25 Low-Calorie Dinner Recipes to Help Fight Inflammation

Reviewed by Dietitian Madeline Peck, RDN, CDN
Credit: Photographer: Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer.
Credit: Photographer: Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer.

Chronic inflammation can lead to some unfortunate side effects, from low energy levels, a weaker immune system and even digestive troubles. Luckily, you’ll find that these dinner recipes are packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients like fish, legumes and leafy greens that help you feel your best. Each dish is also lower in calories, yet still satisfying and filling. Try flavorful options like our Creamy Spinach & Artichoke Dip–Butter Bean Skillet and our Sheet-Pan Balsamic Salmon & Asparagus for a nourishing meal that will keep inflammation at bay.

01 of 25

Creamy Spinach & Artichoke Dip Butter Bean Skillet

Credit: Photographer: Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer.
Credit: Photographer: Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer.

This hearty, one-skillet meal reimagines the flavors of classic spinach-artichoke dip in a weeknight-friendly dinner. Creamy butter beans provide plant-based fiber and protein, while artichokes and fresh spinach add brightness and texture.

View Recipe

02 of 25

Veggie Enchilada Soup

Credit: Photographer: Alex Huang.
Credit: Photographer: Alex Huang.

This hearty vegetarian enchilada soup channels all the flavors of enchiladas into a cozy, one-pot meal. Sweet potatoes and bell pepper add natural sweetness, while warm spices and a touch of cream cheese give it depth and richness. Serve with your favorite toppings to make it your own.

View Recipe

03 of 25

Sheet-Pan Balsamic Salmon & Asparagus

Credit: Photographer: Ali Redmond.
Credit: Photographer: Ali Redmond.

This Sheet-Pan Balsamic Salmon & Asparagus is an easy, flavor-packed dinner that comes together quickly. Salmon, asparagus and red onion roast in a savory balsamic-soy glaze with garlic and Dijon for a perfect balance of tangy and rich. Finish with a squeeze of lemon for a bright, fresh touch.

View Recipe

04 of 25

Swamp Soup

Credit: Photographer: Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer.
Credit: Photographer: Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer.

This swamp soup, named for its vibrant green color, is made from a combination of spinach and parsley blended into a silky base, with fiber-rich white beans, shredded chicken and brown rice stirred in for a satisfying texture. A sprinkle of fried garlic and crushed red pepper adds savory crunch and gentle heat to each spoonful.

View Recipe

05 of 25

One-Pot High-Protein Chicken, Cabbage & White Bean Soup

Credit: Photographer: Stacy K. Allen, Prop Stylist: Keoshia McGhee, Food Stylist: Amanda Holstein.
Credit: Photographer: Stacy K. Allen, Prop Stylist: Keoshia McGhee, Food Stylist: Amanda Holstein.

This one-pot chicken, cabbage and white bean soup is the kind of meal you’ll want on repeat. A splash of lemon keeps the broth bright, and a dollop of basil pesto stirred in at the end adds rich, herby flavor that makes the soup taste special. Easy enough for weeknights and even better as leftovers, this soup proves that simple ingredients can still be delicious.

View Recipe

06 of 25

Marry Me White Bean Soup with Kale

Credit: Photographer: Morgan Hunt Ward, Prop Stylist: Priscilla Montiel, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer.
Credit: Photographer: Morgan Hunt Ward, Prop Stylist: Priscilla Montiel, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer.

This creamy, flavor-packed white bean and kale soup, inspired by Marry Me Chicken, comes together quickly for a cozy weeknight meal. Sun-dried tomatoes plus the oil from the jar infuse the base with rich, savory depth, while fresh basil and Parmesan cheese add a bright and satisfying finish.

View Recipe

07 of 25

Garlic Butter-Roasted Salmon with Beets & Broccoli

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle.
Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle.

This is the No. 1 anti-inflammatory dinner to make tonight! Packed with omega-3-rich salmon, antioxidant-loaded beets and cruciferous broccoli, this sheet-pan meal fights inflammation while filling you up. Every bite is vibrant, nourishing and deeply satisfying—it’s a power-packed dinner that proves anti-inflammatory eating can be downright delicious.

View Recipe

08 of 25

High-Protein Butternut Squash & Lentil Soup

Credit: Photographer: Morgan Hunt Ward, Prop Stylist: Priscilla Montiel, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer.
Credit: Photographer: Morgan Hunt Ward, Prop Stylist: Priscilla Montiel, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer.

