It's ok to cave to southern food cravings with these dishes.
Craving southern-style recipes? You don’t need to abandon your weight loss goals or your nutritious eating habits when your mouth starts watering for those classic dishes! Check out these 21 deliciously healthy low calorie southern meals to eat traditional southern-style cooking without the guilt.
21 Healthy Low Calorie Southern Meals
Get a taste of the south in a healthier way with any of these low calorie southern meals!
1. Carolina Fresh Coleslaw
This no-mayo coleslaw is much kinder to your thighs than traditional versions. Plus, it’s tangy and delicious!
2. Slow Cooker Red Beans and Rice
Healthy southern foods like this one are big on taste and nutrition. This classic staple is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
3. Whole Wheat Buttermilk Biscuits
Classic biscuits will give you a muffin top—try this healthier alternative instead. They’re fluffy, crumbly, and packed with whole wheat nutrients!
4. Juicy Faux Fried Chicken
Enjoy the healthy low calorie southern meals you crave—without a bit of fried food guilt. This “fried” chicken is even better than most restaurants’. Grab the recipe here.
5. Roasted Okra (Okra Fries)
Simple and clean—there’s lots to love about this okra recipe. Make this classic southern staple and enjoy a burst of tasty vitamin power!
6. Oven-Baked Green Tomatoes
Forget fried and bake healthy southern dishes like this tasty side. These are so crispy, you won’t even realize they’re healthy!
7. Slow Cooker Southern Style Green Beans
Healthy southern foods like this side dish may make you wonder why you didn’t try clean eating sooner! Make this for your next family dinner or holiday meal.
8. Super Easy Black Eyed Peas
This version of black eyed peas and rice is a simple and delicious option. Meal prep a big batch over the weekend and enjoy it all week long!
9. Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Who doesn’t love tender and flavorful pulled pork? Yummy, healthy low calorie southern meals like this one are a cleaner alternative to traditional recipes.