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

Think you dislike beets? Not after trying this recipe! Roasting brings out the beets' natural sweetness, and the feta offers a nice, salty contrast.

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

The dressing makes the fruit an extra-sweet treat.

Oh, Quesadilla Explosion Salad! How I love you!
I have eaten plenty of these at Chili's and was "Oh so surprised!" to see it listed as #2 on the 10 worst restaurant salads! Number T-O-O! Too much fat, Too many calories, Too many points!

It's a salad! How can it be so bad for you?

Something had to be done! This is my response. I have also created recipes for the various ingredients used in this salad. They are named as they appear in the list of ingredients. Feel free to use them or your own. Beware the nutrition data of this salad will change if you use another version.

Submitted by LILDVA

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

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

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

A quick and delicious smoothie to satisfy that sweet tooth in a healthy way! My kids LOVE these smoothies.

Submitted by RAEBRALOP

Served cold or hot, these tangy yet sweet noodles are rich and tasty.

Stir-fry vegetables with bamboo shoots, shiitake mushrooms, and shirataki noodles - Simple to make and delicious!

Submitted by GLOBALEMPIRE

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

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

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

Submitted by JLPNURSE

These sophisticated popped are stuffed with creamy Gouda cheese, a bit of bacon, and tomatoes.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

A lower fat version of everyone's favorite- prep and bake in less than 25 minutes!

Served cold or hot, these tangy yet sweet noodles are rich and tasty.

These burgers are spiced to perfection. To make them even spicier, you could melt jalapeno soy cheese on each patty and serve topped with salsa.

For a snack or dessert, they're good!

Submitted by FIREFLY75

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

Submitted by VEGGIEKITTY

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

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

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. You can also add shrimp during the last 20 minutes of cooking. If the dish is a little too spicy for the kids, add 1 Tablespoon of plain yogurt to their serving. Serve with a glass of milk and a cucumber salad.

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

Submitted by FANNETASTICFOOD

Try our zesty take on this dinner table tradition.

Chef Meg lowered the fat and calories in this member-submitted recipe, which contains two servings of cooked vegetables per portion!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Great for the fall holidays! Or just for a healthy snack!

Submitted by ANDREWMOM

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

Submitted by PBERGER3

This colorful low-sodium cholesterol-free vegetable baked dish is prepared without any added fat.

I am known for my pancakes, so trust me on this one!

Submitted by AMROZ123

An interesting but tasty dessert, perfect for a cool evening.

This roasted chicken gets its sticky coating from the juices it releases while being baked.

Black Bean Salsa

Submitted by JANAE55

Serve this on top of a bed of brown rice.

This recipe is really easy; it's really more of a process than a recipe. Rice paper wrappers, which are available in the ethnic sections of most larger supermarkets these days, are a great way to wrap your veggies and protein for a quick snack or light lunch.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

There's no need to buy pumpkin pie spice. You can easily make your own at home. And it makes a great hostess gift for any fall event! Feel free to double or triple this recipe!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Refrigerate overnight to let flavors really jazz it up!

Submitted by VALIBABA

Cucumbers give this guacamole a refreshing flavor.

Submitted by COACH_NICOLE

All the taste of a loaded baked potato, in a hearty soup.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

A terrific twist on a classic! The addition of the tofu makes ths soup thicker without the need for milk or cream.

Submitted by HAPPYCAROL

A soup that warms you up on the inside on the cool winter nights.

Submitted by SALDRU

A healthy and filling middle eastern dip! Eat it as an appetizer or snack with some pita. Why buy your hummus ready made from the store, when you can make it yourself?

Submitted by GRANT_ME_WINGS

I can't get enough of this easy recipe; it's ready in 15 minutes!The still-runny egg yolk adds a creaminess to the sauce and perfectly mixes with the spinach.

Submitted by SP_STEPF

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

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

Ditch those packets from the supermarket, and whip up a batch of this simple, tasty taco seasoning!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Main course

Submitted by ANTONIAC1

Submitted by CCULLIGAN

This hearty vegetarian friendly soup is packed with protein, fiber and healthy carbohydrates. I like to serve mine with a warm piece of crusty bread for dipping.

Submitted by MRSDUDLEY

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

Most pasta salads are heavy on the pasta and light on everything else. This version, which can be served warm or cold, includes a hefty portion of vegetables--both spinach and tomatoes.

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

A tempting dish that will delight all who consume it.

Turn leftovers into a tasty movie night meal.

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 is a great slow cooker side dish for backyard barbecues!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

This is a delicious Autumn/Winter soup hearty enough to serve as a meal, yet light enough to accompany one as well.

Submitted by DGDEMERS

Making homemade stock is so easy! It's a third the price of buying it in stores.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

This apple crisp is sweet and simple to prepare, but uses very little added sugar.

Submitted by JLCROMP

A simple, hearty meat-free meal. Pair with a green salad, and dinner is ready.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

A sweet potato casserole so delicious, you won't believe it is vegan and good for you!

Submitted by OHSHEGLOWS

This recipe sings of the fall and early winter harvest. Take advantage of the local farmers market and buy whatever root vegetables they have. I like a bite to the vegetables, so I drizzle a small amount of balsamic vinegar over the vegetables while they are still hot.
This side dish is quite affordable: about 60 cents a serving for the vegetables!

For perfect results try using a V-rack in your roasting pan or roast the turkey on a bed of vegetables. Once the fat from the turkey melts, it falls to the bottom of the roasting pan. When that happens, the bottom quarter of the bird does not roast--it braises in its own juices. The vegetables or V-rack prevents this from happening.

An elegant entree of tuna, bathed in an herb-infused white wine sauce, served on a bed of couscous.

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

Toss the canned cranberry jelly and use this homemade version instead. It's ready in no time, and it's full of healthy fruit!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Try using whole wheat bread for a boost in fiber. You will need to increase the stock to 1 1/4 cups.

Try these light and low-fat personal pies for dessert during the fall. They're a great substitute for pumpkin pie or sweet potato casserole.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Vegetarians deserve silky, rich gravy on Thanksgiving, too. Try serving this decadent version!

Submitted by SP_STEPF

This kid-friendly comfort food is perfect for a weeknight meal. Even better: You can use frozen veggies and leftover chicken.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

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 vegetarian chili can be made on the stove top or in a slow cooker.

Submitted by AEGARRISON

Chef Meg Galvin turned this member-submitted recipe into a hearty entree that's bursting with flavor by reducing the amount of oil used and changing some of the cooking techniques to maximize taste.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Start your day with this hearty vitamin-rich granola.

These cookies get a boost of nutrition from dried cherries, blueberries and cranberries.

Submitted by PHULLER

These meringues are a fun treat when served with low-fat vanilla ice cream and fresh fruit.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Pumpkin is subbed for butter in this lowfat treat! Cranberries and almonds add flavor and nutrition!

Submitted by CMWELLS83

Move over, gingerbread. There's a new favorite treat on the holiday cookie tray!

Submitted by PHULLER

At only 53 calories a piece, these soft cookies are sure to please!

Submitted by COOKINNANCY

Serve these holiday cookies with a cup of tea or lowfat vanilla ice cream.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Classic chocolate chip cookies with slightly modified ingredients to make them healthier, yet just as tasty as the original.

Submitted by GINNYPENNY

You'll never know these cookies are lower in fat! Customize your cookies by using any flavor of "chips" you prefer!

Submitted by PHULLER

Traditional cookies get a tasty twist!

Submitted by PHULLER

This almond shortbread recipe replaces my mom's buttery shortbread. My new and improved version has less than half the calories and fat.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

As simple, sophisticated hors d'oeuvres.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Who can resist thick, creamy decadent cheesecake? Try this low-fat version in the single serving size.

A sweet and crunchy taste for this terrific chicken dish.

Submitted by HEATHER121

Chef Meg's Beef Roast becomes a full dinner, complete with two servings of vegetables.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

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

This an easy, affordable recipe that will impress your guests.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Despite the fact that this is perhaps the girliest guacamole ever, to the men out there, try it. I guarantee you that it is extremely tasty. And, I am going to venture to say that any guy that can explain that he "whipped the avocado into stiff peaks" will impress any girl.

Submitted by DAILYSPARKGUEST

Tapenade is a traditional sauce or condiment from Provence, in the south of France. It adds a punch of flavor for very few calories. You can buy premade tapenade, but you'll spend more money and be consuming more sodium than if you made it at home.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

These bite-size tacos are always a hit in our house! Have some fun with this recipe; try adding chopped chives, avocado, different varieties of beans, or red onions.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Featured in the revised edition of The New American Plate.

Printed with permission from the American Institute for Cancer Research

Using low-fat milk instead of cream lowers the saturated fat content in this hearty summer soup.

This dish is baked and flavored with a Mediterranean-style tomato, onion, and garlic sauce to make it lower in fat and salt.

Using brown rice will give you lasting energy.

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

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

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

Submitted by CARPROTH

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

This quick and easy meal is a hit with kids. If they can't tolerate spicy foods, reduce or omit the sriracha.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

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

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

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

When looking for something stunning to serve at the next spring or summer gathering, try this quick and easy fruit pizza. It makes a delicious, refreshing dessert and a colorful centerpiece.

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

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Use leftover roast beef to make this quick, hearty, healthy soup.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Forget buying packets of seasonings. They're expensive and often full of salt. Save sodium and money by making this easy herb blend. Use it in sauces, soups, stews, on meats... anywhere you want to add Italian flavor without fat or sodium!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

This low-calorie, low-fat version of the classic bbq sandwich will be a new family favorite!

Submitted by INFJMJ

"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

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

A quick and easy pasta dish perfect for any night of the week.

Submitted by LILYANN2

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

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

This classic German stew is made with lean trimmed beef stew meat and cabbage.

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

Submitted by GONZOSTAR

This is a great dessert that's delicious when strawberries are in season.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

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

Submitted by SMOKINGSBADFORU

You'll love these cheesy yet healthy enchiladas!

Submitted by TALESIN

Looking for a simple curry that's flavorful but not too hot? This hearty stew fits the bill.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Fried, battered, dripping sauce--hot wings are calorie bombs! But not these.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

These brownies have a few secret ingredients that boost the nutrition, while the dark cocoa powder and mini chocolate chips keep the rich flavor that you crave in a brownie.

Submitted by SP_STEPF

I love this stew because it can be made from your pantry and freezer. I always keep red potatoes, turkey sausage, and beans on hand. It's great for those nights when you just don't want to brave the cold to go to the supermarket.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Make this chicken the next you have company for dinner, and they'll swear you hired caterers. It tastes like it came from a restaurant, but for much less money and effort.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

In 15 minutes, this easy recipe will take the chill off a cold evening.

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

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

We cut the grease and used reduced-fat string cheese to re-create a pub favorite.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

These cookies are packed full of whole grains and fiber to fill you up and keep you satisfied. They're great for snacks and suitable for those with diabetes!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

I love enchiladas! These are full of vegetables in addition to the cheese and creamy sauce. Each one has a full serving of veggies, plus almost 20% of your daily fiber.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Hummus goes South of the Border!

Submitted by SP_STEPF

This soup is packed with flavor yet low in fat. You can customize it with any vegetables or protein you have on hand.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

This is a great recipe when the garden is overflowing.

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

One bite and you're transported to Louisiana!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

A hot brown is a Southern classic: An open-faced turkey sandwich is topped with a cheesy sauce, bacon and tomatoes. This one's a lot lighter, but you'd never know from the taste.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

This creamy dessert is low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium.

I love a good sandwich, one that's so big you have to smash to fit into your mouth. This one is big on flavor, light on fat!

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

Low fat sloppy joes that don't skimp on flavor!

Submitted by RHG2525

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

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

Submitted by SP_STEPF

This tastes just like cheese pizza, plus you get about 25% of your daily calcium in one meal! Pair this with a salad and you have a great pizzaria style lunch without the calories attached...or the bill.

Submitted by PUNKGIRL213

Korean style marinated bean sprouts

Submitted by REDSTRINGSOUL

Gazpacho is one of my favorite summer meals, and it's no coincidence that it's also one of the easiest to make. It's simply a chilled, usually blended vegetable soup of Spanish origin.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

A quick and easy dinner that is also low-fat.

Submitted by LYZ219

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

Like crab cakes -- but with salmon!