This hearty, plant-based soup is packed with protein from lentils and gets cozy flavors from warming spices like cinnamon, cumin and coriander. A swirl of tangy Greek-style yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh parsley finish each bowl with brightness and creaminess. Serve with lemon wedges for an extra pop of flavor.

View Recipe

09 of 25

Lemony Orzo & Tuna Salad with Broccoli

Credit: Leigh Beisch
Credit: Leigh Beisch

This pasta-salad and tuna-salad mashup gets a boost of color and texture from broccoli. Plenty of Kalamata olives add a briny bite. Be sure to monitor the pasta-cooking carefully, as orzo can go from al dente to mush in a minute. If in doubt, drain it a little early—it’ll soften further in the lemon dressing.

View Recipe

10 of 25

Kale & Sweet Potato Salad with Chicken

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hausser.
Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hausser.

This kale and sweet potato salad is a fresh lunch idea. Roasted sweet potatoes, massaged kale and a creamy tahini dressing set the stage for a mix of feta, golden raisins and crunchy almonds.

View Recipe

11 of 25

Thai Sweet Chili Salmon Bowls

Credit: Food: Sammy Mila, Photos: Jason Donnelly, Props: Breanna Ghazali
Credit: Food: Sammy Mila, Photos: Jason Donnelly, Props: Breanna Ghazali

These Thai sweet chili salmon bowls are a flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for two. For best results, use 1-inch-thick salmon pieces—thicker cuts may not cook fast enough, and the glaze can burn under the broiler. The salmon is served over fluffy rice with crisp coleslaw for crunch and balance. It’s a colorful bowl that hits all the sweet, spicy and savory notes.

View Recipe

12 of 25

Garlicky White Bean & Kale Stew with Lemon

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hausser.
Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hausser.

This lemony kale and white bean stew offers bright, hearty,and comforting flavors all in one pot. Tender carrots, onion and lacinato kale simmer with creamy cannellini beans, some of which are mashed to thicken the broth. A sprinkle of Parmesan and parsley adds a fresh zesty finish. Serve with crusty bread on the side for a nourishing bowl that feels just right for chilly nights.

View Recipe

13 of 25

Chicken Fajita Rice Bake

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hausser.
Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hausser.

This cheesy Chicken Fajita Rice Bake checks every box: bold flavor, hearty protein, plenty of veggies and minimal cleanup. Juicy chicken thighs mingle with a pantry-friendly mix of beans, tomatoes with green chiles and quick-cooking brown rice. A generous layer of melty cheese ties it all together. It’s a weeknight-friendly recipe that also doubles as a crowd-pleaser—you’ll want to keep this one on repeat.

View Recipe

14 of 25

Easy White Bean Skillet

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hausser.
Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hausser.

This simple white bean skillet brings together pantry staples and fresh greens for a comforting plant-based meal. Sweet onion, tomatoes and garlic form a rich, savory base for creamy white beans. A handful of spinach adds freshness and color, and a sprinkle of Parmesan ties everything together with salty richness. Served alongside toasted whole-wheat baguette slices for dipping, it’s a fast, satisfying dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a simple weekend supper.

View Recipe

15 of 25

Maple-Miso Chicken Thighs, Brussels Sprouts & Spaghetti Squash

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hausser.
Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hausser.

This sheet-pan dinner brings together a trio of cold-weather favorites. Roasted spaghetti squash gets tossed with a maple-miso glaze that clings to each strand, creating a noodle-like base that’s topped with juicy chicken thighs and caramelized Brussels sprouts that are roasted alongside. Easy enough for a weeknight yet special enough for company, this sheet-pan wonder delivers cozy comfort with a fall, veggie-forward feel.

View Recipe

16 of 25

Lemon-Turmeric Cabbage & White Bean Soup

Credit: Photographer: Ali Redmond.
Credit: Photographer: Ali Redmond.

This cozy soup turns humble ingredients into a bowl of golden comfort. Tender cabbage and creamy cannellini beans simmer together with aromatic spices for warmth and depth, while a splash of lemon juice at the end brightens every spoonful. It’s light yet satisfying, full of fiber and antioxidants, and easy enough for a weeknight.

View Recipe

17 of 25

Baked Lemon-Pepper Salmon

Credit: Photographer: Morgan Hunt Ward, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hauser, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall.
Credit: Photographer: Morgan Hunt Ward, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hauser, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall.

This lemon-pepper salmon is a bright, no-fuss recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Baking the salmon on a bed of fresh lemon slices infuses it with citrusy flavor while keeping the fillets moist and tender. A simple seasoning of lemon-pepper, garlic and salt delivers bold taste with minimal effort. Pair it with roasted vegetables, a crisp salad or fluffy brown rice for a complete meal.

