meatloaf with Feta and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Feta and sun-dried tomatoes add exotic flavor to Giada's healthy turkey meatloaf.

Get the Recipe: Turkey Meatloaf with Feta and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

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.

Get the Recipe: Dirty P's Garlic-Ginger Chicken Thighs

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.

Get the Recipe: Honey Soy Grilled Salmon with Edamame

Oven-Fried Chicken

Tenderize skinless chicken pieces with a skim milk, lemon and herb marinade. Cornmeal and whole-wheat breadcrumbs make a crunchy coating with few calories.

Get the Recipe: Oven Fried Chicken

French Three-Onion Soup

Food Network Kitchen took the best part of this classic soup — all the sweet caramelized onions — and left behind all the fat. Steam onions to get the caramelization started, then sprinkle with a little grated Gruyere just before serving.

Get the Recipe: French Three Onion Soup

Broiled Halibut with Ricotta-Pea Puree

It's easy to eat a rainbow of foods with a colorful dish like this. Pair broiled halibut with a bright green pea and ricotta puree plus jewel-toned roasted carrots and red onion.

Get the Recipe: Broiled Halibut with Ricotta-Pea Puree

Curried Chicken and Rice Soup

Hearty chicken soup spiced with curry powder and fresh herbs will satisfy your craving for something warm and comforting without contributing extra fat to your diet.

Get the Recipe: Curried Chicken and Rice Soup

Hearty Italian Chicken and Vegetable Soup

This chicken soup is packed with lots of good-for-you vegetables. Enhance store-bought broth with herbs and lemon for a quick soup that tastes like you simmered it all day long.

Get the Recipe: Hearty Italian Chicken and Vegetable Soup

Mushroom-Caraway Soup

Instead of thickening the soup with heavy cream (and unnecessary fat), this recipe uses a touch of creme fraiche to garnish.

Get the Recipe: Mushroom-Caraway Soup

Whole-Wheat Spinach Mac 'n' Cheese with Broiled Tomatoes

Thanks to whole-wheat pasta shells and the addition of pumpkin puree, this macaroni and cheese dish has more fiber than the traditional version. And the dish has lots of built-in produce: Toss spinach in with the noodles, and serve broiled tomatoes and a handful of grapes on the side.

Get the Recipe: Whole Wheat Spinach Mac n Cheese with Broiled Tomatoes

Chicken and Dumplings

This crowd-pleasing chicken favorite has a healthier profile, thanks to low-fat milk and white whole-wheat flour in the comforting dumplings.

Get the Recipe: Chicken and Dumplings

Orange Chicken Fingers

Give baked chicken fingers a light, crispy crust by coating them in crushed rice cereal. Pair with a low-sugar orange dipping sauce and Asian-inspired carrot salad for a complete meal.

Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken Fingers

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.

Get the Recipe: Roasted Salmon with Shallot Grapefruit Sauce

Bobby's Baked Tilapia

Bobby Deen's easy baked tilapia is made with just five ingredients and will be on your table in less than 30 minutes.

Get the Recipe: Bobby's Baked Tilapia

Vegetable Frittata

A mix of whole eggs and egg whites in this frittata keeps the flavor of egg yolks with half the fat.

Get the Recipe: Vegetable Frittata

Chicken Fingers with Curried Ketchup

Serve this kid-favorite meal with steamed broccoli and sauce for just 330 calories per serving. Ketchup dressed up with curry powder makes a quick, simple dipper.

Get the Recipe: Chicken Fingers With Curried Ketchup

Grilled Marinated Leg of Lamb with Asparagus and Mint Chimichurri

Lamb and mint are a classic combination; the chimichurri sauce in this recipe is a fun riff on these staples.

Get the Recipe: Grilled Marinated Leg of Lamb with Asparagus and Mint Chimichurri

Spaghetti or Not

Have a pasta night without the pasta! Enjoy Italian flavors from pancetta, fresh basil and olives in this puttanesca-inspired sauce served over tender spaghetti squash.

Get the Recipe: Spaghetti or Not

Spring Chicken Salad

Store-bought rotisserie chicken is the secret behind this hearty entree salad that's ready in 20 minutes.

Get the Recipe: Spring Chicken Salad

Tilapia Masala with Rice

Tilapia is a quick-cooking, mild-flavored fish that also happens to be budget-friendly. Try it flavored with Indian spices and served simply, with rice.

