Cookbook creator says: suggested by Linda

Submitted by JOJOMKE

This homemade alternative to store-bought granola bars, is a good source of protein, fiber and healthy fats. Tasty and so simple to make! A quarter cup of raisins (not included here) also make a yummy addition!

Submitted by COACH_NICOLE

Submitted by BUGWITCH

Slow cookers aren’t just for meat! This is a tasty, affordable one-pot vegetarian meal that’s filling and perfect for your slow cooker.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Hearty & Healthy Meal Made Convenient

Submitted by FLORANISSEN

Yum! You've probably never had soup like this before, but we bet you'll be coming back for more.

If you've never tried whole wheat pasta, this is the dish that will make you switch to it!

Black beans, sweet potatoes and greens are spiced up and baked in egg roll wrappers to create burritos that are heavy on taste and light on calories. (Feel free to change this recipe with what you've got in the fridge. No sweet potatoes? Try zucchini or butternut squash. Swap kale for spinach, Swiss chard or your favorite green! Instead of black beans, try kidney, pinto or garbanzo beans.)

Submitted by SP_STEPF

A unique tasting fall harvest soup.

Submitted by DONIACPA

Submitted by STOECJ01

Submitted by PSDAHRI

After you've roasted a chicken or turkey don't throw away the bones. They can be used to make homemade, low-sodium stocks, which can add flavor to your healthy, home-cooked meals.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

This is an amazing salsa best made with fresh ingredients.

Submitted by BILLIEBUNNY19

This eggplant "pasta" is nutritious and delicious!

Submitted by ISABELLAMIRAC

Combine black beans with fresh vegetables to make a fiber-rich vegetarian friendly salad.

Everyone will love this simple dish that's full of flavor!

Submitted by SMOKINGSBADFORU

A tasty non-meat way to get some extra protein in your diet.

Submitted by LILLAKE

Technically this is a crustless quiche, but the addition of flour makes for a delicious crusty bottom and sides.

Submitted by JENNLOVE

A healthy version of a classic fall favorite.

A great meal on a cold day!

Submitted by SAUGADREZ

"Vanilla extract" usually isn't made with real vanilla. The good news is that it's really easy--and affordable--to make your own.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Use with a bag of pre-shredded broccoli & cauliflower; makes this recipe super quick.

Submitted by PBERGER3

Soothing and delicious, this soup seems to revive me right from the first spoonful. I find this easiest to cook in a slow cooker and allow to simmer all day

Submitted by GROOVYKARMA1

The versatility of this salsa is limitless! Put it on grilled chicken or steak, add it to eggs, or serve with tortilla chips.

Submitted by METALFINGER2U

Spicy and delicious!

Submitted by FRGIVEN

These bean cakes are yummy and great for you. Served with the salsa, it makes a very colorful and festive presentation. I serve these with a lite side salad. Plenty of protein and fiber. Even my meat loving hubby loves this meal.

Submitted by BCJL13

A dish the whole family will love (especially you, because it is so simple).

Submitted by EMCAZIER

This chili recipe has a unique ingredient, by adding pumpkin (you never know it's there) you add more vitamins and fiber.

Submitted by LONGWAY2GO

Frozen bananas rival soft serve when given a whirl in the food processor. Trust us, it's AMAZING: no fat, no cholesterol, no added sugar, just creamy and sweet bananas!

Submitted by SP_STEPF

Submitted by LUNERENNE

Calcium, protein, and vitamin packed, this quick snack will not leave you hungry.

This protein-rich vegetarian recipe is simple to make and tasty to eat!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

This is a delicious, light, refreshing dessert. It's low cal and sugar and can be made with the lite pie filling in any flavor. Note that this needs to be made the night before to soften the graham crackers.

Submitted by HOCKIMAMA

Quick and easy chicken dish that looks and tastes like you went to a lot of work.

Submitted by CARPROTH

Chef Meg made over a versatile member recipe by adding extra vegetables and reducing the sodium. Serve with a side salad or over whole wheat pasta or brown rice.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

A gingerbread recipe with a healthy twist--the addition of the pumpkin helps to make this treat much more nutritious.

Submitted by KNITTINGKITTY

Low Calorie and High Fiber!

Submitted by PENSKE40

Top this soup with toasted tortilla strips and serve with lime wedges and avocado slices.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

The kale gives this soup a vitamin A kick!

Submitted by TNSHAVER

Sweet and sour pork takes a trip to the islands! Printed with permission from the American Institute for Cancer Research.

Submitted by KATYDID!

Those who know me well will say that I am not a snob--except for when it comes to icing. I want the real stuff! To me cakes are ruined with fake whippy icings made with shortening.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

This quick and healthy snack takes minutes to prepare! And as a bonus, it's an easy way to get the kids to eat their vegetables.

