10 Easy Weight Watchers dinner recipes for two
It is a new year and for many of us, we use it as a new start. If you are planning to look at eating a little healthier, you may be looking to join somewhere such as Weight Watchers or Slimming World to kick start your healthy eating.
I know for many, they are not a fan of diet plans but if it works for you, then you do it. Sometimes, I find just having a bit of a structure for a few months is a great way to kick-start healthier eating habits, especially if we are sticking to it together as a family. Many of the meals you would eat are the same as a standard meal, just made with fresh ingredients and sometimes a few adjustments.
For us, when we are getting back to healthy eating we go back to basics. Usually, a great way to do this is with easy recipes for the whole family and without a doubt the slow cooker or instant pot comes out.
If you are trying to get back to a healthy way of eating, here are some of my favourite things we purchase in our shopping that will help you great a delicious meal with minimal fuss.
- Fat-free Greek yoghurt – Love this with fruit and honey for breakfast. I personally prefer the Greek yoghurt as it is slightly thicker than usual yoghurt but go for your preferences.
- Black beans – These are great in chillis, wraps and lots more. Any tinned pulses are great to keep in your cupboard, especially if you want to make your own meals and salad.
- Lean protein – It is usually cheaper than chicken but also quick to cook. If you are a fan of pork chops, look for the chops with the trimmed fat or chop them before cooking. Pork loin is great when added to stir-fries or even in an Asian-inspired spicy sauce.
- Veggies – Anything such as green peppers, red onion, green beans, courgettes, spinach etc. They are great for adding to soup and tray bakes, with minimal effort to prepare them all.
- Spices – Don’t forget to bring your flavour to your dinner dishes by using chilli powder, garlic powder, and paprika. I am also a fan of ground coriander in my curries.
- Ground beef – Always pick less than 5% fat. It is great for making chillis, curry or even spaghetti bolognese. You could switch out the beef for ground turkey if you prefer the taste. Both make delicious recipes!
It can be hard to get going and know where to start. So if you are looking for some inspiration for some easy Weight Watchers dinner ideas, read on, here are some of our favourite recipes to try out if you are watching your Weight Watchers points.
10 Easy Weight Watchers dinner recipes for two
Spicy Vegetable Sour Soup (Vegan)
This vegetable sour soup packs many different flavors and aromas but for me, the fact that it’s spicy, sweet and sour, all in the same time, makes it a winner all year round.
Weight Watchers Mexican Black Beans and Rice {Easy One-Pan Recipe}
These crazy-fast Mexican bowls take just 5 minutes to make. Enjoy tonight for dinner, and you’ll have just enough left for lunch the next day.
Healthy Mediterranean Hummus Wrap Recipe
This healthy Mediterranean hummus wrap recipe is such an easy, healthy lunch! Loads of healthy fresh veggies, creamy hummus, protein-packed chicken, and Mediterranean flavours are all wrapped in a portable tortilla.
The Best Grilled Buffalo Chicken
This Grilled Buffalo Chicken has all the flavour of your favourite chicken wings and is ideal for cooking outside or on a stovetop grill pan. You're going to adore this simple and adaptable chicken meal.
Haddock Baked in Foil
Fish is a great source of protein and is a great way for the whole family to make some healthy choices.
Cooking it in foil keeps the fish moist and packed full of flavour.
Weight Watchers Chicken Tacos (Only 5 Points!)
If you are looking for the perfect weeknight dinner that the whole family will love, check out these delicious chicken tacos.
Perfect when you want to enjoy some family favourite meals.
Healthy Chicken Piccata recipe
If you are looking for a low-point meal, this is a great recipe to get you started.
Served with plenty of veggies to boost your intake whilst staying on track with your daily points.
Baked Chicken Kabobs
I love a good kabob, especially when the are cooked over the bbq.
The best thing about these is the fact you can make them to suit your taste preferences.
Miso Ginger Salmon Bite Bowl with Broccoli
Salmon is a great source of protein and healthy omega 3s.
This recipe is packed full of flavour but also super easy to make too.
Weight Watchers Egg Roll in a Bowl
I have never tried an egg roll before but this looks delicious and packed with veggies and herbs.
These are just some of the best Weight Watchers dinner recipes I have found however if you are short on time or having a rough day you are able to purchase pre-made Weight Watchers meals and Weight Watchers desserts from major supermarkets which is great for those who don’t want to cook from scratch but stay on plan. The good news is these all share the Weight Watchers points on the packaging which makes it easier to track.
How does Weight Watchers work?
The Weight Watchers program is not all about calorie counting. Food is converted into points value, this takes into consideration the calories and nutritional value of each item. There was a stage where you were on a different plan (purple plan, blue plan, green plan) and these gave you different allowances and foods that were free but they have since streamlined it with everyone getting their allowance of ww points.
When you join, you are given your daily Weight Watchers points for you to use how you feel is best for you, the average is around 23 points a day. Combining these with ZeroPoint foods you are able to create a daily menu based on your preferences and choices. This allows you to stick to it much easier than if you are told what and when to eat.
Sometimes it is just about making adjustments to things you like, nothing is off the table. Here are some of the dishes that you can still enjoy:
- Weight Watchers pizza
- Weight Watchers burrito bowls
- Weight Watchers Tuscan chicken pasta
- Weight Watchers taco soup
- Weight Watchers casserole
Sheet pan meals are great too if you are sticking to your points, popping things such as green pepper, red onion, boneless chicken roast, chilli powder and even soy sauce in one pan and roasting. Giving you a dish packed full of flavour but also sticking to a healthy plan.
All Weight Watchers members have access to their site and app with the option to attend the sessions which is a great place for you to be inspired and get ideas on how to make some adjustments to get the best from your time on the plan. The app is the best place for you to track your weight loss journey and also see the smartpoints values for food.
How many points should a Weight Watchers meal be?
This is down to your personal preference however it is suggested, 3 points for breakfast, 7 for lunch, 10 for dinner and 3 for snacks. Use your ZeroPoint foods to fill out these meals and bulk out dishes.
ZeroPoint foods are not only great for bulking out meals but are good for the body too as they are all your veggies and fruit.
How much is Weight Watchers per month UK?
Currently, it is as low as £18.95 depending on the terms you sign up for but it is always worth looking out for a deal or a discount code as there is usually one around.
What is the key to a healthy lifestyle is eating?
The key to a healthy lifestyle is maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet. Eating a variety of nutrient-rich foods in appropriate portions is crucial for overall well-being. Here are some key principles to follow for a healthy eating plan:
- Eat a variety of foods: Include a wide range of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in your diet. Each food group provides different essential nutrients that are vital for good health.
- Portion control: Be mindful of portion sizes to avoid overeating. Listen to your body’s natural hunger and fullness cues and eat until you are satisfied, not overly stuffed. Too many of us pile our plates and eat them so we are not wasting food.
- Moderation and balance: Enjoy treats and indulgences in moderation, while focusing on a balanced overall diet. Aim for a mix of macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, fats) as well as micronutrients (vitamins, minerals) to meet your body’s needs.
- Stay hydrated: Drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day. Hydration is essential for maintaining bodily functions, supporting digestion, and overall health. It is also great for helping eliminate headaches from lack of hydration.
- Limit processed foods and added sugars: Processed foods often contain high amounts of unhealthy fats, added sugars, and preservatives. Minimize their consumption and opt for whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible.
- Cook and prepare meals at home: Preparing meals at home gives you control over the ingredients and allows you to make healthier choices. It also promotes a greater connection with your food and can be an enjoyable and rewarding activity.
Remember, everyone’s nutritional needs may vary, so it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice based on your specific circumstances. Additionally, exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management are also essential components of a healthy lifestyle.
Whether you choose to join somewhere such as Weight Watchers or Slimming World, you need to want to make healthy choices. We have all been there, new year, new me and 5 days in you are bored or off plan. It doesn’t work for the bank balance or waistline.
For me, after all these years I have found the best option is to take things back to basics when it comes to our family meals. It is about packing the plates full of veggies, whether that is in a hidden veggie pasta sauce or extra carrots and swede in our stew. It is the small tweaks that over time become more of a habit than shocking your body into a huge change suddenly.