Get the Recipe: Tilapia Masala With Rice

Pork Tenderloin with Seasoned Rub

This lean cut of meat gets tons of flavor from an easy dried-spice rub.

Get the Recipe: Pork Tenderloin with Seasoned Rub

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.

Get the Recipe: Spicy Kale and Corn Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Black Rice Risotto

Black rice has the same antioxidants as blueberries. The grain is loaded with anthocyanin, the antioxidant responsible for the inky blue color of blueberries and acai, and it has a toasted nutty flavor — some even say it smells like freshly baked bread.

Get the Recipe: Black Rice Risotto

Grilled Chicken with Roasted Kale

Kale roasted with potatoes, tomatoes and Parmesan cheese pairs perfectly with simply grilled chicken.

Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken With Roasted Kale

Weeknight Two-Bean Chili

Rich with flavor, this vegetarian chili tastes like it's been simmering for hours. But thanks to canned beans and tomatoes, it's ready to hit the dinner table in 30 minutes. Serve with brown rice for added fiber.

Get the Recipe: Weeknight Two-Bean Chili

Chicken Pot-au-Feu

Pot-au-feu, which means "pot on the fire" in French, is an easy one-pot family meal. Though the traditional version uses beef, this recipe provides a healthful update by using chicken.

Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot-au-Feu

Middle Eastern-Style Chicken, Veggies and Rice

This one-dish meal is packed with flavor, and as easy as it is healthy. Rotisserie chicken, microwavable brown rice and pre-trimmed beans make this meal a cinch to prepare in less than 30 minutes. The bold spice blend and toasted nuts bring warm Moroccan flavor that'll make this dish memorable.

Get the Recipe: Middle Eastern-Style Chicken, Veggies and Rice

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.

Get the Recipe: Ribbony Shrimp and Pasta Scampi

Spicy Vegan Sloppy Joes

Mushrooms make these kicked-up sloppy joes ultra-meaty. But there's no meat here, making this vegan sandwich one of the lightest sloppy joes you'll probably every make.

Get the Recipe: Spicy Vegan Sloppy Joes

Homemade Frozen Chicken Fingers

Store-bought chicken fingers are often loaded with all kinds of can't-prounce ingredients. Stock your freezer with this homemade version instead — your kids will love them, but don't be surprised if they're a grownup favorite too.

Get the Recipe: Homemade Frozen Chicken Fingers

Baked Tilapia with Coconut-Cilantro Sauce

Tilapia is a mild-flavored white fish that absorbs the flavors of whatever you cook it with. In this exotic dish, the fish is flavored with creamy coconut milk, ginger and cilantro.

Get the Recipe: Baked Tilapia With Coconut-Cilantro Sauce

Whole-Wheat Spaghetti with Lemon, Basil and Salmon

Giada prefers whole-wheat spaghetti for its nutty flavor; she loads it up with fresh vegetables and fish flavored with lemon and herbs for a light, healthy meal.

Get the Recipe: Whole-Wheat Spaghetti with Lemon, Basil, and Salmon

Steak and Tabbouleh Salad

Steak can be part of a healthy diet but portion control is key. Instead of a plate-sized hunk of beef, enjoy strips of marinated sirloin atop veggies and whole grains for a perfectly well-balanced meal.

Get the Recipe: Steak and Tabbouleh Salad

Squash and Spinach Lasagna

This vegetarian main dish is packed with vegetables (butternut squash and spinach) and gets creamy goodness from part-skim mozzarella and low-fat milk.

Get the Recipe: Squash and Spinach Lasagna

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.

Get the Recipe: Mini Meatloaves

BLT Pasta Skillet

BLT ingredients and pasta, together at last! Bacon, tomato and escarole become the sauce for this cheesy baked dish that uses whole-wheat fusilli for added fiber.

Get the Recipe: BLT Pasta Skillet

Chicken and Rice Paprikash Casserole

The classic Hungarian dish becomes a one-dish dinner in this healthier take, which is made with skinless chicken breasts and brown rice. A dollop of reduced-fat sour cream goes on top.

Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice Paprikash Casserole

Roasted Rosemary Chicken with Potatoes

This simplest of chicken dinners pairs juicy bone-in chicken breasts with baby potatoes and a touch of chopped rosemary.

Get the Recipe: Roasted Rosemary Chicken with Potatoes

Pasta with Broccoli-Walnut Pesto

Superstar vegetable broccoli is the primary ingredient in this delicious pesto, which also gets a hit of heart-healthy fat from walnuts. Serve it over tricolor or whole-wheat fusilli.

