Pumpkin-Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies Are the First Dessert You Should Bake This Fall
![](/<img src="https://healthnewschannel.com/images/joomgrabber/2025-09/727150fa42.jpeg" title="">)
Sidebar
Healthy Living
Joanna Gaines Has Hundreds of Beautiful Kitchen Pieces, but I'm Eyeing These 9 Under $15
![](/<img src="https://healthnewschannel.com/images/joomgrabber/2025-09/7c960303bb.jpeg" title="">)
The Best Time to Eat Breakfast If You Have Diabetes, According to Diabetes Educators
![](/<img src="https://healthnewschannel.com/images/joomgrabber/2025-09/dbababf735.jpeg" title="">)
12 Veggie-Packed Lunch Recipes for Back to School
![](/<img src="https://healthnewschannel.com/images/joomgrabber/2025-09/7d3c6116a8.jpeg" title="">)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Cucumber-Salmon-Salad-Sandwich-Beauty--193_preview_maxWidth_4000_maxHeight_4000_ppi_300_quality_100-5c0aca1a9a43478cbf6a9ac516b7696c.jpg "a recipe photo of Cucumber-Salmon Salad Sandwich")
Photographer: Victor Protasio, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Stylist: Hannah Grennwood.
As summer winds down and school starts back up again, finding inspiration for healthy lunch recipes can be challenging. That’s why we put together this collection of delicious midday meals that are packed with vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers and zucchini. From salads you can prep the night before to satisfying handhelds, these meals will keep you or your kids energized all day. Try our High-Protein Cucumber Sandwich or our 5-Ingredient Avocado & Chickpea Salad for the perfect school-friendly lunch.
01 of 12
High-Protein Black Bean Salad
Photographer: Brittney Cottrell, Food Stylist: Julia Levy, Prop Stylist: Abby Armstrong.
In this high-protein salad, black beans take center stage. As the main source of plant-based protein, they make the salad satisfying, with their creamy texture pairing perfectly with sweet potato, crisp veggies and a citrusy dressing. It’s an easy, filling option for lunch or dinner—especially for those looking to add more plant-powered protein to their diet.
02 of 12
High-Protein Cucumber Sandwich
Photographer: Brittney Cottrell, Food Stylist: Julia Levy, Prop Stylist: Abby Armstrong.
This high-protein cucumber sandwich features a creamy spread made by whipping cottage cheese with white miso, soy sauce and rice vinegar. This mixture delivers a creamy boost of protein that pairs perfectly with sliced cucumbers, which add a crisp, fresh bite.
03 of 12
Cucumber-Hummus Wrap
Photographer: Ali Redmond.
This cucumber-hummus wrap is a crisp, refreshing lunch packed with veggies. Shredded green cabbage adds a satisfying crunch, while the creamy dressing (flavored with pickle juice, but no pickles) adds tang without excess sodium. Hummus provides a creamy base that pairs perfectly with the fresh crispy vegetables. For a shortcut, swap in pre-shredded coleslaw mix instead of shredding your own cabbage.
04 of 12
High-Protein Caprese Chickpea Salad
Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle
This caprese chickpea salad is a fresh, protein- and fiber-packed, plant-based twist on the classic Italian favorite. It combines creamy mozzarella pearls, juicy cherry tomatoes and fragrant fresh basil with hearty chickpeas for a satisfying dish. A simple balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together with a tangy-sweet finish. It’s quick to prepare, colorful and bursting with summery flavor.
05 of 12
Veggie Sandwich with Garlic-Herb Cheese
Photographer: Jacob Fox, Food Stylist: Sammy Mila, Prop Stylist: Joseph Wanek.
The creamy spreadable cheese in this veggie sandwich adds flavor while holding everything in place. This colorful, well-balanced sandwich is crispy from the cucumber and peppers, sweet from the tomatoes and beets, and tangy from the banana peppers.
06 of 12
Ginger-Soy Zucchini Noodles with Shrimp
Photographer: Jacob Fox, Food Stylist: Sammy Mila, Prop Stylist: Joseph Wanek.
These ginger-soy zucchini noodles with shrimp are a light, flavorful no-cook dish that’s perfect for warmer days. Thinly sliced zucchini offers a crisp and refreshing base, while the sauce (made with ginger, soy and lime juice) adds bold and bright flavors. Precooked shrimp make this meal fast and convenient—just toss everything together and serve! It’s a fresh, protein-packed bowl that comes together in minutes.
07 of 12
Cucumber-Salmon Salad Sandwich
Photographer: Victor Protasio, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Stylist: Hannah Grennwood.
This salmon-and-cucumber sandwich, served on rye bread, combines flaky canned salmon with crisp cucumber slices and a smear of cream cheese. Fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon juice add brightness, while a pinch of cracked pepper enhances the savory flavor profile.
08 of 12
5-Ingredient Avocado & Chickpea Salad
Photographer: Jake Sternquist, Food Stylist: Sammy Mila, Prop Stylist: Gabriel Greco.
This avocado-and-chickpea salad is a fresh, flavorful dish that comes together in minutes. Made with just five ingredients, it’s as simple as it is satisfying. Creamy avocado pairs perfectly with hearty chickpeas for a filling, plant-based meal. With no cooking required and minimal prep, it’s a perfect quick lunch or dinner.
09 of 12
High-Protein Pasta Salad
Photographer: Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Julian Hensarling, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle
This high-protein pasta salad is a satisfying dish packed with plant-based protein from chickpea pasta and chickpeas, with an extra boost coming from fresh mozzarella cheese pearls. Tossed with fresh veggies and flavored with zingy za’atar seasoning, this salad is perfect for meal prep, a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner.
10 of 12
Turkey, Cucumber & Cream Cheese Roll-Ups
Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Hannah Greenwood.
These turkey-cucumber roll-ups are a protein-packed lunch that comes together in minutes. Sliced deli turkey wraps around crisp cucumber slices and a layer of dill-infused cream cheese for a cool, satisfying bite. Once rolled, it’s sliced into pieces, ideal for a quick lunch.
11 of 12
High-Fiber Chopped Salad with Italian Vinaigrette
Ali Redmond
This chopped salad is a crisp, colorful mix of veggies. It’s tossed with a zesty homemade vinaigrette while chickpeas bring on the plant-based protein and fiber. Everything is chopped small for the perfect forkful every time.
12 of 12
Cucumber-Avocado-Tomato Sandwich
Photographer: Morgan Hunt Glaze, Prop Stylist: Pricilla Montiel, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer
This tomato, cucumber and avocado sandwich is the perfect light and easy lunch. With a few fresh ingredients, you can have a satisfying meal in just 10 minutes. Creamy avocado and hummus provide plant-based protein and healthy fats, while juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers bring refreshing crunch and flavor. Layer it all on whole-grain bread for an extra boost of fiber, and you’ve got a quick and wholesome sandwich at the ready!
7 Dietitian-Recommended Frozen Foods to Help Lower Triglycerides
![](/<img src="https://healthnewschannel.com/images/joomgrabber/2025-09/4d3c18ae76.jpeg" title="">)
How You Cook Your Fish May Affect Your Cancer Risk, New Study Suggests
![](/<img src="https://healthnewschannel.com/images/joomgrabber/2025-09/67838e482b.jpeg" title="">)
11 High-Fiber Smoothie Recipes to Help You Poop
![](/<img src="https://healthnewschannel.com/images/joomgrabber/2025-09/b95d871ee6.jpeg" title="">)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/EWL-orange-peel-smoothie-beauty-1x1-135_preview_maxWidth_4000_maxHeight_4000_ppi_300_quality_100-9319dfd1cebd41039eaf169d01c22c8b.jpg "an image of the Orange Peel Smoothie")
Photographer: Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Tricia Manzanero, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle
Getting more fiber in the morning is as easy as sipping on one of these delicious smoothies. Packed with flavorful fruits, leafy greens and gut-healthy seeds, these refreshing blends have at least six grams of fiber per serving, so they can aid digestion and improve regularity. If you’re in need of a gut-friendly boost, whip one up for breakfast, have a drink post-workout or stash a few packs in the freezer so you can just blend and go. Try our Creamy Mango-Blueberry Chia Seed Smoothie or our Peanut Butter-Banana Flaxseed Smoothie and sip your way towards a happier and healthier gut!