Submitted by MATCM81

A low sodium, low fat version of this classic soup.

Submitted by CAAM76

My favorite Mexican restaurant serves a guacamole that's heavy on vegetables--and flavor. To slim it down even more, serve with carrots, celery and cucumber slices.

Submitted by SP_STEPF

Quick, delicious and nutritious

Submitted by JUDICSKA

A spicy twist to an all-American classic.

Submitted by BHUEB78

Popcorn makes a great snack, but can be a little mundane. Chili, garlic, and cumin give this popcorn a kick!

Light & luscious, just right for your appetite.

These are SUPER easy, quick, and amazing – perfect for snacking on the go.

Submitted by FANNETASTICFOOD

I never get tired of this salad--it is that good! Add your favorite dressing, such as balsamic vinaigrette and enjoy this large and filling salad as a summer meal.

Submitted by COACH_NICOLE

A quick and hearty soup with plenty of spice!

Submitted by SP_STEPF

Tasty and Nutritious

Submitted by FLYAWAYFREE

An experiment with leftovers yields a delightful, filling vegetarian meal.

Submitted by SP_STEPF

With this dish you get a serving of fruit in every portion. Dice the orange if you prefer smaller pieces and�if you�re feeling creative�use a vegetable peeler to create curls of orange zest.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

This is a great meal for a busy night--for some added fun, leave the forks in the cabinet and bring out the chopsticks!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

This soups works well with most vegetables from the garden-- experiment and use vegetables that are in season. Chef Meg was inspired to create this meal after a trip to the farmers market. Be creative and use whatever vegetables you have on hand!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Orange and grapefruit add flavor and vitamin-C to this fiber rich bean salad.

Hummus goes South of the Border!

Submitted by SP_STEPF

"This recipe was wonderful! Probably one of the best I have tested!" Chef Meg really didn't have to change this recipe very much. It certainly gets her stamp of approval though! She did increase the serving size.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Ready in just 20 minutes.

A slimmed-down version of sesame chicken from PF Chang's and other Chinese restaurants.

Submitted by PISCESWOMAN87

This is a recipe that sounds (and tastes) fancy but is actually quite easy to make--and ready in just 15 minutes.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

A very filling soup that will warm you up on a cold winter day.

Submitted by BRENDA74

This is THE most popular recipe on SparkRecipes. We've added more vegetables and reduced the sodium drastically to make it even better.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Tomato juice, lemons, and mushrooms flavor this chicken recipe the lower salt and lower fat way.

Cheesy, rich, delicious--just what you expect in macaroni and cheese. What you won't expect? 2/3 the fat and half the calories of the original!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Buck tradition this Thanksgiving and forgo standard pumpkin pie. Instead, whip up a smooth, spicy and low-calorie flan.

Submitted by DISTENDASI

Make this ahead of time and then refrigerate for a quick, protein-packed breakfast that's also portion-controlled. Top with salsa (optional) and serve with toast for a complete breakfast.

Submitted by COACH_NICOLE

This chili is packed with flavor and fiber. Make a big batch for a crowd or freeze it in single-serving containers for up to 4 months.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Fruit is often a back-up ingredient or side dish at dinnertime, but it gets a co-starring role in this meal.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

This dish inspired by Costa Rican spices seems exotic, but it uses spices and ingredients you already have around the house: coffee, cocoa and cinnamon. You'll wonder why you've been relegating these flavorings to dessert!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Lean and versatile, this recipe is the little black dress of your healthy recipe arsenal. Cook this roast on a Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week. We used no salt, just pepper for a truly flavorful roast.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

I love this spread this over whole wheat toast for breakfast with nut butter or to thicken my fall soups. My son Josh loves it with bananas. You won't believe I didn't add any sugar!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

A great chili that is perfect with cornbread muffins.

Submitted by SUZIEQW

Use as a dip for veggies or a spread on pita and sandwiches.

Submitted by COACH_NICOLE

A delicious breakfast you can make either sweet or savory, that keeps you full all morning (at least)!

Submitted by RACHEL_MAC

Tastes like yummy thin crust pizza!

Submitted by ANDRALA

Want to know the secret to great chili? Start with great spices--and skip the packets at the supermarket, which are full of sugar and salt. Make your own to save money and skip the salt.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

The perfect soup to warm your belly on a cold night or soothe you when you're sick.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

My kids never complain about eating both beans and greens in one meal when they're served alongside rich, slow-cooked pork.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Submitted by SHELLYSSTITCHIN

Lemony coriander and smoky cumin pair perfectly with sharp Cheddar in this grown-up spin on scalloped potatoes.

