With eating being a favorite hobby of lots of (dare I say all?) people, I know you can probably identify with those who have some type of food goal, whether it’s to eat less, eat lighter, or eat smarter. “Trying to be good” can become synonymous with an overwhelming amount of legalism and a plate of celery sticks with a side of guilt.

While I do think it’s so important to choose a balanced and moderate diet, I don’t think that means that you have to eat only carrots and legumes every meal of the day. Staying focused on your goal of being wiser with your foods will require you to eat things that you think taste good, fill you up, and leave you thinking, “Yum. That was delicious and still healthy.” Discipline and enjoyment can be combined and it’ll be a lot easier on you in the long run.

The recipes I’ve chosen are all dinner recipes that have under 300 calories per serving. They are all warm and satisfying (yet still low calorie) meals. I’ve also thrown in a dessert recipe because, hey, desserts make life a little more happy.

*These prices are based off of averages and are subject to change weekly

chicken, potato, & leek pie – recipe
298 calories per serving

bacon – $3
red potatoes – $2.50 (5 lb bag)
chicken thighs – $1.59 lb
chicken broth – $1.75

Shrimp & Avocado Tacos – recipe
261 calories per serving

tomatoes – $1.29 lb
avocado – $1.50 ea.
shrimp – $7.99 lb
tortillas – $1.04

Slow Cooker Chili – recipe
273 calories per serving

ground beef – $2.49 lb
onions – 88¢ lb
bell pepper – 69¢
tomato sauce – 49¢

Roasted Vegetable Lasagna – recipe
272 calories per serving

bell pepper – 69¢
yellow squash – $1.49 lb
cottage cheese – $1.50
shredded cheese – $2

Strawberry Granita – recipe
136 calories per serving

sugar – $1.98 (4 lb bag)
strawberries – $2.50
lemon juice – 89¢

See more menu plans!