Are you looking for healthy and delicious recipe ideas that fit within your Weight Watchers plan? You’re in luck! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering recipes that are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings while helping you reach your weight loss goals.
From zesty shrimp and noodles to hearty stews and soups, our collection of Weight Watchers recipes has something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, we’ve got you covered with easy-to-follow instructions and helpful tips along the way.
So what are you waiting for? Dive in and start cooking up some deliciousness today!
Zucchini Noodles with Lemon Garlic Shrimp
A bright and citrusy twist on traditional pasta dishes, this recipe combines the flavors of lemon, garlic, and succulent shrimp with zucchini noodles for a healthy and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spiralize the zucchini into noodle-like strands.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to low and add lemon juice.
6. Toss zucchini noodles with lemon sauce for 1-2 minutes or until slightly tender.
7. Combine cooked shrimp and zucchini noodles. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Skinny Chicken Enchiladas
These skinny chicken enchiladas are a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy the flavors of Mexico without breaking the calorie bank. By using lean protein, whole wheat tortillas, and plenty of veggies, you’ll be able to satisfy your cravings while keeping things in check.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 whole wheat tortillas
– 1 can (10 oz) low-fat cream of mushroom soup
– 1/4 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, and avocado for toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, black beans, corn, bell pepper, and onion.
3. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat.
4. Assemble enchiladas by spooning the chicken mixture onto each tortilla, rolling up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
5. Pour cream of mushroom soup over the top and sprinkle with cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and customize with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Low-Point Turkey Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili recipe that’s perfect for a low-calorie meal option. This turkey chili is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it an excellent choice for those looking to reduce their point count.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey breast
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot and cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cauliflower Fried Rice
Transform cauliflower into a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried rice with this simple recipe. This dish is perfect as a side or main course, and can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of mixed veggies (e.g. peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: scrambled eggs or cooked chicken for added protein
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
2. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Add onion and garlic, cook until softened (2-3 minutes).
5. Add mixed veggies and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Add processed cauliflower “rice” and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
7. Season with soy sauce and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creaminess of Greek yogurt with the savory flavor of chicken, making it a perfect light meal or snack for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, Greek yogurt, cucumber, bell pepper, and Dijon mustard.
2. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Spaghetti Squash with Marinara Sauce
Transform your pasta game with this simple and nutritious recipe, featuring roasted spaghetti squash instead of traditional noodles. This flavorful dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a healthy lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 jar marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought, about 16 oz)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash halves on a baking sheet, cut side up. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast the squash for 45-50 minutes, or until tender and easily shredded with a fork.
5. While the squash is cooking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
6. Once the squash is ready, use a fork to shred it into spaghetti-like strands.
7. Combine the cooked squash with the warmed marinara sauce and top with Parmesan cheese (if using).
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Tilapia
A crispy and flavorful twist on traditional tilapia, this recipe combines the tender fish with a crunchy parmesan crust, all achieved through the magic of air frying.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Season tilapia fillets with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Dip each fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
5. Place coated fillets in the air fryer basket. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until fish is cooked through and crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Savor a hearty and comforting beef stew cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day when you want a delicious meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the beef cubes, onion, garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and thyme to your slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Lightened-Up Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic gets a nutritious twist! This recipe reduces the fat content without sacrificing flavor or creamy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup reduced-fat milk (2% or skim)
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (reduced-fat)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, reduced-fat milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional). Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Enjoy your lightened-up mac and cheese!
Veggie-Packed Egg Muffins
Start your day off right with these veggie-packed egg muffins, packed with protein, fiber, and flavor. Perfect for a quick breakfast on-the-go or a nutritious snack to fuel your morning.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup mixed veggies (bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, onions)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 whole wheat English muffins
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Add mixed veggies, shredded cheese, and olive oil to the egg mixture. Mix well.
4. Split each English muffin in half and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Pour about 1/6 cup of the egg mixture onto each muffin half.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until eggs are set.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers
Brighten up your mealtime with this flavorful and nutritious recipe! Quinoa-stuffed bell peppers are a delicious and healthy twist on traditional stuffed peppers, packed with protein-rich quinoa, tender vegetables, and savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup black beans, cooked and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, black beans, onion, garlic, and cumin.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
4. Place peppers in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Skinny Taco Soup
This recipe takes the flavors of traditional taco soup and lightens it up with lean protein, veggies, and low-calorie ingredients. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey breast
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced avocado for toppings
Instructions:
1. Cook turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Add diced tomatoes, black beans, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let soup cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot with optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Salmon with Dill Sauce
This recipe combines the simplicity of baking salmon with the brightness of a tangy dill sauce, perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. While the salmon is baking, mix the mayonnaise, dill, lemon juice, and mustard in a bowl.
7. Remove the salmon from the oven and top each fillet with a dollop of the dill sauce.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
9. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Healthy Banana Oat Pancakes
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast that’s packed with fiber and protein! These moist and flavorful pancakes are made with ripe bananas, rolled oats, and a touch of honey.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together oats, flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add mashed bananas, honey, egg, and milk to the dry ingredients. Whisk until smooth.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or oil if necessary.
4. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan for each pancake.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 pancakes (depending on size)
Low-Carb Turkey Lettuce Wraps
A flavorful and low-carb twist on the classic wrap, this recipe uses crisp lettuce leaves as a substitute for traditional wraps. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, these turkey lettuce wraps are packed with protein, vegetables, and creamy avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Lay a lettuce leaf flat on a plate.
2. Top with sliced turkey, red bell pepper, cucumber, and feta cheese (if using).
3. Drizzle with mayonnaise and season with salt and pepper.
4. Repeat the layers for the remaining three wraps.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy!
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and impressive main course. Moist chicken breast is filled with a savory blend of spinach, feta cheese, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the spinach mixture.
4. Drizzle tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lentil and Vegetable Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, packed with nutritious lentils and an array of colorful vegetables. Enjoy a warm and satisfying bowl on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Sweet Potato Black Bean Burgers
These sweet potato black bean burgers are a flavorful and nutritious alternative to traditional beef or turkey patties. With the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and the earthy flavor of black beans, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake the sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until soft.
3. Let the sweet potatoes cool, then mash in a bowl.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together black beans, oats, onion, garlic, chili powder, and cumin.
5. Add the mashed sweet potatoes to the bean mixture and stir until combined.
6. Form into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
7. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
8. Cook the burgers for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (sweet potatoes) + 10-12 minutes (burgers)
Avocado Egg Salad Sandwich
A creamy twist on classic egg salad, this sandwich combines the richness of avocado with the comfort of a perfectly boiled egg. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs, hard-boiled and diced
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of bread (whole wheat or white)
– Lettuce leaves and tomato slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine diced eggs, mashed avocado, chopped red onion, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Lay out the slices of bread on a flat surface.
3. Spoon the egg salad mixture onto two slices of bread.
4. Top with lettuce leaves and tomato slices if desired.
5. Place the remaining slices of bread on top to complete the sandwiches.
6. Cut in half and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Light Chocolate Banana Bread
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the richness of light chocolate chips, resulting in a moist and delicious loaf that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, applesauce, brown sugar, and egg. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Summary
Get healthy and delicious with these 20 Weight Watchers-approved recipes! From savory dishes like Low-Point Turkey Chili and Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Tilapia, to sweet treats like Healthy Banana Oat Pancakes, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy lightened-up versions of classics like Mac and Cheese and Taco Soup, or try new twists on old favorites like Zucchini Noodles with Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Sweet Potato Black Bean Burgers. With a range of options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks, you’ll be well on your way to a healthier you.
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