After a month of indulgence, January is all about balance. Low calorie dinners help you control portion sizes, reduce empty calories, and feel lighter in the evenings. The key is not to skip meals or compromise on taste — instead, focus on meals that are filling, packed with protein and vegetables, and easy to prepare.

Using appliances like the slow cooker and air fryer makes this even easier. The slow cooker lets flavours develop over time with minimal effort, while the air fryer gives you crispy textures without excess oil. Both tools are ideal for low calorie cooking, helping you enjoy your food while keeping calories in check.

Before we dive into the recipes, here are a few tips to make your low calorie dinners even more successful:

• Plan your meals: Having a plan makes it easier to avoid last-minute unhealthy choices.
• Prioritise protein: Protein keeps you full and helps prevent snacking later in the evening.
• Load up on vegetables: Vegetables are low in calories, high in fibre, and add colour and texture to any meal.
• Use healthy cooking methods: Steaming, grilling, air frying, or slow cooking are great ways to keep meals low calorie without losing flavour.
• Batch cook: Preparing meals in advance or using leftovers can save time and prevent reaching for higher-calorie convenience options.

Here are some of my favourite low calorie dinner recipes that are perfect for January. They’re simple, family-friendly, and use either the air fryer or slow cooker for easy preparation.

January doesn’t have to mean bland, boring meals. By focusing on simple, low calorie dinner recipes, you can enjoy satisfying meals without feeling deprived. The air fryer and slow cooker are invaluable tools, making it easy to prepare healthy dinners even on busy nights.Start small. Try one or two recipes this week and see how much simpler healthy eating can be. With a few simple swaps and some clever cooking, low calorie dinners can be tasty, filling, and perfect for starting the year on the right foot.