View Recipe

18 of 25

Spanakopita-Inspired Skillet Beans

Credit: Photographer: Brittney Cottrell, Food stylist: Isabelle Easter, Prop Stylist: Keoshia McGhee
Credit: Photographer: Brittney Cottrell, Food stylist: Isabelle Easter, Prop Stylist: Keoshia McGhee

Creamy, herbaceous and comforting, these skillet beans draw inspiration from spanakopita, the Greek spinach pie. Cannellini beans add plant-based protein and fiber to make this dinner filling while fresh dill, parsley and a squeeze of lemon provide brightness. Serve it straight from the skillet with multigrain pita chips for dipping.

View Recipe

19 of 25

20-Minute Chickpea Soup

Credit: Photographer: Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Craig Huff, Prop Stylist: Abby Armstrong.
Credit: Photographer: Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Craig Huff, Prop Stylist: Abby Armstrong.

When dinner needs to happen fast, turn to this creamy chickpea soup that’s pulled together in just 20 minutes. Cream cheese melts right into this zesty soup for a velvety texture that feels cozy and comforting. Garnished with cilantro and crunchy tortilla strips, it’s a one-pot meal that’s weeknight-friendly and crowd-pleasing.

View Recipe

20 of 25

Sheet-Pan Salmon with Broccoli

Credit: Ali Redmond
Credit: Ali Redmond

Fresh, fast and full of flavor, this sheet-pan salmon with broccoli is a healthy weeknight winner. Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and support heart health. A zesty mix of lemon, garlic and olive oil brings brightness to both the tender salmon and the roasted broccoli. Everything roasts together quickly, so cleanup is minimal and dinner is on the table in no time.

View Recipe

21 of 25

Butternut Squash & Black Bean Enchilada Skillet

Credit: Photographer Victor Protasio, Food Stylist Margaret Dickey, Prop Stylist Josh Hoggle.
Credit: Photographer Victor Protasio, Food Stylist Margaret Dickey, Prop Stylist Josh Hoggle.

This Butternut Squash & Black Bean Enchilada Skillet is a delicious, one-pan meal that’s packed with flavor. Tender cubes of butternut squash and hearty black beans are simmered in green enchilada sauce, with tortilla strips stirred in. As it cooks, the tortillas soak up the sauce. A layer of melted cheese ties everything together. It’s a satisfying, vegetarian-friendly dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.

View Recipe

22 of 25

Broccoli-Cheddar Butter Beans

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Hannah Greenwood.
Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Hannah Greenwood.

These Broccoli-Cheddar Butter Beans are a cozy dish that will remind you of broccoli-cheddar soup, but in a convenient skillet. Tender butter beans add creaminess and plant-based protein, making the dish filling enough for a main course. Broccoli florets bring color, while sharp cheddar cheese melts in for that classic flavor. Everything comes together in one pan, creating a thick texture that’s perfect for scooping up with crusty bread.

View Recipe

23 of 25

Spaghetti Squash Caprese

Credit: Photographer: Morgan Hunt Ward, Prop Stylist: Pheobe Hausser, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf.
Credit: Photographer: Morgan Hunt Ward, Prop Stylist: Pheobe Hausser, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf.

This Spaghetti Squash Caprese is a fun twist on the classic Italian salad, combining traditional caprese salad ingredients with tender strands of roasted spaghetti squash. The squash is tossed with juicy plum tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant fresh basil and great northern beans for a boost of plant-based protein. A drizzle of balsamic glaze ties the dish together with a sweet-tangy finish.

View Recipe

24 of 25

Maple-Mustard Salmon with Veggies

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Hannah Greenwood.
Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Hannah Greenwood.

This maple-mustard salmon is a flavorful, no-fuss dinner that comes together on a single sheet pan. The salmon is coated in a sweet and tangy maple-mustard glaze that caramelizes beautifully as it broils. Surrounding the tender fish is a mix of seasonal vegetables, including broccoli and potatoes, that roast to perfection.

View Recipe

25 of 25

Chicken Guacamole Bowls

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless.
Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless.

These Chicken Guacamole Bowls are a simple, flavor-packed meal where juicy chicken thighs and colorful veggies roast together on a single sheet pan for easy prep and cleanup.The chicken and veggies are served over a fresh and creamy guacamole with a sprinkle of tangy cotija cheese. A squeeze of lime at the end brightens up the dish and ties all the bold, fresh flavors together.

View Recipe

Original Source:

https://www.eatingwell.com/low-calorie-dinner-recipes-to-help-fight-inflammation-11920935