When it comes to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, dinner plays a key role in keeping your calorie count balanced for the day. Fortunately, Indian cuisine offers a variety of delicious, wholesome options that are light, nutritious, and satisfy your hunger without packing on extra calories. Whether you’re watching your weight or simply aiming for a lighter meal, here are some traditional Indian foods that make for a satisfying dinner under 200 calories.
1. Moong Dal Soup (Green Gram Soup) – 150-170 Calories
Moong dal soup is a light, protein-packed dish made from split green gram. This nutrient-dense soup is not only low in calories but also rich in fiber, making it a perfect choice for dinner. The dal is boiled and tempered with cumin, garlic, and a sprinkle of spices for flavor, making it a warm and comforting meal.
2. Vegetable Stir-Fry (Mixed Sabzi) – 120-150 Calories
A simple, colorful vegetable stir-fry made with ingredients like bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, and spinach is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense dinner option. Lightly sautéed in minimal oil with spices like cumin, turmeric, and coriander, this dish is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
3. Cucumber Raita – 100-120 Calories
Cucumber raita, made with low-fat yogurt, grated cucumber, and a dash of roasted cumin powder, is a refreshing, hydrating side dish. It’s light on calories, easy to make, and pairs well with almost any Indian meal. You can also add other vegetables like tomatoes or mint for extra flavor and nutrition.
4. Palak Soup (Spinach Soup) – 90-110 Calories
Palak soup is a light, nutrient-packed option for a low-calorie dinner. Made by blending spinach with spices and a touch of garlic, this soup provides a healthy dose of iron and fiber. It’s filling enough to be enjoyed on its own, or you can pair it with a light salad.
5. Idli with Coconut Chutney – 140-180 Calories
Idlis are a classic South Indian dish made from fermented rice and urad dal (black gram). These steamed rice cakes are not only low in calories but also rich in fiber and easy on the stomach. Pair one or two small idlis with a light coconut chutney to keep your calorie count in check for a healthy, filling dinner.
6. Lauki (Bottle Gourd) Sabzi – 80-100 Calories
Lauki, or bottle gourd, is a humble yet highly nutritious vegetable often used in Indian cooking. Lauki sabzi is prepared by lightly sautéing diced bottle gourd with mustard seeds, cumin, and a pinch of turmeric. This dish is extremely low in calories but high in fiber, making it a perfect choice for a light dinner.
7. Tandoori Paneer Tikka – 150-180 Calories
For those who crave a bit of protein in their dinner, tandoori paneer tikka is a delicious option. Paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cubes are marinated in a mix of yogurt and spices, then grilled or baked. This dish is filling yet light on calories and can be enjoyed with a side of salad for a complete meal.
8. Moong Dal Chilla (Savory Pancakes) – 120-160 Calories
Moong dal chilla is a healthy, low-calorie savory pancake made from ground yellow moong dal batter. It’s pan-cooked with minimal oil and is often flavored with spices and herbs. You can add finely chopped vegetables like onions, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
9. Clear Vegetable Soup – 70-90 Calories
A clear vegetable soup made with carrots, cabbage, mushrooms, and peas is a light and nourishing dinner option. The broth is flavored with herbs and a touch of spices, and the vegetables provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals without adding many calories. It’s a satisfying and hydrating choice for a calorie-conscious meal.
10. Sprouts Salad – 80-100 Calories
A salad made with sprouted moong beans, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a dash of lemon juice is an excellent low-calorie, high-protein option for dinner. Sprouts are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients, making this salad both light and filling. Adding a sprinkle of chaat masala or cumin powder enhances the flavor.
(This article is intended for your general information only. Zee News does not vouch for its accuracy or reliability.)