Eating healthy doesn’t have to mean hours in the kitchen or bland, boring meals. Sometimes, the simplest dishes are the most satisfying, and this Healthy Dinner Recipe for Weight Loss is one of my go-to favorites. It’s light yet filling, colorful, and full of natural flavors that make you feel good inside and out.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick, nourishing, and waistline-friendly. It’s packed with fiber from the couscous and greens, protein from the yogurt, and sweetness from roasted butternut squash and cranberries. The best part? You can make it in under 30 minutes with just a handful of ingredients.
How to Make Healthy Dinner Recipes for Weight Loss
Ingredients:
1 cup butternut squash, cubed
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup cooked whole wheat couscous
2 cups mixed greens
1 tbsp dried cranberries
1 tbsp chopped walnuts (optional)
1/4 cup Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt (for dipping)
Directions:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20–25 minutes until tender.
Prepare couscous according to package directions and fluff with a fork.
In a bowl, combine mixed greens with cranberries and walnuts.
Assemble your bowl: start with couscous, add roasted squash, top with greens, and finish with a dollop of yogurt.
Drizzle with a light vinaigrette or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
How to Serve Healthy Dinner Recipes for Weight Loss
Serve this dish warm as a nourishing dinner bowl, or pack it up for a quick, wholesome lunch. It pairs beautifully with a side of grilled chicken or salmon if you’d like extra protein.
How to Store Healthy Dinner Recipes for Weight Loss
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best texture, store the couscous, roasted squash, and greens separately and assemble when ready to eat.
Tips to Make Healthy Dinner Recipes for Weight Loss
Roast ahead: You can roast the butternut squash in advance to save time.
Freshness matters: Use fresh mixed greens for the best crunch and flavor.
Flavor boost: Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of feta for extra depth.
Protein power: Pair with chickpeas or grilled shrimp to make it more filling.
Healthy Dinner Recipe for Weight Loss
A light yet filling dinner bowl made with roasted butternut squash, whole wheat couscous, mixed greens, and tangy yogurt. Quick to prepare, colorful, and naturally nourishing — perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20–25 minutes until tender.
- Prepare couscous according to package directions and fluff with a fork.
- In a bowl, combine mixed greens with cranberries and walnuts.
- Assemble your bowl: start with couscous, add roasted squash, top with greens, and finish with a dollop of yogurt.
- Drizzle with a light vinaigrette or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
Notes
Serve warm as a wholesome dinner bowl or pack for a healthy lunch. Store leftovers up to 3 days, but keep couscous, squash, and greens separate for best freshness. For variations, try quinoa instead of couscous, swap walnuts for pumpkin seeds, or add a spicy kick with chili flakes. Meal-prep friendly and easily made vegan by using dairy-free yogurt.
Variations
Gluten-free option: Swap couscous with quinoa or brown rice.
Nut-free option: Skip the walnuts and add pumpkin seeds instead.
Spicy twist: Sprinkle chili flakes over the roasted squash.
Mediterranean style: Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a touch of olive tapenade.
FAQs
Q: Can I meal-prep this recipe?
Yes! Roast the squash and cook the couscous ahead of time, then store them separately. Assemble when you’re ready to eat.
Q: Can I make this vegan?
Absolutely. Just swap Greek yogurt for a dairy-free alternative and you’ll have a completely plant-based meal.
Q: What other veggies can I use?
Sweet potatoes, zucchini, or roasted carrots would all be delicious substitutions for the butternut squash.