25 Low-Calorie, High-Protein Dinner Recipes for the Mediterranean Diet

Reviewed by Dietitian Madeline Peck, RDN, CDN

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey.

These low-calorie, high-protein dinner recipes can help you meet your goals in a flavorful way. Not only are these dishes each under 575 calories per serving, but they also have 15 or more grams of protein per serving so you'll feel satisfied while meeting your nutrition goals. Plus, with a heavy focus on plant-based foods, healthy fats, lean proteins and whole grains, these dinners align with the Mediterranean diet. Recipes like our Cheesy Chicken, Tomato & Broccoli Casserole and our Salmon Piccata Grain Bowl are nutritious and unforgettably delicious dinner options.

01 of 25

High-Protein Tofu-Zucchini Piccata

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey.
Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey.

This plant-forward take on piccata swaps the traditional meat for protein-rich tofu while keeping the bright, lemony caper sauce the dish is known for. Whole-wheat spaghetti and plenty of zucchini add fiber, while garlic, parsley and olive oil round out the flavors.

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02 of 25

Cheesy Chicken, Tomato & Broccoli Casserole

Credit: Photographer: Stacy Allen.
Credit: Photographer: Stacy Allen.

This cheesy chicken casserole is a cozy, veggie-packed dinner that comes together with the help of a few convenient ingredients. Precooked quinoa and brown rice keep prep minimal, while broccoli, tomatoes and melty mozzarella make it hearty and satisfying for an easy weeknight meal.

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03 of 25

Easy Salmon Cakes

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey.
Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey.

These easy salmon cakes are served with a simple salad for a balanced, nutrient-rich meal. Paired with a quick homemade vinaigrette, this dish comes together in under an hour and works well for both weeknights and casual lunches.

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04 of 25

Marry Me Chicken Orzo Casserole

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey.
Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey.

This creamy chicken and orzo casserole is inspired by the viral Marry Me Chicken, featuring sun-dried tomatoes, garlic and herbs in a rich, savory sauce. Whole-wheat orzo adds a boost of fiber, while spinach brings color and balance to this satisfying, crowd-pleasing dish.

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05 of 25

Salmon Piccata Grain Bowl

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey.
Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey.

This salmon piccata–inspired grain bowl combines flaky salmon, nutty farro and tender-crisp asparagus with a bright lemon-caper dressing. The flavors of classic piccata bring a fresh, savory finish to this balanced bowl. It’s a satisfying 30-minute meal that’s perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner.

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06 of 25

Honey-Garlic Chicken Thighs with Zucchini

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey.
Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey.

A sweet and savory honey-garlic marinade gives these grilled chicken thighs plenty of flavor while keeping them juicy. Zucchini cooks alongside on the grill until tender and lightly charred, making this an easy summer dinner with minimal cleanup.

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07 of 25

High-Protein Green Bean & Tuna Salad

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey.
Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey.

This bright green bean and tuna salad is a quick, protein-packed entree that comes together in just 25 minutes. Crisp green beans, flaky tuna and fresh herbs are tossed in a tangy Dijon vinaigrette, while peperoncini add a briny pop of flavor. Serve it on its own for a light dinner or with crusty bread for a more filling meal.

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08 of 25

High-Protein Broccoli-Cheddar Orzo Is on the Table in 30 Minutes

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey.
Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey.

This broccoli-Cheddar orzo recipe is inspired by the comforting flavors of broccoli-Cheddar soup. Whole-wheat orzo cooks right in the skillet with broccoli and broth, creating a rich, risotto-like texture. Finished with sharp Cheddar and a splash of half-and-half, it’s a satisfying vegetarian dinner that comes together in just one pan.

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09 of 25

Chicken Parmesan Skillet with Beans

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey.
Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey.

This chicken Parmesan–inspired skillet dinner swaps the pasta for creamy cannellini beans, creating a hearty one-pan meal. Tender chicken simmers in marinara with garlic, shallots and Italian seasoning before being topped with mozzarella and finished under the broiler. Serve with toasted whole-wheat baguette slices to scoop up the saucy beans.

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10 of 25

Creamy Lemon Chicken Skillet with Spinach & Peas

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley.
Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley.

This creamy lemon chicken dish is a bright, one-skillet dinner that pairs tender chicken cutlets with a creamy brown rice mixture studded with spinach and sweet peas. Lemon zest and juice add fresh flavor, while a touch of goat cheese melts into the warm rice for richness and savory flavor.

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11 of 25

Honey-Mustard Chicken & Broccoli Casserole

Credit: Photographer: Caley Ellenburg, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen.
Credit: Photographer: Caley Ellenburg, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen.

This comforting casserole combines tender chicken, whole-wheat pasta and broccoli in a creamy honey-mustard sauce. A sprinkle of toasted panko on top adds a crisp finish, making it a satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

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12 of 25

White Bean Fajita Casserole

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley.
Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley.

