There are several different types of low-fat dinners that can make it easier for people to control their fat intake. The most common is typically a large portion of whole grains and vegetables coupled with a small portion of lean protein. Vegetarian low-fat dinners are also popular, and typically consist of an assortment of vegetables, grains, and non-animal sources of protein. Soup dishes are often low-fat as well, and are typically easy to prepare, filling, and healthy.
One of the most common, and easily achievable, types of low-fat dinners are those that adjust the ratios of complex carbohydrates, vegetables, and proteins, the three main components of most dinners. Rather than protein being the primary part of the meal, the carbohydrates and vegetables account for most of the calories, which, when prepared as-is without cheese, butter, or other fat-filled toppings are lower in fat than many types of protein. For the protein, lean meats such as chicken breast, pork, and fish are most common, as these are traditionally low in fat when prepared properly, such as grilling or baking. In these types of low-fat dinners, a meal will often consist of one serving of lean protein, one to two servings of a complex carbohydrate, and two to three servings of one or more vegetables.
Vegetarian meals are typically low-fat, since little to no animal products are used in the meals, which are one of the most common sources of fat. These low-fat dinners usually consist of a variety of fruits and vegetables with healthy portions of rice, pasta, or other carbohydrate sources. In place of animal protein, which is found in other types of low-fat dinners, beans, nuts and legumes are often used in its place, and many of these items tend to have lower-fat content than animal products. Depending on the type of meal, milk, eggs, or cheese may also be used; however, as these tend to contain a fair amount of fat, the meal will either have very limited portions of these or consist of low-fat versions. To make up for flavor, a wide array of aromatics, herbs, and spices are often used in these types of low-fat dinner to add taste without fat.
Soups without any cream or milk are often overlooked as a low-fat dinner. If all of the components of a soup were served separately, they would typically be dressed or cooked with additional fat, or one would require a larger portion to feel satisfied. On the other hand, typically the only sources of fat necessary in a soup comes from animal proteins, which can be reduced by using lean cuts of meat, a small amount in the broth, and with any oil or butter used to saute or brown the meat or vegetables prior to making the soup. Vegetable, chicken or beef broth can be combined with a variety of spices, vegetables, and grains to make a complete, low-fat dinner in one pot. Generally, soups are also a great way to make smaller amounts of meat, a common source of fat, serve a larger amount of people while naturally reducing the fat and calorie content of the dish.