Submitted by JCOOKSON

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

This one-dish meal is great for a weeknight meal or as a appetizer for a party.Serve it with steamed broccoli or a green salad.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

A tasty way to get your veggies during BBQ season

Submitted by EMMAPALE

What a sweet warm treat for a cold afternoon! This dish is like having a piece of apple pie but without the large amount of fat and carbs from the dough. The oats inside will trick your mind into thinking that you did just eat pie!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

A smooth, low-cal, protein rich soup. It's also super quick to make.

Submitted by BARBYCHICAGO

Pizza is one of my favorite foods, and the sweet sauce at Papa John's is my all-time favorite. My viewpoint is, if you're going to make it at home, don't make it "just as good," make it better! So I'm remaking a medium Papa John's pie with pineapple, onion and bacon(BACON!!!). Fresh homemade sauce and premium ingredients make this recipe more than worth the calories, and still trimmer than the fast food original!

Submitted by KRAMTHEGRAM

Try this dip on a toasted whole-wheat bagel at breakfast or with apple slices or whole-grain crackers for a snack. It's even good with carrots.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

This simple summer recipe is good hot or cold. The creamy avocado pairs so well with fresh summer tomatoes.

Submitted by MBH1118

Creamy pudding makes fantastic frozen treats.

A hearty, homecooked meal that everyone will love! Serve with steamed broccoli and sweet corn for a complete vegetarian meal.

Submitted by COACH_NICOLE

These tasty roasted vegetables can be cooked on the grill or roasted in the oven! The pineapple adds a wonderful sweetness to the vegetables. This recipe is easily modified to include your favorite vegetables or spices.

Submitted by HONEYLEA

Quinoa is similar to brown rice, with a higher protein content. This is a delicious side dish or light meal.

Submitted by SLIMKATIE

A lovely egg dish that highlights all the flavors of late spring. This dish can be made ahead of time and served room temperature. Perfect for brunch or even a light lunch!

Submitted by RICKIEBETH

Sweet and nutritious Yojo to restore your mojo! Many thanks to my friend Julie for giving me this recipe.

Submitted by YERVANT

Perfect for your next party--or turn any snack into a festive event!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

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 recipe is part of "The SparkPeople Cookbook." Order your copy today! This salad is even better the longer it sits in the fridge, so we love to make a big batch of it and eat it throughout the week.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

I think that gazpacho is quite the refreshing soup option--especially in the summer. It goes well with a simple sandwich as well as something a little fancier and off the grill. Not only that, but it is actually pretty healthy for you as well--gazpacho is made up of all kinds of different veggies.

Submitted by DAILYSPARKGUEST

These have a great flavor, the perfect amount of sweetness, and a nice, soft texture (be sure to use whole wheat PASTRY flour, not regular whole wheat!). Nutritious, too!

Submitted by FANNETASTICFOOD

These onions add flavor to any dish, from soups and sandwiches to stews and dips.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Cookbook creator says: very low-calorie

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

Submitted by JJAR18

This "Spinach & Avocado Cannellini Bean Hummus" is what would happen if hummus and guacamole mated!

Submitted by FANNETASTICFOOD

Spin on guacamole. Can be used as a dip or a side dish.

Submitted by FORMOSASPAIN

Easy guac and you can't taste or see the broccoli - I added it to keep the calories down.

Submitted by ASHLEYSARAH

This soup is healthy and deliciously flavorful thanks to the curry and creamy coconut milk!

Submitted by FANNETASTICFOOD

A zesty way to prepare a traditional cheesecake.

Sweet summer corn gets a tangy twist.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Panzanella is an Italian salad that can be found on trendy bistro menus in the hot summer months. This salad was invented when times were tough, as a way to use up stale bread.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

This is such a hearty savory soup--and it's vegan! The color alone should win you over. By roasting the vegetables you get a sweet smoky smell and taste.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

This warm creamy soup tastes decadent and heavy, without any extra calories or fat.

Submitted by THEFRONTBURNER

Low-fat cottage cheese is the secret to the dressing in this delicious low fat and saturated fat, low cholesterol, low sodium mixture of vegetables and herbs.

This makes an easy weekend brunch or quick breakfast.

Submitted by NANALINDA5355