This white bean fajita casserole layers tender peppers and onions with creamy cannellini beans, corn tortillas and melty Cheddar-Jack for a satisfying dinner. A quick broil brings everything together, while avocado, cilantro and sour cream add fresh, cooling contrast.

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13 of 25

Marry Me Chicken & Spinach Penne Skillet

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Julian Hensarling, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley.
Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Julian Hensarling, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley.

This easy “marry-me” dinner combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes and whole-wheat pasta in a creamy, Parmesan-infused sauce. Fresh spinach and basil brighten the rich flavors, making this comforting meal weeknight-friendly yet special enough for company.

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14 of 25

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

Credit: Photographer: Stacy Allen, Food Stylist: Margaret Dickey, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle
Credit: Photographer: Stacy Allen, Food Stylist: Margaret Dickey, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle

This creamy chicken-and-rice casserole gets its flavor from a combination of Parmesan, cream cheese and savory bacon, balanced with plenty of tender spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. It’s a healthier spin on a classic creamy chicken casserole that still tastes like a million bucks!

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15 of 25

Baked Lemon Boursin Pasta with Spring Vegetables

Credit: Photographer: Stacy Allen, Food Stylist: Margaret Dickey, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle.
Credit: Photographer: Stacy Allen, Food Stylist: Margaret Dickey, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle.

This easy baked pasta combines creamy Boursin cheese, bright lemon and a mix of spring vegetables into a fresh and comforting dinner. Everything cooks in one dish, allowing the pasta to absorb all the flavors. It’s a simple, veggie-forward meal that’s perfect for spring.

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16 of 25

High-Protein Dill Chicken Orzo

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Stylist: Claire Spolle.
Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Stylist: Claire Spolle.

This one-pan dinner delivers on protein and flavor with tender chicken cutlets, whole-wheat orzo and wilted kale in a creamy, lemony herb sauce. Dill and scallions add fresh brightness, while a bold homemade spice blend brings the flavor.

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17 of 25

Stuffed Sweet Potato with Ground Turkey & Avocado

Credit: Photographer: Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer
Credit: Photographer: Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer

These stuffed sweet potatoes make a satisfying, high-protein meal with minimal fuss. Tender roasted sweet potatoes are filled with savory ground turkey seasoned with cumin and oregano, then topped with creamy avocado and a dollop of yogurt. The combination of hearty, fresh and creamy flavors makes this an easy dinner that’s both comforting and balanced.

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18 of 25

Sheet-Pan Roasted Salmon with Potatoes & Green Beans

Credit: Photographer: Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer.
Credit: Photographer: Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer.

This easy sheet-pan salmon dinner pairs roasted baby Yukon Gold potatoes with crisp-tender green beans for a simple all-in-one meal. A thyme and olive oil mixture infuses the salmon with bright flavor while finishing the vegetables with a light drizzle. With minimal prep and easy cleanup, it’s a satisfying option for busy weeknights.

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19 of 25

Tuna & Veggie Grain Bowl

Credit: Photographer: Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimme.
Credit: Photographer: Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimme.

This vibrant grain bowl combines nutty farro, roasted root vegetables and canned tuna for a balanced meal that’s both hearty and fresh. Roasting the beets, carrots and parsnips brings out their natural sweetness, while a quick lemony yogurt sauce adds brightness and creaminess.

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20 of 25

High-Protein Chicken & Brown Rice Casserole

Credit: Photographer: Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer
Credit: Photographer: Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer

This cozy chicken and brown rice casserole gets its creamy texture from a blended cashew sauce instead of cream. Sweet potatoes add subtle sweetness and extra fiber, while baby spinach brings color to the dish.

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21 of 25

High-Protein, High-Fiber Chicken Soup

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen.
Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen.

This hearty soup is loaded with lean protein, fiber-rich beans and vegetables, and bold flavors from sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes and lemon. Quick-cooking and satisfying, it’s a nutritious meal you can get on your table in just 30 minutes.

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22 of 25

Creamy Lemon-Parmesan Spinach & White Bean Casserole

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen.
Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen.

This comforting casserole is creamy and satisfying, thanks to protein- and fiber-rich white beans, hearty quinoa and a silky Parmesan-spiked spinach sauce. Fresh lemon zest and juice brighten the dish, making it perfect for spring or anytime you want a cozy, fresh-baked meal.

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23 of 25

Black Bean & Veggie Smash Burgers

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

These vegetarian black bean smash burgers feature a savory black bean patty spiced with chipotle chile, crisped to perfection and topped with melty Monterey Jack. A quick, tangy yogurt-based sauce ties it all together. It’s a satisfying plant-forward option that’s big on flavor and fiber.

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24 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.

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25 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.

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