On the surface, it seems like low-calorie foods are nothing but bland, tasteless options we’d sooner forget about. But the reality is that guilt-free diets are filled with rich fruits and vegetables that are not only healthy but tasty, too. Let’s explore 20 low-calorie foods you can (and should) work into your diet!
1. Celery
Celery boasts as little as six calories per serving, full of both water and fiber. Its low calories make it a great standalone snack, but also the perfect base for other healthy options like peanut butter or sunflower seeds.
Photo by Karolina Kaboompics on Pexels
2. Asparagus
It’s hard to believe that a simple stalk has so few calories and so many vitamins, but asparagus brings the fantasy to life. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, asparagus has roughly 20 calories per serving and tastes great when steamed or grilled.
Photo by Karolina Kaboompics on Pexels
3. Tomatoes
If you’re looking for a healthy, low-calorie veggie for your garden, tomatoes are the way to go. A medium Roma tomato carries just 22 calories but is also filled with vitamins. They can even improve heart health if eaten regularly.
Photo by Roychan Kruawan on Unsplash
4. Eggs
When you think about it, eggs are pretty spectacular. Not only does one large white egg account for 55 calories, but it’s also a protein-rich breakfast option loaded with iron, vitamins, and calcium. Best of all, they’re versatile enough for multiple recipes.
Photo by Monserrat Soldú on Pexels
5. Green Beans
All those vitamins without any of the calories? Believe it! Green beans only have about 31 calories per serving and come with a healthy serving of vitamins A and C. You can steam them with a dash of seasoning or toss them in a stir-fry for a healthy kick.
Photo by Neha Deshmukh on Unsplash
6. Grapefruit
Compared to other foods on this list, grapefruit’s 52-calorie price tag may seem high. However, it’s still one of the lowest-calorie foods that pack in all sorts of vitamins and antioxidants. Dig in with a spoon or add a couple of slices to a salad for that little touch of citrus.
Photo by Yann Khatchadourian on Unsplash
7. Watermelon
Who would’ve thought that a fruit mostly made of water had only 30 calories per serving? The low calorie count may not have been a surprise, but it might surprise you to know that this refreshing fruit carries all kinds of vitamins and potassium, too.
Photo by Ibrahim Rifath on Unsplash
8. Apples
Speaking of water-rich fruits, some apple varieties only have about 30 calories per serving. They make a great snack, have an unbeatable crunch, and come with fiber and vitamin C.
Photo by Matheus Cenali on Unsplash
9. Mushrooms
We know that not everyone’s big on mushrooms, but fans can rest easy knowing this veggie only has about 15 calories per serving. Their versatility allows you to sautée or grill them, all while providing plenty of vitamin D.
Photo by engin akyurt on Unsplash
10. Cauliflower
Too many people hate on cauliflower, but maybe we can change your mind! Would it help to know that it’s only about 25 calories per serving, can be used as a healthy alternative to rice or mashed potatoes, and is also rich in vitamins? Try it roasted with herbs and get back to us.
Photo by Çağlar Oskay on Unsplash
11. Beets
With just about 40 calories per serving, beets are a nutritious food loaded with fiber, vitamin C, and iron. You can turn to them for antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, too—not bad for something with so few calories!
Photo by Emma-Jane Hobden on Unsplash
12. Carrots
It’s hard to narrow down all the health benefits of carrots. For starters, they’re good for the eyes, promote healthier hair, and only have about 40 calories per serving. On top of that, they’re also rich in vitamins and help keep teeth shining.
Photo by Becca Tapert on Unsplash
13. Strawberries
Strawberries are a beloved berry with only 50 calories or so per serving. They have plenty of vitamin C and antioxidants—and pack a fibrous punch. Mix them in smoothies or eat a handful with breakfast to reap all the benefits.
Photo by Massimiliano Martini on Unsplash
14. Kale
Kale is a classified superfood for a reason. In just 30 calories per serving, this leafy green provides vitamins, fiber, and calcium to just about any diet. You can also indulge for better heart health and a decreased risk of heart disease.
Photo by Eva Bronzini on Pexels
15. Bell Peppers
Orange or red, big or small, it doesn’t matter! Bell peppers come with roughly 25 calories per serving, have all kinds of vitamins, and can be prepared in a variety of ways. Eat them raw or stuff them full of lean meat for a healthy dinner option.
Photo by Kai Pilger on Unsplash
16. Papaya
Papaya is an antioxidant powerhouse with roughly 40 calories per serving. It’s rich in vitamins A, C, and E, and can help regulate cholesterol levels. This sweet fruit is also rich in fiber and water, which helps keep you hydrated and regular.
Photo by Amanda Lins on Unsplash
17. Lettuce
Ah, the foundation of any salad. Most varieties of lettuce, especially romaine and iceberg, don’t even have 10 calories per serving. Next time you whip up a salad or a wrap, don’t be afraid to pile on the greens.
Photo by engin akyurt on Unsplash
18. Clementines
Don’t be so quick to turn your back on this little guy—clementines may be small, but they’re still filled with vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. At just under 50 calories per serving, you really can’t go wrong.
Photo by charlesdeluvio on Unsplash
19. Zucchini
Need a veggie high in fiber but low in calories? Say hello to the zucchini! With only 20 or so calories per serving, this fibrous food can be added to soups and stews guilt-free. You’ll also get plenty of vitamin C and potassium, too.
Photo by Caroline Attwood on Unsplash
20. Radishes
Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, radishes clock in just under 20 calories per serving. Toss them in salads for a satisfying crunch and protection against health concerns like high cholesterol or high blood pressure.