01 of 11
Creamy Mango-Blueberry Chia Seed Smoothie
Photographer: Brittney Cottrell, Food stylist: Marianne Williams, Prop stylist: Keoshia McGhee.
This chia seed smoothie is a nutrient-packed blend perfect for breakfast. Sweet, tropical mango pairs with juicy blueberries for a refreshing balance of flavors and natural sweetness. Chia seeds add texture while providing fiber and omega-3s. This colorful smoothie is as energizing as it is delicious, keeping you feeling fueled and refreshed all morning.
02 of 11
Green Smoothie
Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless.
This vibrant green smoothie with spinach, banana, mango and pineapple is a refreshing way to start your day. The spinach blends in seamlessly without overpowering the sweet tropical flavors. Banana gives the smoothie a creamy texture, while mango and pineapple bring natural sweetness and a bright, sunny taste.
03 of 11
Peanut Butter-Banana Flaxseed Smoothie
Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Lindsey Lower.
This peanut butter–banana flaxseed smoothie is a creamy, satisfying drink that’s perfect for breakfast. The banana adds natural sweetness and helps create a smooth, rich texture. Peanut butter brings delicious nutty flavor along with plant-based protein to keep you full longer. Ground flaxseed boosts the smoothie with fiber and omega-3s. Blended with almond milk, it’s a quick and delicious way to fuel your day.
04 of 11
Strawberry-Mango Chia Seed Smoothie
Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle.
This strawberry-mango chia seed smoothie is a nutrient-packed drink rich in fiber, antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. Chia seeds provide a plant-based source of protein and help keep you feeling full longer. You can use frozen strawberries and mango, but you’ll need to add extra almond milk to help it blend smoothly.
05 of 11
Blueberry-Peach Chia Seed Smoothie
Photographer: Victor Protasio, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Stylist: Hannah Grennwood.
This fruit smoothie is a nutrient-packed drink that’s perfect for your next breakfast. It blends frozen peaches and sweet frozen blueberries with a splash of almond milk and yogurt for a creamy, fruity base. Chia seeds add fiber, omega-3s and a slight thickness to the smoothie as they soak up the liquid.
06 of 11
Apple Pie Smoothie
Photographer: Brie Goldman Food Stylist: Annie Probst Prop Stylist: Breanna Ghazali
Enjoy a dessert-inspired breakfast with this apple pie smoothie! With warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, juicy apples and hearty oats for a healthy dose of fiber, this smoothie is the perfect way to start your day.
07 of 11
Raspberry-Peach Chia Seed Smoothie
Photographer: Morgan Hunt Glaze, Prop Stylist: Abby Armstrong, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey
This creamy raspberry-peach chia seed smoothie is the best way to start your day or recharge in the afternoon. Chia seeds add fiber to keep you full and satisfied. The natural sweetness of frozen peaches combined with dates and the tangy brightness of raspberries make every sip refreshing and satisfying.
08 of 11
Orange Peel Smoothie
Photographer: Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Tricia Manzanero, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle
This creamy smoothie makes the most of the entire orange—peel and all. In addition to cutting down on food waste, studies suggest that orange peel is a powerhouse for gut health, packed with fiber to nourish beneficial gut bacteria. If you’re going to include orange peel in your recipes more often, consider using organic oranges and giving them a thorough cleaning before using. We recommend fresh ginger for the best flavor here, but you can substitute ¼ teaspoon ground ginger in its place if you prefer.