Get the Recipe: Broccoli-Walnut Pesto With Pasta

Giada's Salmon Baked in Foil

Baking the salmon in foil allows it to fully soak up the lemon juice and flavor of the herbs without the need for added fats.

Get the Recipe: Salmon Baked in Foil

Roasted Chicken with Pumpkin Seed Salsa

Toasted pumpkin seeds mixed with cilantro and chiles become the Mexican-inspired salsa for a roasted chicken with a cumin-coriander rub.

Get the Recipe: Roasted Chicken with Pumpkin Seed Salsa

Frozen Fish Sticks

Thanks to whole-wheat breadcrumbs and a yogurt-based dipping sauce, these homemade fish sticks (made with tilapia) put a healthy spin on the freezer-aisle favorite.

Get the Recipe: Homemade Frozen Fish Sticks

Steak-Peppercorn Salad

This steak-and-salad combo offers the best of both worlds, with juicy pieces of meat and plenty of vegetables. A creamy peppercorn dressing brings it all together.

Get the Recipe: Steak-Peppercorn Salad

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. The finishing touches: Parmesan and fresh herbs.

Get the Recipe: Zucchini Ribbon Pasta

Ricotta-Spinach Tacos

Fill warm tortillas with a mix of nutrient-packed spinach, creamy ricotta cheese and green chiles for easy vegetarian tacos.

Get the Recipe: Ricotta-Spinach Tacos

Ellie's Peach Chicken

Cook fresh or frozen peaches in a garlicky ginger-soy sauce to make a sweet-savory topping for boneless, skinless chicken breasts.

Get the Recipe: Savory Peach Chicken

Skillet Pork and Peppers

This one-skillet meat-and-vegetable dinner includes sliced pork tenderloin and flavor-packed peppers and onion as the built-in side dish.

Get the Recipe: Skillet Pork and Peppers

Mini Skillet Meatloaves

These mini meatloaves are browned in a skillet instead of being baked. They cook up quickly and get a hot sweet-and-savory glaze.

Get the Recipe: Mini Skillet Meatloaves

Giada's Beef Stew

Giada uses Chianti, the classic Italian wine, to marinate beef brisket in this full-flavored stew. The meat is simmered until tender alongside carrots, potatoes and green beans.

Get the Recipe: Chianti Marinated Beef Stew

Sweet and Sour Couscous-Stuffed Peppers

Fill colorful (and antioxidant-rich) bell peppers with lean ground beef, whole-wheat couscous and a mix of vegetables and herbs for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Couscous-Stuffed Peppers

Bean-Kale Burgers with Sweet Potato Wedges

A step up from the typical veggie burger, this meatless main is prepared with mashed pinto beans and kale and then stacked on a whole-wheat English muffin with lettuce, tomato and onion. Fries are a must, of course — in this case, delicious sweet potato wedges. The healthy dessert: peaches in yogurt.

Get the Recipe: Bean-Kale Burgers with Sweet Potato Wedges

Steak Frites with Herb Mustard

Indulge your craving for this classic combination of beef and potatoes with this lightened-up version. The oven-baked fries will save significant calories, and a lean cut of flank steak, with excess fat trimmed away, will deliver a healthy dose of protein.

Get the Recipe: Steak Frites With Herb Mustard

Cheesy Meatloaf with Green Quinoa

Call it a healthier take on comfort food. The meatloaves are made with a mix of super-lean ground beef and turkey and are topped with tomatoes and cheese. On the side are garlicky spinach quinoa and juicy wedges of watermelon.

Get the Recipe: Cheesy Meatloaf with Green Quinoa

Pork and Cabbage with Wild Rice and Spiced Apples

The beauty of this dish is that you can roast the pork tenderloin and the red cabbage together on the same baking dish. On the side, serve antioxidant-rich wild rice.

Get the Recipe: Pork and Cabbage with Wild Rice and Spiced Apple

Slow-Cooker Mushroom Barley Risotto

This vegetarian main dish features pearl barley, cremini mushrooms and carrots heated in a slow-cooker until the barley is tender. On top: a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mushroom Barley Risotto

Marinated Flank Steak with Blue Cheese Sauce

At only 310 calories, this dinner proves that steak can be part of a sensible diet. Drizzle each piece with an easy blue cheese and buttermilk sauce and serve with grilled red onion and leaves of radicchio.

Get the Recipe: Marinated Flank Steak with Blue Cheese Sauce

Garden Vegetable Soup

Chock-full of green beans, tomatoes, carrots, potatoes and more, Alton's soup offers an easy way to please crowds and eat more vegetables.

Get the Recipe: Garden Vegetable Soup

Quinoa and Vegetable Stuffed Peppers

Red bell peppers make colorful shells for a fluffy quinoa and Rachael's chile, eggplant and zucchini stuffing. Serve the stuffed peppers topped with crumbled feta.

Get the Recipe: Quinoa and Vegetable Stuffed Peppers

Meatless Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy

Even vegetarians can now enjoy this classic comfort dish. Starring tofu and eggplants, this meatless meatloaf is as satisfying as the orginal. Finish it off with a rich mushroom gravy.

Get the Recipe: Meatless Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy

Pork Tenderloin with Corn Panzanella Salad and Yogurt with Mango

A lean cut of pork tenderloin alongside hearty panzanella creates a satisfying yet healthy weeknight dish. Try the pork with a refreshing side of mango-yogurt sauce (using low-fat yogurt will help to trim fat intake even more).

Get the Recipe: Pork Tenderloin with Corn Panzanella Salad and Yogurt with Mango

Whole-Grain, Bean and Turkey Cassoulet

This casserole is super-flavorful, thanks to the turkey kielbasa, and packed with fiber, at 15 grams per serving (more than half the suggested daily intake!). Leftovers can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Get the Recipe: Whole-Grain Bean and Turkey Cassoulet

Grilled Salmon and Pineapple with Avocado Dressing

Looking for a new way to serve grilled fish? Giada pairs tender salmon fillets with sweet grilled pineapple for a simple side. The tangy avocado dressing adds an element of creaminess.

Get the Recipe: Grilled Salmon and Pineapple with Avocado Dressing

Grits with Bacon and Beans

For a hearty yet healthy dinner with minimal prep work, try creamy grits over bell peppers, onions, collard greens and black-eyed peas. Using skim milk to prepare the grits will cut back on excess calories and fat.

Get the Recipe: Grits with Bacon and Beans

Tuna Avocado Open-Faced Sandwiches with Crunchy Slaw and Five-Spice Oranges

Satisfy your sandwich craving with this low-calorie option: toasted wheat bread topped with protein-packed tuna salad and creamy avocado slices. Try adding five-spice powder to the orange slices to complement their flavor and slightly alter it, making it warm and spicy.

Get the Recipe: Tuna Avocado Open-Faced Sandwiches with Crunchy Slaw and Five-Spice Oranges

Turkey with Ancho-Orange Sauce

Chicken broth, honey, mustard, orange juice and a splash of cream create a fragrant sauce for lean turkey cutlets. The citrus flavors pair perfectly with mashed sweet potatoes.

Get the Recipe: Turkey With Ancho-Orange Sauce

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.

Get the Recipe: Grilled Chipotle Pork Tacos with Red Slaw and Brown Sugar Pineapple

Whole-Grain Greek Meatloaf

This Mediterranean-inspired meatloaf uses spices and a toasted onion paste to add tons of flavor. And it's high in fiber, thanks to the bulgur-wheat kernels that have been parboiled, dried and cracked.

Get the Recipe: Whole-Grain Greek Meatloaf

Salmon with Lentils

This comforting bowl of Swiss chard-wrapped salmon and tender lentils is a comforting dinner indeed. It doesn't hurt that the dish also happens to be packed with protein and low in calories.

Get the Recipe: Salmon with Lentils

Pork Chops with Fennel and Caper Sauce

Delicate fennel and tangy capers flavor the sauce for Giada's easy pork chops. The key to getting that desirable sear is to let the oiled pan get hot before adding in the chops.

Get the Recipe: Pork Chops with Fennel and Caper Sauce

Salmon with Baby Artichokes

Garlic and crushed fennel seeds create an aromatic seasoning for these tender roasted salmon fillets. Round out the meal by serving the salmon with an elegant salad of artichokes and red onions.

Get the Recipe: Salmon With Baby Artichokes

Lentil Vegetable Soup

This rich and hearty soup is filled with vegetables and is one of Ina Garten's favorites. Add fresh thyme for lots of fresh flavor, then finish with olive oil and Parmesan cheese.

