Low-calorie vegetarian meals
These well-balanced, meat-free recipes are all under 500 calories per portion. From orzo risotto and lasagne, to aubergine chilli and veggie burgers, you're sure to find something you'll love
Looking for low-calorie vegetarian meals? Check out our ideas below, then discover our favourite vegetarian slow-cooker recipes, low-carb vegetarian recipes, healthy vegan recipes, dairy-free dinner recipes and healthy vegetarian recipes.
It is important when following a vegetarian diet that you keep an eye on calories, as it can be very easy to overdo the dairy products such as cheese. These low calorie vegetarian meals are perfectly balanced, with lots of vegetables, beans, whole grains and some dairy which mean you can still enjoy a vegetarian meal knowing that you're getting the most out of your meals without the extra calories.
Low-calorie vegetarian meals
Coronation tofu salad
This vegan take on coronation salad replaces the chicken with smoked tofu. With a fragrant dressing made from madras curry powder and sweet mango chutney.
Gazpacho sauce spaghetti
Ready in just 15 minutes this simple vegan pasta recipe is tossed in a smooth yet fiery gazpacho sauce.
Aubergine chilli
Charred aubergine gives this vegan chilli a delicious, smoky depth, making it a great family midweek meat alternative.
Sunblush tomato and olive vegan paella
Filled with rich Mediterranean morsels, this plant-based paella has bags of flavour and will impress the whole family.
Pea risotto
Simple, bright and packed with plenty of fresh and zesty flavours, this meat-free risotto is welcoming at any time of year.
Gigantes plaki (Greek baked beans)
Ready in under an hour, this Greek one-pot is packed with fresh flavours, as well as protein and fibre. A healthy vegetarian meal with under 300 calories per serving.
Shakshuka
A classic brunch dish, shakshuka is made by simmering spices, pepper, tomatoes and eggs together a pan.
Orzo risotto with cavolo nero, peas and chilli
Make our creamy orzo risotto with cavolo nero, peas and chilli for a warming midweek meal.
Vegetarian lasagne
Try our vegetarian alternative to this classic family dish. With layers of greens and fresh pesto, its' a great midweek meal.
Cumin tofu stir-fry
This speedy tofu stir fry is low in calories but doesn’t compromise on flavour, brilliant for a nourishing midweek dinner.
Vegan sushi bowls
This vegan sushi bowl is low in calories yet full of comforting, zingy flavours – proving that healthy can be satisfying, too.
Homemade veggie burgers
Turn simple veg into satisfying, yet healthy, burgers and enjoy for dinner tonights.
Avocado fusilli pasta
Avocados make a super-creamy pasta sauce. It’s a great way of using up any which are overly ripe and adds more healthy fats to your meal.
Roasted veg and feta grain salad
This rustic salad makes a great lunch and will keep you feeling full all afternoon, thanks to the hearty grains.
Red pepper soup
A vibrant and antioxidant-rich red soup recipe, perfect for sunny days. You'll need plenty of red pepper, garlic and dried chilli flakes for this one.
Mushroom stroganoff
Swap beef for porcini and flat mushrooms to create a rich vegetarian version that doesn't compromise on flavour.
Vegetarian shepherd's pie
This meat-free recipe for lentil shepherd's pie is a great vegan take on a classic. It's packed with protein and fibre, too.
Vegetarian mushroom chilli
Try our healthy twist on a family classic, chilli con carne but this time with mushrooms. Top with limey sour cream for a delicious, satisfying meal.
Vegetarian lentil bolognese
This Puy lentil bolognese is a great vegetarian alternative for when you don't want to use a meat substitute but still want a substantial meal. Plus, it's easy to make and healthy.
Chickpea fritters with yogurt, green chilli and cucumber salad
Turn chickpeas into these lightly-spiced fritters and serve with a zesty cucumber salad for a quick, low-calorie lunch.
Veggie spelt broth with giant croutons
Make our nourishing vegetarian broth, packed with nutritious veg such as celery and cauliflower. Top with homemade sourdough croutons for added crunch.
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