Healthy Dinner Recipes for Two That Taste Amazing
When it comes to cooking dinner for two, it’s essential to have a variety of healthy and delicious options. Not only will these meals save you time and money, but they’ll also fuel your body with essential nutrients. Cooking for two doesn’t have to mean sacrificing taste, as you’ll discover in this article. Each of the eight recipes below can be made for a romantic night in, a special occasion, or simply because you’re in the mood for something new.
In this article, we’ll explore some fantastic dinner recipes that cater to different tastes and dietary needs. From classic grilled chicken to flavorful vegetable dishes, we’ve got you covered. These recipes are easy to follow, and the ingredient lists are straightforward, making it simple for anyone to cook a nutritious meal. You’ll find inspiration for your next dinner date or a quick weeknight meal, and the best part is that they’re all made for two.
Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken
The Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken is a simple yet impressive recipe that’s sure to please. This dish is perfect for a romantic evening in, as it’s light, refreshing, and full of flavor. The lemon and garlic combination adds a touch of elegance, while the chicken stays juicy and tender.
Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instruction
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. Brush the mixture onto both sides of the chicken. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve with parsley and lemon wedges on the side.
Quinoa Veggie Stir-Fry
This Quinoa Veggie Stir-Fry is a vibrant and healthy dish that’s packed with nutrients. Quinoa is an excellent source of protein, fiber, and iron, while the mixed vegetables add a pop of color and variety. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, etc.)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chopped herbs (optional)
Instruction
Cook the quinoa according to package instructions. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they’re tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour the sauce over the vegetables and stir to combine. Serve the vegetables over quinoa and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Baked Salmon with Herbs
Baked Salmon with Herbs is a delightful and easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for a romantic evening in. Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health and brain function. This recipe adds a touch of elegance with the fresh herbs, making it a great option for special occasions.
Ingredients
– 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instruction
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon slices, parsley, dill, and garlic. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and brush the herb mixture evenly over both fillets. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto is a delicious and refreshing recipe that’s perfect for a summer evening. This dish is light and easy to make, and the pesto adds a rich and flavorful twist. You can use store-bought or homemade pesto, making it a convenient option for meal prep.
Ingredients
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup pesto
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instruction
Using a spiralizer or a vegetable peeler, create zucchini noodles. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the zucchini noodles and cook until they’re tender, about 3-4 minutes. In a small bowl, mix together pesto, cherry tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and basil. Toss the cooked zucchini noodles with the pesto mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Chickpea & Spinach Skillet
The Chickpea & Spinach Skillet is a hearty and nutritious recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight meal. This dish is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it an excellent option for a healthy dinner. You can serve it with rice, naan, or as a standalone meal.
Ingredients
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instruction
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Add the chickpeas and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the spinach leaves and cook until they’re wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in cumin, salt, and pepper to taste. If desired, add a tablespoon of lemon juice for extra flavor. Serve hot and enjoy.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
The Stuffed Bell Peppers are a colorful and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for a special occasion or a family dinner. This dish is packed with nutrients and flavors, making it a great option for a healthy meal. You can use any color bell peppers you prefer, and feel free to customize the filling to your taste.
Ingredients
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 cup black beans, cooked
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instruction
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops of the bell peppers off and remove the seeds and membranes. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. In a small bowl, mix together cooked rice, black beans, and shredded cheese. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture and place them in a baking dish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the bell peppers are tender.
Lentil Vegetable Soup
Lentil Vegetable Soup is a hearty and comforting recipe that’s perfect for a cold winter evening. This dish is packed with nutrients and fiber, making it an excellent option for a healthy meal. You can customize the soup to your taste by adding your favorite vegetables and spices.
Ingredients
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, chopped
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instruction
In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and garlic in a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until the onion is translucent. Add the chopped carrots and potatoes and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy.
Avocado & Bean Power Bowl
The Avocado & Bean Power Bowl is a nutritious and delicious recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal. This dish is packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it an excellent option for a healthy dinner. You can customize the bowl to your taste by adding your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium avocados, diced
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 small red onion, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro, sliced almonds, and shredded cheese
Instruction
In a large bowl, combine the black beans, diced avocado, cooked quinoa, and red onion. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil and lime juice. Pour the dressing over the top of the bowl and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy. If desired, top with chopped cilantro, sliced almonds, and shredded cheese for added flavor and texture.
