These 13 Vegan Meals Under 500 Calories Felt Just Right

Meals under 500 calories usually scream bland or leave you chewing on sadness, but these 13 proved otherwise. They hit that magical middle ground where your body feels fed, your brain feels tricked, and your fridge doesn’t look at you with judgment later. All plant-based, all under control, and somehow not boring. It’s like someone finally cracked the code on how to eat smart without feeling like you’re being punished.

Close-up of guacamole on a tortilla chip, showing a textured mixture of avocado, herbs, and spices. — Guacamole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

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Lentil Bolognese

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.

Lentils take center stage in this hearty option, offering a rich and filling experience without being heavy. Lentil Bolognese swaps traditional ingredients for plant-based ones while still packing that familiar flavor. It’s a great pick when you want a big dinner under 500 calories. This dish keeps you full without weighing you down after the meal.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Bolognese

Grilled Zucchini

Smoky yet simple, Grilled Zucchini is all about balancing texture and flavor with every bite. You’ll appreciate how light it feels while still having substance. It’s the kind of meal you’d go for when looking for something fresh yet satisfying. Easy to love, especially for a quick, low-calorie option.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Zucchini

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.

Packed with deep flavors, Sesame Soba Noodles create a perfect mix of tenderness and crunch. It’s a bowl that feels filling, but you won’t feel bogged down afterward. There’s a nice balance between fresh and bold elements that works well when you’re aiming to eat light. Ideal for a quick meal under 500 calories.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Soba Noodles

Quinoa Salad

Filling without being heavy, Quinoa Salad offers a solid mix of textures for a balanced, light meal. You’ll appreciate how it feels like a full plate and not just a snack. It’s perfect for an easy meal that doesn’t go over 500 calories. Great option for days when you want fresh but hearty.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Salad

Pico de Gallo

Fresh and bold, Pico de Gallo is light but full of textures. It works well as a side, snack, or topping whenever you want something bright to add to your day. You’ll find it’s a nice change of pace that feels rewarding without overloading your plate. Great choice for keeping things simple yet flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Cucumber Tomato Salad

A bowl of fresh salad with sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and herbs, seasoned with black pepper, with a serving spoon. — Cucumber Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Cucumber Tomato Salad focuses on simple textures and fresh flavors that work perfectly together. This combination feels light but still like you’ve had a full meal. It’s quick to enjoy during busy moments without feeling heavy or complicated. A go-to option when you need a balanced dish with fewer calories.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Tomato Salad

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.

Perfectly cooked veggies take the spotlight with Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables—it’s all about the textures. Light but packed with flavor, this dish makes roasted veggies feel exciting. You’ll find it works well as a main or side dish for keeping meals under 500 calories. Great for keeping variety in your meals without complicating your day.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Dairy Free Ice Cream

A gold spoon scoops a portion of creamy, pale vanilla ice cream from a glass bowl. — Dairy Free Ice Cream. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Dairy Free Ice Cream takes a favorite treat and gives it a plant-based twist. It’s creamy and sweet without going overboard. A light dessert option that doesn’t feel heavy or ruin healthy eating plans. Ideal for cooling off with something that hits the sweet spot but stays under 500 calories.
Get the Recipe: Dairy Free Ice Cream

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.

Comforting and flavorful, Vegan Enchilada Casserole turns a classic into something lighter and plant-based. It feels like more than just veggies—it’s filling and satisfying without adding extra calories. Perfect for when you want something warm with layers of flavor. Keeps the calories low while bringing bold tastes.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Enchilada Casserole

Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad

A plate of watermelon salad with cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and mint leaves, served with a lime wedge. — Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Sweet blends with salty in Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad, making it stand out with a unique pairing. Light yet memorable, this dish works perfectly for a quick option that feels different from your usual meals. Balanced and fresh, it keeps things interesting without being overwhelming. A refreshing option under 500 calories.
Get the Recipe: Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad

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.

Heartwarmingly simple, Mushroom Pie makes good use of its main ingredient without feeling heavy. It’s plant-based yet packs the kind of flavors that feel hearty and complete. Great for when you want lighter comfort food under 500 calories. A solid pick for enjoying something unique without overloading.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pie

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.

Vegan French Toast Casserole re-imagines a classic into something light but indulgent. It brings familiar textures and flavors together while keeping everything under 500 calories. This is great for moments when you’re craving something sweet but want a healthier version. Perfect for a lighter breakfast or dessert option.
Get the Recipe: Vegan French Toast Casserole

Guacamole

Creamy with just enough texture, Guacamole never feels like it’s too much. It’s a quick go-to for snacks or a side option that feels fulfilling and light. Perfect when you want something to add richness without going overboard. Easily keeps things under 500 calories while staying simple and versatile.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole