Looking for meals that keep things lighter without losing flavor? This list is packed with low-fat recipes that still feel satisfying—no heavy sauces or greasy add-ons needed. Whether you’re roasting, grilling, air frying, or layering up fresh salads, these dishes offer smart ways to eat well without overdoing it.
From air-fried buffalo chicken and citrusy shrimp salad to veggie-packed bowls and fresh herb dressings, these recipes focus on lean proteins, crisp vegetables, and bold flavors. Many skip cream and butter altogether, while others use lighter swaps like yogurt or olive oil in small amounts.
They’re perfect for weeknights when you want something filling but not heavy, and they work well for meal prep, lunchboxes, or crowd-pleasing appetizers. Scroll through to find your new go-to—these low-fat options prove you don’t have to sacrifice taste to keep things light.
Hot Honey Roasted Carrots
Roasted carrots get a sweet and spicy upgrade with a drizzle of hot honey. It’s a simple side dish with bold flavor that pairs well with roasted meats or grilled mains.
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Roasted Carrots
Lemon Chicken & Rice Casserole
A hearty casserole that combines juicy chicken, tender rice, and a lemony kick. It’s great for a no-fuss family dinner, and it reheats well for leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Chicken & Rice Casserole
Peach Caprese Skewers
Swap tomatoes for peaches in this fresh take on Caprese salad. Skewered with mozzarella and basil, it’s a fun and light appetizer for summer snacking or entertaining.
Get the Recipe: Peach Caprese Skewers
Chopped Vegetable Caesar Salad
This chopped salad mixes crisp veggies with classic Caesar dressing for a crunchy, satisfying dish. Works as a main or a side, and holds up well for lunch prep.
Get the Recipe: Chopped Vegetable Caesar Salad
Cranberry Goat Cheese Sweet Potato Bites
Roasted sweet potato rounds topped with creamy goat cheese and cranberries make a quick, elegant appetizer. Great for holiday spreads or small gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Goat Cheese Sweet Potato Bites
Balsamic Chicken & Butternut Squash Dinner
Chicken and roasted butternut squash are tossed in a savory balsamic glaze for a cozy, sheet-pan-style meal. It’s a one-pan dinner with minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Balsamic Chicken & Butternut Squash Dinner
Traeger Smoked Pork Loin Roast
This pork loin roast is smoked low and slow on a Traeger for maximum flavor. Ideal for weekend meals or when you want to impress with outdoor cooking.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Pork Loin Roast
Breakfast Caprese Flatbread
A simple breakfast flatbread topped with tomato, mozzarella, and fresh basil. It’s a quick morning option that feels a little more special than toast or eggs.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Caprese Flatbread
Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts
Boneless chicken breasts are smoked on a Traeger for juicy results with rich, smoky flavor. Slice them up for salads, sandwiches, or dinner plates.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts
5 Vegetarian Salad in a Jar Recipes
A make-ahead set of five colorful salads, each layered in jars for easy storage and transport. Great for grab-and-go lunches and weekly meal prep.
Get the Recipe: 5 Vegetarian Salad in a Jar Recipes
Pressure Cooker Chili Lime Chicken Tacos
Chicken cooks quickly in a pressure cooker with chili lime seasoning, making these tacos fast and flavorful. Serve with slaw or salsa for a full meal.
Get the Recipe: Pressure Cooker Chili Lime Chicken Tacos
Air Fryer Carrot Fries
These carrot fries are crisp on the outside and soft in the middle, made in the air fryer for a lighter snack or side. A fun alternative to regular fries.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Carrot Fries
Chipotle Chicken & Southwest Root Vegetable Bowls
This bowl brings together smoky chipotle chicken and roasted root veggies for a filling, nutrient-packed meal. Great for dinner or meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Chipotle Chicken & Southwest Root Vegetable Bowls
Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders
These air-fried tenders are crispy without deep frying and coated in classic buffalo sauce. Perfect for a quick lunch, game day snack, or light dinner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Thai Peanut Chicken Crunch Slaw Salad
Shredded chicken, slaw, and a creamy Thai peanut dressing come together in this fresh, crunchy salad. It’s a flavorful meal that’s great any time of year.
Get the Recipe: Thai Peanut Chicken Crunch Slaw Salad
Pesto Chicken Sub Sandwich
This sandwich is loaded with pesto-marinated chicken, tomatoes, and onions. It’s a solid lunch or dinner option that’s easy to assemble and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Chicken Sub Sandwich
Citrus Shrimp Salad
Shrimp tossed in citrus dressing served over greens makes this salad light and refreshing. It’s a quick meal that still feels fresh and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Shrimp Salad