09 of 11
Berry–Green Tea Smoothie
Heami Lee, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Christine Keeley
This berry-green tea smoothie recipe is a refreshing, nutrient-packed beverage with plenty of anti-inflammatory benefits. It combines antioxidant-rich berries, green tea and omega-3-rich chia seeds with the natural sweetness of dates, blending into a delicious, healthy drink. It’s perfect for starting your day or as a post-workout recovery drink. Your favorite berry or a blend of berries will work well here.
10 of 11
Reese's Peanut Butter Cup–Inspired Smoothie
Photographer: Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Craig Huff, Prop Stylist: Abby Armstrong
This rich and creamy Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup–inspired smoothie mimics the flavors of the classic candy. Frozen banana lends body, while the topping of melted, hardened chocolate over the top adds a crunch to the creamy drink. For an extra dose of peanutty goodness, top it off with crushed peanuts or a swirl of peanut butter.
11 of 11
Tropical Gut-Healthy Smoothie
Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Christina Brockman
This dairy-free gut-healthy smoothie features kiwi (a prebiotic) and coconut-milk yogurt (a probiotic) working together to support a healthy gut. Golden kiwis add a lovely golden hue to the smoothie, but green kiwis work just as well.
Our 13 Best Vegetarian Dinner Recipes for Better Blood Sugar
![](/<img src="https://healthnewschannel.com/images/joomgrabber/2025-09/23e1ab684f.jpeg" title="">)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/RoastedPotatoTzatzikiBowl-370_preview_maxWidth_4000_maxHeight_4000_ppi_300_quality_100-006afd90515e4ef681dde7724acbc18d.jpg "an image of the Roasted Potato Tzatziki Bowl")
Photographer Victor Protasio, Food Stylist Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Stylist Christina Daley
If you’re looking to keep dinner meat-free and diabetes-friendly, these vegetarian meals are sure to satisfy. By limiting calories, carbs, saturated fat and sodium, these dishes meet our parameters for a diabetes-appropriate eating pattern, so you can feel confident that your dinner supports your nutritional needs. Plus, we compiled recipes with four- and five-star ratings from our readers, so you know they’re all winners. From our vibrant Roasted Potato Tzatziki Bowls to our cozy High-Protein Pasta with Peas, these recipes are the key to all of your dinner time needs.
01 of 13
High-Protein Pasta with Peas
Photographer: Morgan Hunt Glaze, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer
This one-pot pasta with peas is packed with plant-based protein and a healthy dose of fiber. The chickpea pasta is cooked with vibrant green peas and tossed with fragrant basil and a rich pesto sauce for fresh flavor in every bite. Nutty toasted pine nuts provide the perfect crunch, adding depth and texture.
02 of 13
Extra-Crispy Eggplant Parmesan
Photographer: Fred Hardy, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Shell Royster
This eggplant Parmesan is creamy in the center with a crispy panko crust on the outside. To know when your eggplant is cooked to perfection, poke it with the tip of a paring knife. The knife tip should slide through with little resistance. If it feels a little too tough in some spots, it needs a few more minutes in the oven. You can rotate the baking sheet front to back for even browning.
03 of 13
Roasted Potato Tzatziki Bowls
Photographer Victor Protasio, Food Stylist Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Stylist Christina Daley
Our roasted potato tzatziki bowls are the perfect plant-based dinner, with bright, fresh and creamy flavors in every bite. Crispy, golden roasted potatoes are the centerpiece, accompanied by a tangy, herb-packed tzatziki sauce at the base. Loaded with fresh veggies like cucumbers, cherry tomatoes and red onion with a side of chickpeas for added fiber and plant-based protein, these bowls deliver big on flavor and nutrition.
04 of 13
One-Pot White Bean, Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo with Lemon & Feta
Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Julian Hensarling, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless
This one-pot pasta dish with white beans, spinach and sun-dried tomatoes is lively and vibrant and leaves you with an easy cleanup. Toasting the orzo before adding the broth adds another layer of flavor. Another dark, leafy green, such as chopped kale or Swiss chard, can stand in for the spinach, but it may take longer to wilt in the pan. If you use a sturdier green, add it to the pan during the last 5 minutes of cooking time.
