17+ High Volume Low Calorie Meal Prep Recipes

Imagine indulging in meals that not only satisfy your hunger but also keep your calories in check. Discover how you can enjoy delicious flavors while still embracing healthy eating habits.

Hearty Vegetable & Quinoa Soup

Quinoa Vegetable Soup

Quinoa Vegetable Soup from Cookie and Kate

Rating: 4.9.

Hearty Vegetable and Quinoa Soup

Hearty Vegetable and Quinoa Soup from Killing Thyme

Rating: 5. Total Time: 45 min.

Quinoa and Vegetable Soup

Quinoa and Vegetable Soup from Allrecipes

Rating: 4.7. Total Time: 1 h 15 min.

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This soup is a delightful medley of fresh vegetables, hearty quinoa, and aromatic herbs, resulting in a comforting and satisfying bowl. The blend of carrots, celery, zucchini, and tomatoes creates a vibrant flavor profile, while quinoa adds a nutty texture.

What makes this recipe special is its versatility and ease. You can toss in any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, making it perfect for clearing out the fridge. Plus, the soup gets better as it sits, making it ideal for meal prep. Each spoonful is packed with nutrients and warmth, making it a go-to dish for any day.

Spicy Chickpea & Spinach Stew

Spicy Chickpea and Spinach Stew

Spicy Chickpea and Spinach Stew from Oh My Veggies

Rating: 4.5. Total Time: 25 min.

Spanish chickpea and spinach stew

Spanish chickpea and spinach stew from Lazy Cat Kitchen

Rating: 4.9. Total Time: 40 min.

Spinach Stew

Spinach Stew from The Plant Based School

Rating: 5. Total Time: 35 min.

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This stew combines the earthy flavors of chickpeas and spinach with a spicy kick from chili flakes and cumin. The creaminess of the chickpeas balances the heat, while the spinach adds a fresh and vibrant touch.

What’s great about this recipe is its simplicity and depth of flavor. Cooked in one pot, it’s quick to prepare and even quicker to disappear from the table. The rich, spicy aroma fills your kitchen, making it hard to resist. It’s a wholesome meal prep option that’s both filling and flavorful.

It’s a dish you can enjoy hot or cold, and it pairs wonderfully with whole grain bread or a side of rice. The combination of protein from the chickpeas and iron from the spinach makes it a nutritional powerhouse.

Colorful Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed Peppers from Delish

Rating: 4.3. Total Time: 1 h 30 min.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed Bell Peppers from Budget Bytes

Rating: 4.6. Total Time: 1 h 5 min.

Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed Peppers from Once Upon a Chef

Rating: 4.8. Total Time: 1 h 15 min.

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These stuffed peppers are a treat for both the eyes and the palate, filled with a savory mix of brown rice, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes, all seasoned with a hint of lime and cilantro.

The vibrant colors of the bell peppers not only make the dish visually appealing but also add a sweet, roasted flavor. This recipe is special because of its balance of textures and tastes, offering a complete meal in each pepper. It’s perfect for meal prep since it reheats beautifully, maintaining its freshness and flavor throughout the week.

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto & Cherry Tomatoes

Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomatoes

Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomatoes from Eating European

Rating: 4.

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto from My Darling Vegan

Rating: 5.

Pesto Zucchini Noodles

Pesto Zucchini Noodles from To Simply Inspire

Rating: 5.

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If you’re looking for a light yet satisfying meal, these zucchini noodles are the answer. Tossed in a homemade basil pesto and topped with juicy cherry tomatoes, this dish is a burst of fresh flavors.

The spiralized zucchini offers a low-calorie alternative to traditional pasta, making it a perfect choice for those mindful of their intake. The homemade pesto, with its blend of fresh basil, garlic, and nuts, elevates the dish, while the cherry tomatoes provide a sweet and tangy contrast.

This recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also versatile. Add some grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein, and you’ve got a meal that’s both delicious and nutritious.

Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry

Cauliflower Fried Rice

Cauliflower Fried Rice from Once Upon a Chef

Rating: 4.9. Total Time: 30 min.

Cauliflower Rice Stir Fry Bowl (Vegan, Gluten Free)

Cauliflower Rice Stir Fry Bowl (Vegan, Gluten Free) from Veggie Chick

Rating: 4.9. Total Time: 20 min.

30-Minute Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry

30-Minute Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry from Minimalist Baker

Rating: 4.8. Total Time: 30 min.

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This stir-fry is a colorful mix of cauliflower rice, bell peppers, peas, and carrots, all cooked with a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil for a delicious umami flavor.

The cauliflower rice is a fantastic low-carb substitute for regular rice, and it absorbs the flavors of the stir-fry perfectly. This recipe stands out because it’s incredibly adaptable; you can add your choice of protein or mix in different vegetables depending on what’s in your fridge.

It’s a meal prep dream because it stays fresh and flavorful, and it’s ready in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak extra veggies into your diet without even noticing.

Roasted Vegetable & Farro Salad

Warm Farro Salad with Roasted Root Vegetables

Warm Farro Salad with Roasted Root Vegetables from Dietitian Debbie Dishes

Rating: 4.5.

Roasted Vegetable and Farro Salad with Goat Cheese

Roasted Vegetable and Farro Salad with Goat Cheese from Ali Maffucci

Rating: 5. Total Time: 50 min.

Roast Vegetable Salad with Farro

Roast Vegetable Salad with Farro from Healthy Midwestern Girl

Rating: 5. Total Time: 50 min.

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This salad is a delightful blend of roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and red onions mixed with farro, a nutty ancient grain. A zesty lemon vinaigrette ties everything together.

The roasted vegetables bring out a natural sweetness, while the farro adds a hearty texture. What makes this recipe a standout is its versatility and the depth of flavors. It’s not just a salad; it’s a complete meal that satisfies both taste and nutrition.

This is an ideal meal prep option, as the flavors meld together beautifully over time, and it can be enjoyed warm or cold. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, and it keeps you full without weighing you down.

Pro Tricks for Amazing High Volume Low Calorie Meals

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Maximize Flavor with Herbs and Spices

Fresh herbs and spices can elevate your meals without adding extra calories. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavors and keep your dishes exciting.

Batch Cook for Efficiency

Preparing large batches of meals at once saves time and ensures you have healthy options ready-to-eat. Use airtight containers to portion out meals for the week.

Incorporate a Variety of Textures

Mixing crunchy, creamy, and chewy elements in your meals can make them more satisfying. Add nuts, seeds, or a dollop of yogurt to your dishes for an interesting texture contrast.