Categories Wellness-Health

28 Delicious No-Sugar Mediterranean Dinners

Looking for some delicious dinner inspiration this week? These recipes are designed to be free of added sugars while highlighting key elements of the Mediterranean diet. You’ll find colorful vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats in these dishes, all of which boast at least 4-star reviews from EatingWell readers. From the comforting High-Protein Chicken Parmesan Skillet with Beans to the fresh and vibrant High-Fiber Black Bean Fajita Salad, there’s something here for every palate.

01 of 28

High-Protein Chicken Parmesan Skillet with Beans: The Perfect One-Pan Meal

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey.

Credit: Photographer: Jen Causey.

This chicken Parmesan-inspired skillet dish replaces pasta with creamy cannellini beans, creating a satisfying one-pan dinner. Tender chicken simmers in marinara sauce with garlic, shallots, and Italian herbs, then gets topped with mozzarella and finished under the broiler. Pair it with toasted whole-wheat baguette slices to scoop up the flavorful beans.

02 of 28

High-Protein Chicken Wrap with Pesto

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 high-protein chicken wrap bursts with fresh flavors and can be prepared in just 15 minutes. A quick vegan pesto made from basil, spinach, and toasted nuts adds a vibrant, herbaceous note without any cheese. Wrapped in whole-wheat tortillas alongside creamy avocado and crisp greens, these wraps make for an effortless lunch or light dinner.

03 of 28

High-Fiber Black Bean Fajita Salad: A Quick Dinner Option

Credit: Photographer: Ali Redmond.

Credit: Photographer: Ali Redmond.

Experience the bold, zesty flavors of fajitas with this appealing no-cook Black Bean Fajita Salad. A quick lime-infused marinade adds zest to the black beans and bell peppers, while crisp greens and crunchy tortilla strips provide delightful texture. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a great choice for lunch or a light dinner.

04 of 28

Creamy Lemon Chicken Skillet with Spinach & Peas: A Protein-Packed Delight

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 perfectly showcases tender chicken cutlets, all in a single skillet. Pair it with a creamy brown rice medley enriched with spinach and sweet peas. The addition of lemon zest and juice offers a refreshing taste, while a hint of goat cheese melts into the warm rice for added richness.

05 of 28

High-Protein White Bean Fajita Casserole: A New Pantry Favorite

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 cheese for a satisfying meal. A brief stint under the broiler melds the flavors together, enhanced by avocado, cilantro, and sour cream for a refreshing balance.

06 of 28

Easiest High-Fiber Pasta with Tomato Sauce

Credit: Photographer: Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Lauren Odum, Prop Styling: Josh Hoggle

Credit: Photographer: Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Lauren Odum, Prop Styling: Josh Hoggle

This straightforward pasta dish features fresh plum tomatoes that are simmered into a rustic, chunky sauce, enhanced with garlic and herbs, and enriched with a hint of butter. It’s a quick, gratifying meal made from pantry staples and a handful of fresh ingredients.

07 of 28

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 effortless “marry-me” dish combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and whole-wheat pasta in a creamy, Parmesan-infused sauce. Fresh spinach and basil elevate the rich flavors, making it a comforting yet sophisticated meal suitable for any weeknight.

08 of 28

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 comforting chicken-and-rice casserole achieves depth of flavor through a combination of Parmesan, cream cheese, and savory bacon, complemented by tender spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. It offers a nutritious twist on a classic creamy chicken casserole without compromising taste!

09 of 28

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 straightforward baked pasta combines creamy Boursin cheese, zesty lemon, and an assortment of spring vegetables into a delightful dinner. Since it cooks in one dish, the pasta absorbs all the flavors, providing a veggie-forward meal that’s just perfect for the season.

10 of 28

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 dish is rich in protein and flavor, featuring tender chicken cutlets, whole-wheat orzo, and wilted kale in a smooth, lemony herb sauce. Dill and scallions inject freshness, while a bold homemade spice blend rounds out the dish.

11 of 28

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 provide a satisfying, high-protein meal with minimal effort. Tender roasted sweet potatoes are filled with seasoned ground turkey, topped with creamy avocado and a dollop of yogurt. The combination of hearty, fresh, and creamy flavors creates a comforting yet balanced dinner.

12 of 28

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 dinner features roasted baby Yukon Gold potatoes paired with crispy green beans, creating a quick all-in-one meal. A thyme and olive oil mixture infuses the salmon with delightful flavor while ensuring the vegetables are lightly drizzled. With minimal preparation and easy cleanup, it’s a satisfying option for busy weeknights.

13 of 28

High-Protein Ginger Chicken Soup

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 comforting ginger chicken soup is abundant in lean protein and a medley of vegetables, perfect for a cozy meal. Fresh ginger and warm spices like cumin and coriander lend deep flavor to the broth, while potatoes and spinach ensure the soup is hearty and filling.

14 of 28

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 comforting chicken and brown rice casserole achieves creaminess through a blended cashew sauce instead of traditional cream. Sweet potatoes add a hint of natural sweetness and additional fiber, while baby spinach brings visual appeal and nutrients to the dish.

15 of 28

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 robust soup is filled with lean protein, fiber-rich beans, and vibrant vegetables enhanced with aromatic flavors from sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes, and lemon. Quick to prepare, it’s a nutritious meal ready to serve in just 30 minutes.

16 of 28

High-Protein Crispy Chicken & Rice Skillet Casserole

This bold, crispy chicken and rice skillet casserole comes with minimal cleanup. Bone-in chicken thighs are treated with a warm blend of cumin, smoked paprika, and turmeric, then seared until the skin is golden brown before being finished in the oven atop a savory rice mixture with onion and bell pepper. A drizzle of spiced tahini adds a creamy finish that ties the entire dish together.

17 of 28

Chopped Italian Chickpea Salad

Credit: Photographer Victor Protasio, Food Stylist Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist Phoebe Hauser.

Credit: Photographer Victor Protasio, Food Stylist Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist Phoebe Hauser.

This Italian-style chopped salad combines crisp lettuce, creamy chickpeas, juicy tomatoes, and sharp provolone, all dressed in a zesty red-wine vinaigrette. Hearty enough to serve as a standalone lunch yet versatile enough to accompany grilled chicken or fish.

18 of 28

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 delightful casserole is creamy and satisfying, featuring protein- and fiber-rich white beans, hearty quinoa, and a silky sauce spiked with Parmesan and spinach. Bright fresh lemon zest and juice rejuvenate the dish, making it an ideal meal for spring or whenever you’re craving something comforting.

19 of 28

Green Goddess Chickpea Bowl

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 herbaceous chickpea bowl combines hearty chickpeas and quinoa, all topped with a creamy green goddess dressing made from Greek yogurt and avocado. It’s an incredibly satisfying vegetarian meal, perfect for a light lunch or dinner, offering fiber, protein, and fresh flavors in every bite.

20 of 28

Easy Bean Salad With Herby Salsa Verde

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 refreshing bean salad is elevated by a quick, homemade salsa verde bursting with fresh herbs, jalapeño, and lime. Featuring a hearty mix of creamy beans, crunchy radishes, and smoky corn, it’s perfect for a light lunch or a simple dinner.

21 of 28

Sweet Potato-Crust Quiche with Veggies

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 veggie-laden quiche features a sweet potato crust filled with spinach and sweet bell peppers, enhanced with a touch of heat from pepper Jack cheese. It makes a beautiful and hearty addition to your brunch or dinner table.

22 of 28

Brothy Cacio e Pepe Beans

Credit: Photographer Victor Protasio, Food Stylist Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist Phoebe Hauser.

Credit: Photographer Victor Protasio, Food Stylist Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist Phoebe Hauser.

This dish takes inspiration from the classic Roman pasta, offering the bold flavors of cacio e pepe in a warm, spoonable form. Cannellini beans simmer in a peppery broth, finished with nutty pecorino and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve with slices of toasted whole-wheat baguette for dipping.

23 of 28

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 satisfying one-skillet meal transforms the flavors of classic spinach-artichoke dip into an easy weeknight dinner. Creamy butter beans offer plant-based protein and fiber, while artichokes and fresh spinach provide brightness and texture.

24 of 28

Loaded Chopped Taco Salad Bowl

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 refreshing taco salad bowl requires no cooking and is rich in fiber and plant-based protein from black beans. A variety of toppings, including crunchy lettuce, sweet bell peppers, cotija cheese, and pickled onions, contribute excellent texture and flavor. Complete the colorful meal with a tangy lime vinaigrette, making it ideal for lunch or dinner.

25 of 28

Sheet-Pan Balsamic Salmon & Asparagus

Credit: Photographer: Ali Redmond.

Credit: Photographer: Ali Redmond.

This Sheet-Pan Balsamic Salmon & Asparagus is a quick and easy dinner that delivers on flavor. Salmon, asparagus, and red onion roast together in a tangy balsamic-soy marinade infused with garlic and Dijon, providing the perfect balance of savory and rich. A squeeze of lemon adds a fresh touch to finish off the meal.

26 of 28

Chickpea-Eggplant Bowls with Tahini

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 vibrant vegetarian bowls feature smoky roasted eggplant, crisp arugula, and creamy tahini, layered over a bold roasted red pepper sauce. The sauce and dressing can easily be prepared ahead, making this dish an excellent choice for a convenient plant-based dinner.

27 of 28

Chicken Marsala Casserole

Credit: Photographer: Greg Dupree, Food Stylist: Margaret Dickey, Prop Stylist: Abby Armstrong.

Credit: Photographer: Greg Dupree, Food Stylist: Margaret Dickey, Prop Stylist: Abby Armstrong.

This easy casserole captures the classic flavors of chicken Marsala in a hearty format. Tender chopped chicken, nutty whole-wheat orzo, and deeply caramelized mushrooms are baked together in a luscious Marsala sauce. Stirring halfway through ensures even cooking for a delicious result.

28 of 28

Cheesy French Onion Chickpeas

Credit: Photographer: Alex Huang.

Credit: Photographer: Alex Huang.

These French onion chickpeas offer a clever twist on traditional French onion soup, incorporating chickpeas for an extra boost of fiber and protein. Slowly cooked onions and a savory broth create a rich, flavorful base, while melted Gruyère cheese and toasted whole-wheat baguette slices bring the iconic essence of the dish home—no bowl required.

For more delicious recipes, check out the original article on EatingWell.

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