25+ Recipes for Cooking for One: Easy, Healthy, Low-Carb & Vegetarian Meals

Cooking for one can sometimes feel like a drag, right? 

You end up making the same old thing or, worse, just grabbing takeout because it feels easier. 

But cooking for yourself can actually be fun and way more rewarding than you think. 

Seriously, it’s your chance to get creative and whip up whatever you’re craving, without having to please anyone else.

I’ve been there, staring at the fridge, wondering what the heck to make for dinner when it’s just me. 

That’s why I’ve put together this guide full of easy, healthy, low-carb, and even vegetarian recipes that are perfect for one. No crazy ingredients, no wasting food—just simple, tasty meals you’ll actually enjoy cooking.

So if you’re ready to kick the boring meals and get into cooking things that feel good, this guide’s got you covered. 

Grab your favorite snack (or wine, I won’t judge), and let’s dive in.

Easy Recipes for One

Look, cooking for one doesn’t need to be fancy or complicated. 

Sometimes, the best meals are the simplest ones—just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of time. 

So if you’re feeling like you don’t have the energy to cook, don’t worry. 

These recipes are quick, easy, and will still have you feeling like a total pro in the kitchen. Plus, they’re really satisfying without all the stress.

So, grab what you’ve got in the fridge, throw it together, and get cooking—no pressure, just good food.

1. One-Pan Chicken & Veggie Bake

This one’s super easy and perfect for when you just want something tasty with barely any effort. Toss it all on a pan, let the oven work its magic, and you’re done.

Ingredients:

• 1 chicken breast
• 1/2 cup broccoli florets
• 1 small sweet potato (peeled and cubed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a baking sheet, lay the chicken breast flat in the center.
3. Arrange the broccoli and sweet potato cubes around the chicken.
4. Drizzle everything with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
5. Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Slice the chicken and serve with the roasted veggies. Enjoy.

2. Avocado Toast with Poached Eggs

It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s a classic for a reason. Plus, it’s a great way to start your day or enjoy a light dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 slice whole-grain bread
• 1/2 avocado
• 1 egg
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Optional: chili flakes for a little heat

Instructions:

1. Toast your slice of bread in a toaster or on a pan until it’s golden brown.
2. While the bread is toasting, bring a small pot of water to a simmer (not a rolling boil). Crack your egg into a small bowl.
3. Once the water is simmering, gently slide the egg into the water and cook for about 3-4 minutes for a soft poach (or longer for firmer eggs).
4. While the egg is poaching, mash the avocado on your toasted bread. Add salt, pepper, and chili flakes if you like.
5. Once the egg is done, gently place it on top of the avocado toast. Slice and serve.

3. Stir-Fried Veggies with Tofu 

A quick, healthy meal that’s packed with flavor and made in one pan. You can mix and match veggies to your liking.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 block firm tofu (pressed and cubed)
• 1/2 bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 zucchini, sliced
• 1/2 cup spinach
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat.
2. Add the cubed tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove the tofu from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add the bell pepper and zucchini and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they soften.
4. Add the spinach and stir until it wilts, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Toss the tofu back into the pan, add soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic powder, and stir to combine.
6. Serve hot and enjoy your veggie-packed meal.

4. 15-Minute Pasta Primavera 

A light, fresh pasta dish that’s done in 15 minutes. It’s so quick you won’t believe it.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup pasta (any kind you like)
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup spinach
• 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil, add a pinch of salt, and cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes and spinach to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
4. Drain the pasta and add it to the pan with the tomatoes and spinach.
5. Stir in Parmesan, salt, and pepper, and toss everything together.
6. Serve hot, and sprinkle a little extra Parmesan if you want.

5. Scrambled Eggs with Spinach & Feta

Quick, easy, and packed with protein—this one’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Ingredients:

• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup spinach
• 2 tablespoons crumbled feta
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Heat a pan over medium heat and add a little oil or butter.
3. Add the spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until it wilts.
4. Pour the whisked eggs into the pan and gently stir until they begin to set.
5. Once the eggs are almost done, sprinkle feta cheese over the top and stir until it’s melted into the eggs.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy a fluffy, protein-packed meal.

Healthy Recipes for One

I get it, healthy food can feel like a chore sometimes, but these recipes are actually fun to make—and they don’t take forever. 

Just good, simple ingredients that make you feel good without stressing you out.

1. Grilled Salmon with Roasted Veggies 

This is one of my absolute favorites because it’s light, filling, and doesn’t take much time. Plus, it’s packed with healthy fats from the salmon.