05 of 13
Chhole (Chickpea Curry)
Andrew Scrivani
This healthy Indian recipe is a flavorful chickpea curry that you can make in just 20 minutes. Also called chana masala, this dish is a comforting and delicious dinner.
06 of 13
Mushroom & Tofu Stir-Fry
This tofu veggie stir-fry is quick and easy, making it a great go-to weeknight meal. Baked tofu has a firm, toothsome texture that crisps well in a hot pan. You can find it in flavors like teriyaki and sesame, both of which are delicious here. Or opt for a smoked version, which has the same texture with a more robust flavor. Serve over brown rice.
07 of 13
Sweet Potato–Black Bean Burgers
These vegan sweet potato–black bean burgers spiced with curry powder are easy to make. Blending the mixture with your hands gives you a soft, uniform texture, and then the outside gets crispy by cooking in a cast-iron pan. To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free oats and serve the patty in a lettuce wrap, omitting the bun.
08 of 13
Black Bean & Mushroom Enchilada Casserole
Mushrooms and creamy black beans spiced with cumin and oregano create the filling for this vegetarian enchilada casserole. Pepper Jack adds nice flavor, but you can substitute regular Monterey Jack cheese if you don't want the heat.
09 of 13
Pesto Pasta with Peas & Tomatoes
Ali Redmond
This Pesto Pasta with Peas & Tomatoes is a bright, flavorful dish that comes together quickly. Pasta is cooked alongside frozen sweet peas, then tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes and basil pesto for a fresh, herbaceous finish. You can serve it warm or chilled, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks or picnics. A sprinkle of Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon add the perfect final touch.
10 of 13
Herb-Marinated Veggie & Chickpea Salad
Photographer: Jacob Fox, Food Stylist: Sammy Mila, Prop Stylist: Joseph Wanek.
This herb-marinated veggie-and-chickpea salad is a refreshing, no-cook dish packed with fresh flavors. It brings together crisp raw vegetables and fiber-rich chickpeas, all tossed in a zesty herb dressing that infuses every bite. Since it requires no stove or oven time, it’s perfect for warm days, meal prep or busy weeknights when you want something quick.
11 of 13
5-Ingredient Avocado & Chickpea Salad
Photographer: Jake Sternquist, Food Stylist: Sammy Mila, Prop Stylist: Gabriel Greco.
This avocado-and-chickpea salad is a fresh, flavorful dish that comes together in minutes. Made with just five ingredients, it’s as simple as it is satisfying. Creamy avocado pairs perfectly with hearty chickpeas for a filling, plant-based meal. With no cooking required and minimal prep, it’s a perfect quick lunch or dinner.
12 of 13
High-Protein White Bean Salad with Feta & Lemon-Garlic Vinaigrette
Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen
This white bean salad with feta and lemon-garlic vinaigrette is quick and requires no stove time. White beans bring plant-based protein and fiber to help keep you full. Creamy feta cheese provides a tangy, salty contrast to the bright vinaigrette. Tossed with fresh herbs and toasted walnuts, this salad is perfect for a light lunch.
13 of 13
Cherry Tomato Pasta
Jen Causey
This cherry tomato pasta is the quick summer dinner you’ve been waiting for. Chickpea pasta adds fiber, while cherry tomatoes and basil cook down to create a flavorful sauce. Tossing the hot pasta with some of the cheese before topping it with the sauce is the key to ensuring all the noodles get coated with cheesy goodness.
6 Things You Should Do to Lose Visceral Fat, According to Dietitians
![](/<img src="https://healthnewschannel.com/images/joomgrabber/2025-09/d1dc842a31.jpeg" title="">)
7 Carbs with More Fiber Than Brown Rice
![](/<img src="https://healthnewschannel.com/images/joomgrabber/2025-09/41a5b208d6.jpeg" title="">)
High-Fiber Cheesy Sautéed Cabbage
![](/<img src="https://healthnewschannel.com/images/joomgrabber/2025-09/4e02cbfc1f.jpeg" title="">)