Submitted by SP_STEPF

This is a great recipe to use as a basis for plenty of meals!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Try this inexpensive and fresh version of a chicken casserole--no need for processed soups or sauces!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

This quick Southern dish contains no added fat and very little added salt in its spicy tomato sauce.

This meal tastes of springtime, and it's light enough that it fits into a heart-healthy diet.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Make these rolls at night and pop them in the microwave (about 20 seconds) or toaster oven (on low) until warm. Pair them with a banana or apple, a peeled hard-boiled egg, and a cup of milk, and breakfast is ready to go in two minutes flat!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Love your breakfast sausage but can't handle all the sodium? Try this lower sodium version: 25% less fat, and 1/10th of the sodium.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

An Italian favorite gets a below the border twist. Chef Meg made just a few tweaks before giving this one her seal of approval! She adds the spices early in cooking to help boost flavor and added a full pound of turkey for a more filling meal.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

This is a really filling soup that's easy to make. Each serving is a hearty 2 cups!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

4 ingredients, 5 minutes of prep time--and no mess to clean up!

Submitted by 3BOYZ2FEED

This light recipe is great for lunch, supper, or both. It serves eight, so cook once and eat twice!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Save money and time with this Chinese food makeover.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Submitted by LORIJAXON

Submitted by BINGOSMOM

A much quicker version of the Italian classic; less time, but no less taste.

Submitted by VEGGIEKITTY

Tasty and good for you!

Submitted by CHELLESHOCKED

It looks like jam, but it's bursting with whole fruit and thick enough to eat with a fork. Serve over pork roast, on top of yogurt or cottage cheese, or on your morning toast.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Use this spice blend on any grilled meat or fish: try pork, steak, shrimp, or even salmon! You will want to make a big batch of the spice rub to always have some on hand.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Try using an English Cut Beef Roast. It is economical and flavorful. This cut of meat comes from the shoulder or neck area of the animal.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

A refreshing alternative to tuna salad. Pair with tomatoes and cucumber for a light lunch.

Submitted by JLPNURSE

High in calcium and very yummy

Submitted by TWINMOM143

These healthful muffins freeze well! Low-fat buttermilk and applesauce help lower the fat in these, and the whole-wheat flour and flax seed add fiber.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Chewy, homemade flatbread makes any meal seem special. Use in place of pitas, bread, or crackers!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

This is a great recipe for summer, when you have a surplus of zucchini in the garden. Double or triple the batch and freeze them for quick and healthy breakfasts.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Sweet and tangy, this chicken takes less than five minutes to prep!

Submitted by LAUR986

Did you know that just three buffalo wings have 10 grams of fat? (Who eats just three?) This soup has all the spice, creaminess, and tang you crave--with a fraction of the fat.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Kid prepared and approved! I am always looking for a salad that my kids can make and then devour. This is a winner for kids and moms.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Even kale needs some love. Massaging an acid-based dressing into the fibrous green leaves tenderizes them, making the healthy vegetable more palatable in its raw form.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

This tomato soup is so rich and thick you'll swear it's laden with cream and butter. The trick is really good tomatoes.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

This sauce is great on grilled meats, and it makes enough for two meals. Try it on cooked pasta or roasted vegetables.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

While Chicken Parmesan is traditionally fried, this lighter version is delightful atop a hearty green salad.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

This is a great basic to always have on hand! Instead of spending money on expensive, oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, make your own.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

This is a recipe i put together last night with the veggies I had in the fridge and my husband and daughter LOVED it. Very yummy over ride pilaf or couscous. You can add chicken or fish to make this a non-veggie meal

Submitted by VEGGIEDOC4LIFE

Garlic lovers, rejoice! This recipe contains a whopping two heads, but the flavor mellows and sweetens when baked.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Very fiber-full recipe!!

Submitted by TONIBALOGNA_11

For a snack or dessert, they're good!

Submitted by FIREFLY75

Skip the drive-through and serve these instead. Split one open, pop in an egg cooked your way and even some shredded cheese. Make a batch on the weekend and keep handy for hungry teenage boys (and their parents)!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Full of fruit, fiber, and protein, and it's YUMMY, too!

Submitted by KARENMON

With "The SparkPeople Cookbook," desserts and treats are part of the plan. Chef Meg slims down favorite sweets, ditching most of the fat and calories--but keeping the flavor. This is a "must-try" recipe!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

I love to increase the nutrition of baked goods by adding whole grains. That's the secret to these pecan tarts.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Ditch the condensed "cream of whatever" soups and make this instead. You only need 10 minutes of hands-on cooking time for a filling yet light bowl of comforting soup.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Garlic is good for more than keeping away vampires. It's also quite good for you and full of flavor. Roasting garlic mellows its flavor and gives it a creamy texture.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

What a great dish for one of those nights when your kids have a late soccer game! Brown the meat, layer in the ingredients, set your slow cooker on low, and go! From "The SparkPeople Cookbook: Love Your Food, Lose the Weight."

