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Posted by u/gymratbutchill·

Looking for high-volume, low-cal dinner ideas, anyone got recipes?

TL;DR: Looking for high-volume, low-cal dinner recipes that are also high in protein.

Been lifting for a while and trying to keep things lean, but I need some solid dinner recipes that are high in volume but low in calories. Like, I wanna fill my plate without feeling guilty about it. If you've got any go-to meals that fit this vibe, hit me up!

Here's what I'm thinking for dinner:

  • Lots of veggies (zucchini, spinach, broccoli)
  • Lean proteins (chicken breast, turkey, tofu)
  • Maybe some low-cal sauces or spices to amp up the flavor

I'm all about that high-protein life too, so if you've got macros on deck, even better! What ya got?

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u/macro_master98·

If you're tracking macros, don't forget about legumes! Lentils are low-cal and super filling. You can make a lentil salad with spinach and cherry tomatoes, drizzle with balsamic vinegar, and u have a nutritious dinner. Just about 200 calories per serving with 18g protein!

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u/dadbod_to_abs·

Based. Meal prep is key! I usually cook a big batch of chicken breast and then add it to different veggie bowls throughout the week. Just change the spices or sauces, and it feels like a whole new meal!

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u/caffeine_craze·

Ngl, I'm a little skeptical about those low-cal sauces. I once tried one that tasted like cardboard. Sometimes, I think it's better to just go for a small amount of a regular sauce you love. But hey, what do I know?

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u/crossfit_cook·

You can't go wrong with a veggie stir-fry! Just toss in your favorite veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and broccoli. Add some lean protein, like chicken or tofu, and a splash of low-sodium soy sauce or sriracha for flavor. It's super filling and low-cal!

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u/bro_split_noob·

I was thinking about doing a stir-fry too! But do you think frozen veggies are just as good? Like, do they have the same nutrients?

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u/keto_bro_2022·

Frozen veggies are actually great! They're often frozen at peak freshness, so they retain their nutrients pretty well. Just watch for sauces or added sugars, if you're going that route. I use frozen spinach in my omelets all the time.

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u/strong_momma·

I'm all about those zucchini noodles too! My kids even love them when I mix in some marinara sauce. It's nice to have a dinner that feels like a treat but is still good for you. Plus, you can sneak in extra veggies without them noticing!

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u/cardio_kiddo·

this! Zoodles are life! I made a batch the other day and couldn't even finish them all. I also add some shrimp for extra protein, and it's bomb.

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u/calisthenics_queen·

Just make sure you're not skimping on protein. i used to just focus on volume and forgot how important protein is for recovery. You could even throw in some cottage cheese with your meals for extra protein, just make sure it fits your macros!

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u/gymratbutchill·

Facts! Lentils are underrated. I sometimes make a big batch and have them throughout the week. It really saves time when you're busy lifting!

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u/bulk_and_bowl·

Skill issue. But seriously, if you want to bulk without a ton of calories, just throw some quinoa in your meals. It's high in protein and volume! I eat it with just about everything.

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u/vegan_ironman·

Honestly, I feel you on the sauce thing. If you're going for flavor, try nutritional yeast! It adds a cheesy flavor without the calories. I mix it with some veggies and a little olive oil and it's a game-changer.

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u/creatine_ninja·

Quinoa is cool but don't sleep on brown rice! It's versatile and can be used in so many dishes, plus it's super filling. I usually cook a big pot and use it throughout the week, mixing it into stir-fries or salads. Plus, it's a great source of fiber.

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u/marathon_ninja·

If you're looking for high-volume meals, have you tried zucchini noodles? They're super low in calories and you can load them with sauces or lean meats. I usually make a turkey bolognese, and it feels like a cheat meal without all the calories. If you throw in some mushrooms, it ups the volume even more!

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u/midwest_muscle·

You gotta be careful with sauces though, some are just packed with sugar. If you're looking for low-cal options, try making your own. A simple mix of mustard, vinegar, and herbs can really spice things up without the calories!

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