2-Week Meal Plan: Vegetarian Dinners Under 300 Calories
If you're playing around with the idea of going vegetarian. but are at a loss for what to make, here's a 14-day dinner plan — all recipes are vegetarian and around 300 calories. And since these meat-free meals are chock-full of fiber, you'll feel full longer, which is one way to prevent weight gain from late-night snacking. Take a peek at these 14 recipes, and make a list so you can hit the grocery store on Sunday, prep your ingredients, and be ready to lose weight! Keep in mind that because these meals are lighter, you should plan on eating most of your daily calories during breakfast and lunch.
Monday: Indian-Spiced Chard With Tofu
This Indian-spiced chard makes a great main dish with the warming flavor of curry. Serve alongside toasted whole wheat pita, a small bowl of cooked brown rice, or roasted cauliflower.
Calories: 222
Fiber: 5.3 grams
Protein: 7.3 grams
Tuesday: Spicy Sweet Potato Salad
High-fiber sweet potatoes can regulate blood sugar and help you lose weight, while a spicy, antioxidant-rich red pepper and jalapeño dressing ties everything together. This hearty dish is sure to satisfy.
Calories: 270
Fiber: 4.8 grams
Protein: 2.1 grams
Wednesday: Red Pepper and Lentil Bake
You'll be surprised at how large an under-250-calorie portion of this cheesy red pepper and lentil bake really is. Enjoy your bowl with a fresh green salad.
Calories: 233
Fiber: 9 grams
Protein: 11.6 grams
Thursday: Roasted Sweet Potato and Black Bean Burrito
Roasted sweet potatoes swirling with tender black beans and corn, succulent red peppers, and juicy tomatoes wrapped in a warm whole-wheat tortilla make this one delicious and gratifying meal. Pair it with a side of sautéed spinach or kale.
Calories: 236 (half a burrito; save the other for tomorrow's lunch!)
Fiber: 6.8 grams
Protein: 6.9 grams
Friday: Spaghetti Squash Mac and Cheese
Lighten things up with this healthy twist on mac and cheese that amps up the nutritional value as it cuts back on calories and carbs.
Calories: 296
Fiber: 1.3 grams
Protein: 18.2 grams
Saturday: Cauliflower Crust Pizza
If Saturday is pizza night at your house, try this veggie-powered alternative. Freshly grated cauliflower serves as the base for the creative and delicious crust that you can fold up just like traditional pizza!
Calories: 272
Fiber: 4.6 grams
Protein: 23.6 grams
Sunday: Butternut Squash Lentil Soup
This high-protein, high-fiber soup recipe is such a cinch to whip up — just throw all the ingredients in your slow cooker in the morning, and dinner is done. Since the lentils and squash get cooked for so long, they soften completely to reveal a smooth, creamy consistency. Enjoy your bowl with a few whole grain crackers.
Calories: 253
Fiber: 17 grams
Protein: 18.3 grams
Monday: Gluten-Free Cheesy Veggie "Pasta" Bake
If you can't have gluten, you can still enjoy this cheesy pasta dish. It's not made with gluten-free pasta — oh no! It's made with spaghetti squash and tons of other mouthwatering veggies. Add a green salad for a satisfying meal.
Calories: 208
Fiber: 5.2 grams
Protein: 9.7 grams
Tuesday: Black and White Bean Soup With Sweet Potatoes
This black and white bean soup with sweet potatoes is a twist on the classic black bean soup recipe.
Calories: 288
Fiber: 11.3 grams
Protein: 12.3 grams
Wednesday: Cauliflower "Rice" Stir-Fry
Beyond being a Paleo-friendly offering, this grain-free stir-fry has zero cholesterol, is low in sodium, and offers your entire daily recommended intake of vitamin A and vitamin C in just one meal.
Calories: 278
Fiber: 8.3 grams
Protein: 8.3 grams
Thursday: Polenta and Beans
This spin on the basic burrito is completely gluten-free. Instead of being wrapped in a flour tortilla, the flavorful beans and veggie mixture is served over sautéed polenta.
Calories: 284
Fiber: 10.4 grams
Protein: 11.1 grams
Friday: Spaghetti With Spinach in a White Wine Garlic Sauce
Fresh produce and a fragrant white wine and garlic sauce keep this vegan recipe low in calories but rich in flavor and nutrients like vitamins A and C. Top your dish with some slices of baked tofu.
Calories: 228
Fiber: 3.4 grams
Protein: 6.8 grams
Saturday: Sweet Potato, Chickpea, and Quinoa Veggie Burger
Completely vegan and easier to make than you think, this chickpea and quinoa veggie burger is flavored with baked sweet potato, cumin, and fresh parsley.
Calories: 312 (202 for the patty and roasted red pepper) plus a 110-calorie whole wheat bun
Fiber: 8.8 grams
Protein: 12 grams
Sunday: Vegan Split Pea and Sweet Potato Soup
Savory, smooth, and hearty, traditional split pea soup is made with ham hocks to give it that signature salty flavor. But you can easily omit the meat and make the soup with celery and sweet potatoes for a delicious vegan twist. Enjoy your steamy bowl with a handful of your favorite whole grain crackers.
Calories: 254
Fiber: 15.5 grams
Protein: 19.3 grams