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Tostada means toasted in Spanish, and in this simple recipe, Chef Meg makes a crunchy, crispy, chewy, cheesy tostada using leftovers from her Slow Cooker Provencal Chicken and Beans dish.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

No forks needed! These sweet, crunchy and buttery hand pies will have you licking your fingers.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Whole wheat bread gives this side staying power. The fruits and vegetables bulk up the dish, so a little goes a long way. A bit of turkey bacon adds another layer of flavor without adding many calories.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Pair onions and sweet potatoes with tangy blue cheese and crunchy walnuts for a stand-out side dish.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Submitted by KAMILAHH

Try a two for one: The next time you are turning on the oven to 375 degrees, roast the squash, cool it slightly, peel and package to freeze. You'll have butternut squash on hand whenever you need it, and you can have dinner on the table in no time!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Delicious Sweet Potato recipe that is on the savory side - no sweets added here.

Submitted by JASB18

Threw this together today.

Submitted by AGRANDEMANGE

My own adaptation of a bread recipe without using oil.

Submitted by TERRIJ7

Banana and oatmeal are a perfect pair in these not-too-sweet treats.

This is a wholesome chewy cookie that satisfies the sweet tooth, but isn't just empty calories--it's a great way to incorporate whole grains. Substitute a multi-grain mix for added nutrition and fiber. Add mini chocolate chips, raisins, nuts, or coconut for variation.

Submitted by LIVE_TO_LOVE

This make-ahead breakfast is perfect for busy mornings or Sunday brunches. And it has half the calories and 1/3 the fat of the original.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Ditch the toaster pastry. They're loaded with sugar and fat--and not much else. My hand tarts are full of fruit, and if you make them ahead of time your kids can grab them and go.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

This slimmed down version of your favorite dip is easy to make--and it's light enough for you to load up on it!

Submitted by SP_STEPF

Other veggies, like broccoli, corn or peas would make a great addition to this easy meal. Make any substitutions to fit your family's taste.

Submitted by GVMEMOMENT

This creamy, delicious soup will become your new favorite comfort food.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Easy to make vegetarian--just leave out the chicken!

Submitted by DIANNEMT

There is room for red meat in a healthy lifestyle. The key is choosing lean cuts and healthful cooking methods.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Brown rice that's ready when you are--and packed with flavor

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Just as the title says, it's fool proof, and yummy!

Submitted by LILDINI

A great combination of meat, vegetables and whole grains for a great healthy comfort food.

Submitted by ANEW50

A double-hitter: Each portion has almost two servings of vegetables.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Ditch the crust and boost your veggie intake with these eggplant "pizzas."

Submitted by GONZOSTAR

All the flavor of tacos, with far fewer dishes to wash! (And dinner will be ready in just 20 minutes.)

Submitted by SPARK_RECIPES

This homemade soup is ready in 20 minutes but tastes like it cooked all day. We won't tell if you don't!

Submitted by SPARK_RECIPES

Slim-fried Cabbage with garlic, onion, & red pepper flakes

Submitted by NEP2NFLY

Use this to dress your salad or as a dipping sauce for cut vegetables. Don't like cilantro? No problem, just swap it out for Italian parsley or dill.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Delicious and quick, this recipe is a great way to get more fish into your healthy meal plan!

Submitted by RACHIELOO

I started making these for my children when they were very young (and wanted to know what exactly I was putting in their mouths). Now they are a family favorite and a working mom's delight.

They have more calories than frozen waffles, but they are packed with good nutrition and keep you full until noon.These are great when made ahead of time. They are very dense pancakes and because they are so dense you can pop them into the toaster to warm up like an eggo. Simply wait until they cool and freeze them or seal them in a container for the fridge. They last about a week in the fridge.

I use oat milk because I am a vegetarian and want more protein than soy or rice milk can provide. However, I have used all the milks (including dairy) and they work fine. The calorie calculation is done with oat milk and brown sugar included in the recipe. Values will change depending on the milk you use and if you add the brown sugar or not.

Serving Ideas: Serve with fresh fruit or sugar free maple syrup.

Submitted by PAISANS

These sautéed pork chops with a curried pan sauce make a quick weeknight dinner.

This flavorful recipe is a great way to get extra fiber. Enjoy it for breakfast, dessert or a sweet snack.

Submitted by SPARK_RECIPES

This Asian-inspired pasta dish is so good and so quick to make and can be served hot or cold. Add some tofu for another healthy option.

Submitted by BCJL13

Turn healthy staples into a quick weeknight dinner for one.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG