When it comes to meal planning on a tight budget, it can be challenging to find recipes that are not only delicious but also align with your dietary goals. As a busy individual, you want meals that can be prepared quickly, without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. That’s why we’ve curated 17 mouth-watering Weight Watchers recipes that fit the bill – all for under $5 per serving! From slow cooker staples to quick and easy stir-fries, these recipes are perfect for busy days when you need a healthy meal in no time.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 17 Weight Watchers recipes that will become your new go-to’s. With ingredients like lean protein, whole grains, and plenty of veggies, these dishes are not only tasty but also nutritious. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying breakfast or a hearty dinner, we’ve got you covered with these budget-friendly and Weight Watchers-approved recipes.
Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos
This recipe is perfect for a busy day when you want a flavorful and satisfying meal without much fuss. Simply place all the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it do the work while you’re away.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– 6-8 tacos shells
– Shredded cheese, sour cream, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts, diced tomatoes with green chilies, taco seasoning, onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño in a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Shred the chicken with two forks and stir to combine with the sauce.
4. Warm tacos shells according to package instructions.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning the chicken mixture into shells and topping with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Black Bean and Corn Salad
This vibrant salad combines the natural sweetness of corn with the earthy flavor of black beans, all wrapped up in a zesty dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or as a side dish for your next BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn kernels, and red bell pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, and cumin.
3. Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Instant Pot Lentil Soup
This recipe makes a deliciously comforting lentil soup with minimal effort. With the Instant Pot, you can have this nutritious meal ready in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, water, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 20 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Open the lid and serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (including pressure release)
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
This recipe takes the traditional chicken salad to new heights by incorporating creamy Greek yogurt and a hint of Mediterranean flair. Perfect for a light lunch or as a snack, this Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, Greek yogurt, red onion, cucumber, and feta cheese (if using). Mix until well combined.
2. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped parsley or dill.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick, easy, and ready in just a few minutes.
Zucchini Noodles with Marinara
Get ready to upgrade your pasta game with this simple and flavorful recipe that uses zucchini noodles instead of traditional spaghetti! This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the zucchini noodles and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they start to soften.
5. Pour in the marinara sauce and stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender.
8. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Egg White Veggie Omelet
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious egg white omelet packed with colorful vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 small bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the egg whites until frothy.
2. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the diced bell pepper, thinly sliced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables in the skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the edges start to set.
6. Use a spatula to gently fold the omelet in half.
7. Cook for an additional minute and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 8-10 minutes
Turkey and Veggie Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that combines juicy turkey with a variety of colorful vegetables. Perfect as a main dish or as a healthy addition to your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Remove the turkey from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook until they start to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Return the turkey to the skillet and stir in soy sauce.
7. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the turkey is cooked through.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cabbage Soup with Lean Ground Turkey
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of cabbage soup with the lean protein of ground turkey, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal option. With minimal prep time and easy cooking instructions, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground turkey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chopped cabbage (fresh or frozen)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add turkey and cook until browned, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Stir in cabbage, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries: A Delicious Twist on Classic Fries
Get ready to revolutionize your snack game with this easy and mouthwatering Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries recipe. This sweet twist on classic fries is a perfect combination of crispy outside and fluffy inside, with a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into long, thin strips.
3. Place the sweet potato fries in a bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Toss to coat evenly.
4. Load the Air Fryer basket with the sweet potato fries in a single layer, leaving some space between each fry.
5. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through. Repeat if necessary until desired crispiness is reached.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Quinoa and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This flavorful stir-fry is a great way to get your daily dose of protein, fiber, and vitamins. With quinoa as the base, this dish is perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or stir-fry sauce for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrot. Stir-fry for 5 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add broccoli florets and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
5. Combine cooked quinoa with the vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Skinny Turkey Meatballs
Say goodbye to heavy meatballs and hello to a lighter, leaner version that’s just as flavorful! These Skinny Turkey Meatballs are made with ground turkey, whole wheat breadcrumbs, and a hint of Italian seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
– 1 egg white
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, whole wheat breadcrumbs, egg white, olive oil, onion, garlic, and oregano. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cauliflower Rice Bowls with Shrimp
Transform cauliflower into a delicious “rice” substitute and pair it with succulent shrimp in this quick and flavorful recipe. Perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce (or to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or diced bell peppers for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove leaves and stem. Pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook, stirring occasionally, until pink and cooked through (about 2-3 minutes per side).
5. In a separate pan, add cauliflower “rice” and cook, stirring frequently, for about 5 minutes or until tender.
6. Combine cooked shrimp with cauliflower rice. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot in bowls and garnish with your choice of green onions, sesame seeds, or diced bell peppers.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Spicy Chickpea and Spinach Stew
This hearty stew combines the creamy richness of chickpeas with the spicy kick of red pepper flakes and the earthy sweetness of spinach. Perfect for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and spinach. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the stew to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Lemon Pepper Tilapia
This recipe brings together the flavors of lemon and pepper to create a moist and flavorful tilapia dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp lemon pepper seasoning
– Salt 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 tilapia fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, black pepper, and lemon pepper seasoning.
5. Brush the mixture evenly over both sides of the tilapia fillets.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mushroom and Spinach Frittata
A flavorful and nutritious breakfast or brunch option that combines sautéed mushrooms and spinach with eggs and cheese. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat cooking spray or oil over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt. Pour eggs over mushroom and spinach mixture in the skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until edges start to set.
6. Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top.
7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until eggs are fully set and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Skinny Slow Cooker Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili recipe that’s perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, without sacrificing taste for calories!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 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
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup low-sodium beef broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat; drain excess fat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker; add tomato paste, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir in beef broth.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Serve: Enjoy with your favorite toppings, such as avocado, sour cream, or shredded cheese!
Roasted Garlic Hummus with Veggies
Roasted Garlic Hummus with Veggies Recipe
Transform your snack game by combining the creaminess of hummus with the richness of roasted garlic and crunchy veggies!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 cloves of roasted garlic (see note)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Veggies for serving: carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, and pita chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the garlic by wrapping it in foil and baking for 30-40 minutes or until soft.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, salt, and roasted garlic. Blend until smooth.
4. With the blender or food processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil. Continue blending until creamy.
5. Serve the hummus with your favorite veggies for a healthy and delicious snack.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes (including roasting time)
Oatmeal Banana Pancakes
Start your day with a fluffy, flavorful pancake that combines the natural sweetness of bananas and the wholesome goodness of oats. This recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana, mashed
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup milk
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together oats, flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, mix mashed banana, egg, honey, and milk.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Grease a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface.
6. Flip and cook for another minute, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes)
Summary
Discover 17 delicious and healthy Weight Watchers recipes perfect for busy days. From slow cooker meals like Chicken Tacos and Lentil Soup, to quick and easy dishes like Veggie Omelet and Turkey Stir-Fry, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find tasty snacks like Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries and Quinoa Bites. These mouth-watering recipes are not only nutritious but also budget-friendly, making them perfect for a hectic lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, these Weight Watchers recipes have got you covered.