Get the Recipe: Lentil Vegetable Soup

Bobby's Vegetable Meatloaf With Balsamic Glaze

Bobby Flay's recipe has 300 fewer calories and 65 percent less fat than a serving of restaurant-style meatloaf. Panko breadcrumbs give the loaf a light, airy texture.

Get the Recipe: Vegetable Meatloaf with Balsamic Glaze

Creamy Lemon-Pepper Orzo with Grilled Chicken

If you love risotto but want something quicker, this simple orzo takes half the time. Rich cheese and cream are swapped with tangy Greek yogurt and goat cheese for equally satisfying creaminess. Sweet green peas and fragrant fresh tarragon and basil scream spring, though this dish is a year-round classic.

Get the Recipe: Creamy Lemon-Pepper Orzo with Grilled Chicken

Rigatoni with Chicken Thighs

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are tender and moist, making them the perfect pairing for Ree Drummond's easy marinara sauce. This pasta dinner will become a go-to family favorite.

Get the Recipe: Rigatoni with Chicken Thighs

Chicken with Mango Barbecue Sauce

Skip processed store-bought condiments that are loaded with sugar in favor of Ellie's homemade mango barbecue sauce. When pureeing the sauce in your blender, add in two or three jalapenos, depending on how much heat you like.

Get the Recipe: Chicken With Mango Barbeque Sauce

Creamy Lemon-Pepper Orzo with Chicken and Fig Salad

This comforting dish is full of protein and fiber. Sprinkle your plate with some crumbled goat cheese for added creaminess.

Get the Recipe: Creamy Lemon-Pepper Orzo with Chicken and Fig Salad

Slow-Cooker Brisket Sandwiches

Fire up the slow cooker and come home to a flavorful meal. Use the leftover brisket for steak salads later in the week.

Get the Recipe: Slow-Cooker Brisket Sandwiches

Sirloin with Teriyaki Broth

Make broth with a few richly flavored ingredients that tastes like it has simmered for hours: oyster sauce, teriyaki sauce, fresh ginger and brown sugar. Simmer vegetables in the broth, then serve with thinly sliced grilled sirloin.

Get the Recipe: Sirloin With Teriyaki Broth

Roasted Zucchini Flatbread with Hummus, Arugula and Goat Cheese

This pizza-like meatless meal comes together easily using store-bought pita and hummus, plus oven-roasted zucchini, lemon and goat cheese.

Get the Recipe: Roasted Zucchini Flatbread with Hummus, Arugula, Goat Cheese, and Almonds

Salmon Hash

Swap fatty breakfast meats for better-for-you salmon in this potato and veggie hash. It's equally good morning or night.

Get the Recipe: Salmon Hash

Detox Soup

Giada's light soup packed with chicken, spinach and herbs nourishes from the inside-out.

Get the Recipe: Detox Soup

Lentil and Orzo Salad with Roasted Cauliflower, Chard and Herbs

Eddie Jackson's orzo pasta salad is a celebration of color and texture, including roasted cauliflower, earthy red chard, sweet cherry tomatoes, briny green olives, bright citrus and a trio of fresh herbs.

Get the Recipe: Lentil and Orzo Salad with Roasted Cauliflower, Chard and Herbs

Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta with Green Peas, Snap Peas and Spinach

Chef, personal trainer and former NFL player Eddie Jackson shares his recipe for a light and lemony chicken pasta dish that's packed with fresh green veggies and herbs.

Get the Recipe: Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta with Green Peas, Snap Peas and Spinach

Herb-Roasted Chicken with Root Vegetables

Chef and personal trainer Eddie Jackson's roast chicken with vegetables is healthy and hearty, and makes fanastic leftovers that can be used in so many ways.

Get the Recipe: Herb-Roasted Chicken with Root Vegetables

Berbere-Roasted Hake with Cool Bean Salad

Chef and trainer Eddie Jackson's light and satisfying fish dish packs a double punch of protein with lean hake and beans. Using cooked, canned beans helps the dish come together in just 30 minutes.

Get the Recipe: Berbere-Roasted Hake with Cool Bean Salad

Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa

Bright pineapple salsa flavored with ginger and Chinese five-spice powder takes this weeknight pork chop dinner out of the ordinary.

Get the Recipe: Pork Chops With Pineapple Salsa

Sesame-Lemon Chicken

With a rub made from sesame seeds and lemon zest, chicken thighs become the centerpiece of this healthy main dish, which includes a simple lettuce and tomato salad.

Get the Recipe: Sesame-Lemon Chicken

Apple-Honey Drumsticks

Enjoy these drumsticks with their zesty-sweet sauce at little more than 300 calories per pair. Bonus: Drumsticks are one of the least expensive parts of the chicken, so this recipe is as friendly to your wallet as it is your waistline.

Get the Recipe: Apple-Honey Drumsticks

Mexican Chicken Stew

Leftover rotisserie chicken makes this delicious stew a quick-fix meal.

Get the Recipe: Mexican Chicken Stew

Broccoli-Cheddar Pockets

Toss chopped broccoli florets with cheddar, sour cream and chives to make a tasty and nutritious filling for savory dinnertime turnovers that bake in just 15 minutes.

Get the Recipe: Broccoli-Cheddar Pockets

Risotto with Bacon and Kale

Giada turns warm, creamy risotto into a well-rounded dinner by adding diced chicken, roasted carrot and parsnip, kale and just a touch of flavorful bacon.

Get the Recipe: Risotto with Bacon and Kale

Healthy Every Week

Healthy Weeknight Dinners

Related To:

Oven-Baked Salmon

Lemon-Garlic Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp, Watercress and Farro Salad

Alton's Lentil Soup

Fettuccine with Walnuts and Parsley

Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

Roman-Style Chicken

40 Cloves and a Chicken

Eat-Your-Veggies Mediterranean Meatballs

Cauliflower Gnocchi

Healthy Chipotle Beer-and-Butter Shrimp Foil Pack

Eat-Your-Veggies Italian Meatballs

Teriyaki Hens with Bok Choy

Healthy BBQ Salmon Sheet Pan Dinner

Zucchini Enchiladas

Herb-Marinated Pork Tenderloins

Eat-Your-Veggies Pork Scallion Meatballs

Slow-Cooker Chicken Chili

Coconut-Crusted Shrimp with Pineapple-Chili Sauce

Fettuccine with Creamy Red Pepper Sauce

Buddha Bowl

Coconut Shrimp with Tropical Rice

Pork Chops with Apples and Garlic-Smashed Potatoes

Shrimp Gumbo

Honey Mustard and Red Onion Barbecued Chicken

Slimmed-Down Chicken Pot Pie

Asian Chicken Noodle Soup

Shrimp Stir-Fry

Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas

Roasted Salmon Tacos

My Big Fat Greek Burgers

Pan-Seared Salmon with Kale and Apple Salad

Ellie's Buffalo Chicken Salad

Linguine with Chicken Ragu

Asian Turkey Burgers

Chicken Divan

Lighter Spaghetti and Meatballs

Slow-Cooker Pork Tacos

Lighter Shrimp Scampi

Three-Bean and Beef Chili

Surf and Turf Paella

Grilled Steak With Green Beans, Tomatoes and Chimichurri Sauce

Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe Pesto

Broiled Tilapia and Eggplant with Moroccan Pesto

Turkey Meatloaf with Feta and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Garlic-Ginger Chicken Thighs

Honey-Soy Grilled Salmon with Edamame

Oven-Fried Chicken

French Three-Onion Soup

Broiled Halibut with Ricotta-Pea Puree

Curried Chicken and Rice Soup

Hearty Italian Chicken and Vegetable Soup

Mushroom-Caraway Soup

Whole-Wheat Spinach Mac 'n' Cheese with Broiled Tomatoes

Chicken and Dumplings

Orange Chicken Fingers

Roasted Salmon With Shallot Grapefruit Sauce

Bobby's Baked Tilapia

Vegetable Frittata

Chicken Fingers with Curried Ketchup

Grilled Marinated Leg of Lamb with Asparagus and Mint Chimichurri

Spaghetti or Not

Spring Chicken Salad

Tilapia Masala with Rice

Pork Tenderloin with Seasoned Rub

Spicy Kale and Corn Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Black Rice Risotto

Grilled Chicken with Roasted Kale

Weeknight Two-Bean Chili

Chicken Pot-au-Feu

Middle Eastern-Style Chicken, Veggies and Rice

Ribbony Shrimp and Pasta Scampi

Spicy Vegan Sloppy Joes

Homemade Frozen Chicken Fingers

Baked Tilapia with Coconut-Cilantro Sauce

Whole-Wheat Spaghetti with Lemon, Basil and Salmon

Steak and Tabbouleh Salad