Tired of dinners that leave you hungry an hour later? These 19 light meals are easy to make and still filling enough to keep everyone satisfied. They’re perfect for busy nights when you want something that tastes good but doesn’t feel too heavy. Each one is packed with simple ingredients and flavor, without the extra fuss.
Pesto Salmon. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.
Tomato Basil Bisque
This creamy tomato basil bisque is the perfect light dinner when you want something comforting but not too filling. Fresh basil and ripe tomatoes come together to create a rich, flavorful soup that leaves you satisfied. Try this easy recipe tonight and enjoy a meal that’s both comforting and light.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Basil Bisque
Kung Pao Chicken Salad
Kung Pao chicken salad is a great choice for a light meal with bold flavors. The combination of juicy chicken, crunchy veggies, and tangy dressing keeps it fresh and satisfying without being too heavy. Make this quick and tasty dish for your next meal and enjoy a fresh, flavorful dinner without the extra weight.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken Salad
Tomato Quinoa Salad
This tomato quinoa salad is the kind of light meal that fills you up without weighing you down. The quinoa adds a fluffy texture, while the fresh veggies bring a burst of flavor that won’t leave you hungry an hour later. Whip this up for a filling meal that’s light yet satisfying, and perfect for any time of day.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Quinoa Salad
Chicken and Rice Soup
Chicken and rice soup is comforting yet light enough to enjoy without feeling too full. The tender chicken, fluffy rice, and flavorful broth make for a filling meal that’s perfect for any night. Make this simple and satisfying soup for dinner, and enjoy a meal that’s both hearty and light.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice Soup
Pesto Salmon
Pesto salmon offers a light yet flavorful dinner option that’s quick to prepare. The fresh pesto brings a savory flavor to the tender salmon, making this dish both satisfying and easy to enjoy. Make this quick and delicious meal tonight, and treat yourself to a light yet flavorful dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Salmon
Tuna and Tomato Pasta
Tuna and tomato pasta is a quick, satisfying dish that won’t leave you feeling stuffed. The ripe tomatoes and tender tuna create a light yet hearty meal that’s perfect for busy nights. Add this dish to your dinner plans for an easy, satisfying meal that’s both quick and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Tuna and Tomato Pasta
Instant Pot Lentil Soup
This Instant Pot lentil soup is hearty without being too heavy, making it the ideal light dinner. The lentils provide a filling texture, while the rich flavors come together to create a satisfying meal. Keep this recipe on hand for a quick, easy meal that’s both filling and light.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Lentil Soup
Tomato Soup
This tomato soup is light yet full of comforting flavor, making it a great choice for a quick meal. The rich tomatoes offer a satisfying taste, while still keeping things simple and light. Pair this easy-to-make soup with some crusty bread for a meal that’s quick, satisfying, and light.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Soup
Tomato Lime Chicken
Tomato lime chicken is a flavorful, light meal that works well in tacos, rice bowls, or salads. The fresh lime and tomato create a delicious combo that satisfies without feeling too full. Make this quick and versatile recipe for dinner tonight, and enjoy a light meal that’s full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Lime Chicken
Cacio e Pepe
Cacio e pepe is a simple yet satisfying pasta dish that proves how light meals can still pack a punch of flavor. The cheese and pepper make the dish comforting, but it’s not too heavy to enjoy. Try this easy recipe for a light and flavorful meal that’s sure to satisfy without leaving you feeling stuffed.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe
Spinach and Parmesan Quinoa
Spinach and Parmesan quinoa is a light, nutritious meal that’s filling without being too much. The savory Parmesan and tender spinach add flavor to the fluffy quinoa, creating a perfect main or side. Make this simple and satisfying dish tonight, and enjoy a light, healthy meal that’s full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Parmesan Quinoa
Pesto Tuna Salad with Sundried Tomatoes
Pesto tuna salad with sundried tomatoes is a fresh and light meal bursting with bold flavors. The pesto and sundried tomatoes take the tuna to the next level, making it a satisfying meal that won’t leave you craving more. Try this quick and flavorful recipe for your next meal and enjoy a light dish that’s full of taste.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Tuna Salad with Sundried Tomatoes
Mexican Skillet Quinoa
Mexican skillet quinoa is a one-pan meal that’s light yet filling, with a perfect balance of beans, corn, and salsa. This protein-packed dish is bursting with flavor while staying light enough for a satisfying meal. Make this easy, flavorful dish tonight for a simple, light dinner that’s full of bold flavors.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Skillet Quinoa
Simple Salmon Patties
These simple salmon patties are a quick, protein-packed meal that’s light and satisfying. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they’re perfect for busy nights when you need something tasty but not too heavy. Try these crispy salmon patties for dinner tonight and enjoy a satisfying, light meal in no time.
Get the Recipe: Simple Salmon Patties
Shortcut Chicken Salad
Shortcut chicken salad is a go-to recipe when you need a quick and light meal that still packs a punch of flavor. Made with pantry staples and fresh ingredients, it’s ready in minutes for a meal that’s refreshing and filling. Whip up this easy dish for a meal that’s both light and satisfying, perfect for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Shortcut Chicken Salad
Miso Glazed Salmon
Miso-glazed salmon is a light, flavorful option that’s easy to make and perfect for dinner. The rich miso glaze enhances the tender salmon, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. Make this quick and healthy salmon recipe for your next dinner and enjoy a flavorful meal that won’t leave you feeling stuffed.
Get the Recipe: Miso Glazed Salmon
Soy Ginger Salmon
Soy ginger salmon is a quick and light meal that’s full of bold flavors. The soy and ginger glaze infuses the salmon, creating a savory dish that’s satisfying without being too heavy. Try this simple, tasty salmon recipe for dinner tonight and enjoy a light, flavorful meal that’s easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Soy Ginger Salmon
Asian Glazed Salmon
Asian glazed salmon is a light yet flavorful dish that’s both savory and satisfying. The sweet and savory glaze pairs perfectly with the tender salmon, creating a simple meal that’s easy to make and full of taste. Try this delicious recipe tonight for a light, healthy dinner that’s quick and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Asian Glazed Salmon
Carrot Ginger Soup
Carrot ginger soup is a light, satisfying option for when you want something flavorful but not too filling. The sweet carrots and spicy ginger blend perfectly, making for a comforting yet light meal. Make this quick and easy soup for a filling, light meal that’s full of flavor and easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Ginger Soup