17 Easy Light Dinners When You Want Something Simple

Sometimes dinner calls for something a little lighter and simpler. After a weekend of heavier meals or busy schedules, lighter suppers can help the evening feel calm and refreshed. These recipes focus on balanced plates, fresh ingredients, and meals that satisfy without feeling overly heavy. Many come together quickly, which makes them especially helpful on evenings when you want dinner handled without a lot of fuss. They are the kind of meals that leave you feeling comfortable instead of overly full. From bright salads to simple seafood and lighter skillet dishes, these suppers are easy ways to reset the week.

Arby’s Pecan Chicken Salad Sandwich

Tender chicken salad with pecans, grapes, and celery served on soft bread recreates the classic Arby’s sandwich at home.
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Saltgrass Steakhouse Shrimp and Avocado Salsa

Boiled shrimp tossed with creamy avocado, lime, and fresh vegetables creates a light appetizer inspired by Saltgrass Steakhouse.
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Crustless Pizza Bowls

Baked bowls of pasta sauce, melted mozzarella, and pizza toppings deliver classic pizza flavor in an easy family dinner.
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Grilled Salmon in Foil

Salmon fillets wrapped in foil with simple seasoning grill gently until tender and flaky, creating a moist and flavorful seafood dinner.
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PF Chang’s Lettuce Wraps Copycat

Ground chicken cooked with savory Asian seasonings and served in crisp lettuce leaves recreates the popular PF Chang’s appetizer.
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Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

Grilled chicken served over crisp romaine with creamy Caesar dressing and Parmesan creates a satisfying main dish salad.
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Shrimp and Vegetable Stir Fry

Shrimp and fresh vegetables stir-fried in a light savory sauce create a quick and flavorful dinner ready in about 30 minutes.
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La Madeleine Tomato Basil Soup

Creamy tomato soup with basil recreates the comforting La Madeleine café favorite.
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Greek Salad with Watermelon and Feta

Juicy watermelon, cucumber, feta, and herbs combine in a refreshing Greek-inspired salad with sweet and savory flavor.
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Taco Salad Bowls

Seasoned beef, beans, rice, and fresh toppings layered in bowls create a customizable taco salad for an easy weeknight meal.
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Thai Basil Chicken Skewers

Chicken skewers seasoned with Thai basil and spices are grilled and served with a flavorful cashew sauce.
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Lemon Mustard Chickpea Salad

Chickpeas tossed with lemon mustard vinaigrette create a quick and satisfying salad for lunches or light meals.
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Parmesan Panko Crusted Baked Cod

Tender cod fillets coated with Parmesan and panko breadcrumbs bake to a crisp golden crust while staying flaky and moist.
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Thai Fried Rice with Chicken and Vegetables

Fried rice with chicken, vegetables, and Thai seasonings creates a flavorful skillet meal inspired by classic takeout.
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Honey Balsamic Caprese Chicken Bake

Chicken baked with tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella in a honey balsamic glaze creates a flavorful Caprese-inspired dinner.
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Cucumber Tuna Salad

Crisp cucumbers mixed with tuna, dill, and creamy dressing create a refreshing salad for light lunches or quick meals.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Tuna Salad

Thai Chicken Zucchini Noodles

Chicken and zucchini noodles tossed in creamy peanut sauce create a lighter Thai-inspired dinner with fresh flavor.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Zucchini Noodles