7 Low-Calorie Greek Recipes That You’ll Love!

The Mediterranean diet, which forms the foundation of Greek cooking, has many health benefits, including promoting heart health, reducing inflammation, and aiding in weight management. If you’re looking to enjoy the flavors of Greece without overindulging in calories, you’re in for a treat.

In this article, we’ll explore seven low-calorie Greek recipes that will satisfy your cravings while keeping your calorie intake in check.

These recipes include fresh salads, flavorful grilled meats, hearty soups, and light desserts — all made with ingredients that are as good for your body as they are for your taste buds.

1. Greek Chicken Souvlaki Salad (Souvlaki Salata)

For a delicious and low-calorie option, the Greek Chicken Souvlaki Salad combines the flavors of grilled chicken souvlaki with fresh vegetables, offering a satisfying, balanced meal. It is a great alternative to the more famous Greek Salad (Xoriatiki Salata).

This dish is loaded with lean protein from the chicken, healthy fats from olive oil, and tons of vitamins from the vegetables, all while keeping the calories in check. It’s a great way to enjoy the famous souvlaki flavors in a lighter, salad format.

Instructions:

• In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes to the bowl and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

• While the chicken is marinating, prepare the salad vegetables. Slice the cucumber, dice the tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. Set aside.

• Heat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers (if using), or simply cook the chicken cubes directly in the pan. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown.

• In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard (if using), dried oregano, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.

• Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skewers (if used) and set aside to cool slightly.

• In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and crumbled feta cheese.

• Add the grilled chicken pieces to the salad, and drizzle with the prepared dressing. Toss gently to combine.

This Greek Chicken Souvlaki Salad is perfect as a main course for lunch or dinner. It’s a light and refreshing Mediterranean-inspired dish, full of flavor and healthy ingredients to keep you satisfied throughout the day!

Add some classic tzatziki sauce for further taste!

2. Grilled Fish with Lemon and Oregano

Grilled fish is a quintessential Greek dish that is both delicious and incredibly low in calories. Typically, Greeks prefer to grill their fish with simple seasonings, letting the natural flavors shine through. This dish is light but packed with omega-3 fatty acids and other essential nutrients.

Instructions:

• Preheat the grill or a grill pan over medium heat.

• In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.

• Brush the fish fillets with the olive oil mixture on both sides.

• Place the fish on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

• Serve the grilled fish with a lemon wedge for added zest.

This simple dish is perfect for a low-calorie yet satisfying meal.

3. Greek Lentil Soup (Fakes Soupa)

Greek lentil soup, known as Fakes Soupa, is hearty, nutritious, and naturally low in calories. This staple Greek soup is made with lentils, vegetables, and olive oil. It’s high in protein and fiber, making it a great choice for a filling meal that won’t weigh you down. >> Head to this article to discover other delicious and low-calorie Greek winter soups!

Instructions:

• In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

• Add the carrots, celery, and lentils, and stir to combine.

• Pour in the vegetable broth and crushed tomatoes, and add the bay leaf, oregano, salt, and pepper.

• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

• Remove the bay leaf and adjust the seasoning as needed.

• Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This lentil soup is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a light but filling meal.

4. Greek Yogurt with Honey and Nuts

Greek yogurt is a staple in Greek cuisine, known for its rich texture and tangy flavor. Topped with honey and nuts, it’s an excellent dessert or snack that’s simple, low in calories, and has probiotics and healthy fats.

Instructions:

• Spoon the Greek yogurt into a bowl.

• Drizzle honey over the yogurt.

• Sprinkle chopped nuts on top, and add a pinch of cinnamon if desired.

• Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy texture with a hint of sweetness.

This easy-to-make dessert is light, satisfying, and perfect for a post-meal treat.

5. Stuffed Vine Leaves (Dolmades)

Dolmades are vine leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes ground meat. When made without meat, they become an incredibly low-calorie option perfect for a light appetizer or snack.

Instructions:

• In a pan, heat the olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until softened.

• Add the rice and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Then add the fresh dill, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

• Pour in the vegetable broth and simmer for 10 minutes until the rice absorbs the liquid but is not fully cooked.

• Lay out the grapevine leaves, shiny side down, and place a small spoonful of rice mixture in the center of each leaf.

• Carefully roll up the leaves, folding in the sides as you go to form a tight package.

• Place the stuffed vine leaves in a pot, seam side down, and pour over any remaining broth.

• Cover and simmer on low for about 30-40 minutes until the leaves are tender.

These stuffed vine leaves are flavorful and light, and make a perfect appetizer or side dish.

6. Baked Eggplant with Tomatoes and Feta

Eggplant is a healthy, low-calorie vegetable that’s frequently used in Greek cooking. In this dish, baked eggplant is paired with tomatoes and feta cheese.

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Lay the eggplant slices on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.

• Roast for about 25 minutes until tender and lightly browned.

• While the eggplant is baking, sauté the diced tomatoes in olive oil for 5-7 minutes until soft.

• Once the eggplant is done, top each slice with a spoonful of sautéed tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese.

• Sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper before serving.

This dish is healthy, low in calories, and full of Mediterranean flavors.

7. Greek Chicken Souvlaki (without Pita)

Chicken souvlaki is a favorite Greek street food. To make it lighter, skip the pita and enjoy the chicken with a side of salad or grilled vegetables. The marinade of olive oil, lemon, and oregano adds a refreshing touch.

Instructions:

• In a bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.

• Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes.

• Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers.

• Grill the skewers over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side or until the chicken is cooked through.

• Serve the souvlaki with a side of Greek salad or grilled vegetables.

This dish is low in calories and perfect for a satisfying yet healthy meal.

Greek cuisine offers a wealth of delicious, light recipes that can be enjoyed without compromising your health goals. These seven low-calorie recipes are a great way to indulge in delicious Greek food while maintaining a balanced diet. Enjoy!

Pin for Later!
Delicious Low-Calorie Greek Recipes