The Easiest Way To Stay Balanced Is 9 Vegan Recipes Under 500 Calories

Balancing healthy eating with a packed schedule doesn’t have to feel like rocket science or kale boot camp. With just 9 smart meal options all under 500 calories, it’s surprisingly simple to keep things on track without any food drama. These plant-based picks won’t leave anyone staring into the fridge two hours later wondering what went wrong.

A pot of pasta with a tomato-based sauce, lentils, mushrooms, and vegetables on a light surface beside a bowl of grated cheese. — Lentil Bolognese. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

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Pico de Gallo

Fresh and simple, this salsa-style dish is all about bold freshness. Pico de Gallo combines chopped ingredients into a mix that’s great for dipping or topping meals. It’s light yet flavorful, giving meals a refreshing boost. Perfect for adding a burst of vibrancy without being heavy on calories.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Sesame Soba Noodles

Two bowls of soba noodle salad with carrots, edamame, and radish slices, placed on a patterned cloth with wooden chopsticks beside them. — Sesame Soba Noodles. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Balanced and quick, these cold noodles are comforting without being too rich. Sesame Soba Noodles bring pleasing elements together, creating a great go-to option for any time. They’re perfect for meals where you need a light but filling option. Great for keeping things simple without overthinking meals.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Soba Noodles

Vegan Enchilada Casserole

Close-up of a layered dish with melted cheese, corn, beans, diced tomatoes, and green onions. — Vegan Enchilada Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

This layered dish makes hearty meals easy. Vegan Enchilada Casserole is built with bold flavors and textures that make it great for group meals or everyday eating. Being plant-based, it keeps things light but doesn’t skimp on substance. Perfect for meal prepping or sharing with others.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Enchilada Casserole

Marry Me Lentils

A pan of lentil dish with spinach, fresh basil, tomato sauce, and melted cheese, garnished with lemon wedges. — Marry Me Lentils. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Warm and simple, this great dish pairs rich flavors in every bite. Marry Me Lentils are simple to make, yet they work wonderfully as a main dish or side option. They aren’t overwhelming yet still deliver full-bodied texture. It’s ideal for meals where you want something reliable.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Lentils

Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

A white dish with roasted root vegetables, including carrots, parsnips, red onions, and sweet potatoes, garnished with fresh dill and thyme. — Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Easy and hands-off, everything comes together in one pan. Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables let you get the feeling of smoky flavors without needing much time or effort. This dish works great for mixing with grains or eating as-is, making it versatile. Plus, it’s light but fulfilling enough to hold its own.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Guacamole

Creamy and easy to scoop, this is a go-to choice for boosting meals or just enjoying solo. Guacamole gives a smooth texture mixed with fresh elements that keep it refreshing. It works great as a dip or topping for lighter snacks. Plus, it’s effortlessly healthy without compromise.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole

Vegan French Toast Casserole

Close-up of baked French toast with strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, dusted with powdered sugar and drizzled with syrup in a baking dish. — Vegan French Toast Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Perfect for mornings or any time you crave something a bit special. Vegan French Toast Casserole reimagines breakfast classics in a way that’s filling but mindful of calories. It’s rich in texture without using dairy, making it great for plant-based diets. Perfect balance between sweet and light.
Get the Recipe: Vegan French Toast Casserole

Mushroom Pie

Four individual pot pies with flaky crusts on a round tray, one open to reveal a mushroom filling. — Mushroom Pie. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Hearty and layered, this plant-based option feels rewarding on a busy day. Mushroom Pie mixes soft textures within a crisp shell for an easy meal you can enjoy anytime. It’s good for dinner or even quicker lunches when you need energizing food fast. Similarly, it blends comfort and balance in one go.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pie

Lentil Bolognese

Light yet perfect for pairing with pasta or grains, this meal keeps things simple. Lentil Bolognese focuses on great texture for plant-based meals without overcomplicating things. It’s easy to fit into any meal thanks to its versatility. A useful option to add balance while staying within calorie-friendly limits.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Bolognese