Ingredients:

• 1 salmon fillet
• 1/2 cup broccoli florets
• 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill or stovetop pan to medium-high heat.
2. Drizzle the salmon fillet with olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and a little lemon juice if you have it.
3. Place the salmon on the grill or in the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until it flakes easily with a fork.
4. While the salmon cooks, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. On a baking sheet, spread the broccoli and bell pepper, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 15-20 minutes until the veggies are tender.
6. Serve the salmon with the roasted veggies and enjoy.

2. Quinoa & Chickpea Salad 

This one is so refreshing, and it’s perfect for meal prepping because it keeps well in the fridge for a couple of days.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
• 1/4 cup canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• 1/4 cucumber, diced
• 1/4 red onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, cucumber, and red onion.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then toss everything together.
3. Season with salt and pepper, and sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like.
4. Serve it chilled or at room temperature, and you’ve got a light, healthy meal.

3. Sweet Potato & Black Bean Bowl

This is a filling, plant-based meal that’s both hearty and full of nutrients. 

The sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness, and the black beans provide protein.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
• 1/4 cup canned black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1/4 avocado, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon salsa (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a baking sheet, toss the cubed sweet potato with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes until tender, flipping halfway through.
4. Once the sweet potatoes are done, layer them in a bowl. Add black beans, avocado slices, and a little salsa on top if you like.
5. Serve hot or at room temperature for a filling, healthy meal.

4. Greek Yogurt Parfait 

This one’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Greek yogurt is packed with protein, and the berries bring a nice touch of sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup fresh mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 cup granola

Instructions:

1. In a bowl or glass, layer the Greek yogurt, fresh berries, and granola.
2. Drizzle with honey and top with more berries if you’re feeling extra.
3. Enjoy immediately, or refrigerate for a quick grab-and-go snack later.

5. Veggie-Packed Omelette 

Omelettes are a great way to get your veggies in without spending a ton of time. 

Add any veggies you’ve got in your fridge, and you’ve got a protein-packed, healthy meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup spinach
• 1/4 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1/4 cup tomatoes, diced
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon olive oil or butter

Instructions:

1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add olive oil or butter.
3. Add the mushrooms and tomatoes to the pan and cook for about 3 minutes until they soften.
4. Add the spinach and cook until it wilts, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Pour the whisked eggs into the pan, tilting the pan to spread them evenly.
6. Once the eggs start to set, flip the omelette and cook for another minute.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy your veggie-packed protein boost.

Low-Carb Recipes for One

Okay, so low-carb doesn’t have to mean boring. 

These recipes are quick, satisfying, and don’t leave you craving carbs an hour later. 

Simple meals that taste amazing and actually keep you full—what’s not to love?

1. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto 

This dish is a fantastic low-carb alternative to pasta, and the pesto adds so much flavor. It’s a simple, satisfying meal you can whip up in no time.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles
• 2 tablespoons pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Using a spiralizer, turn the zucchini into noodles. If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can use a vegetable peeler to create long, thin ribbons.
2. Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté the zucchini noodles for 2-3 minutes, just until they’re tender.
3. Add the pesto to the pan and toss everything together until the noodles are coated.
4. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for another minute.
5. Serve immediately, seasoned with salt and pepper to taste.

2. Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry 

Cauliflower rice is a great low-carb alternative to regular rice, and it absorbs flavors beautifully. This stir-fry is quick, easy, and packed with veggies.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cauliflower rice (you can buy it pre-made or pulse cauliflower in a food processor until rice-sized)
• 1/2 bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 onion, diced
• 1/4 cup frozen peas
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
• 1 egg (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat a pan over medium heat and add the diced bell pepper, onion, and peas. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the veggies soften.
2. Push the veggies to the side of the pan and scramble the egg in the empty space (optional).
3. Add the cauliflower rice to the pan and stir everything together.
4. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil, and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve hot, and enjoy your low-carb stir-fry.

3. Lettuce Wraps with Grilled Chicken 

These lettuce wraps are light, fresh, and packed with protein, making them a perfect low-carb lunch or dinner option.

Ingredients:

• 1 chicken breast, grilled and sliced
• 4 large lettuce leaves (iceberg or romaine work best)
• 1/4 avocado, sliced
• 1 tablespoon salsa
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Grill or pan-cook the chicken breast until it’s fully cooked, then slice it into strips.
2. Lay the lettuce leaves flat on a plate.
3. Place the sliced chicken in the center of each leaf, then top with avocado slices and a spoonful of salsa.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Wrap up the lettuce around the filling and enjoy a fresh, low-carb meal.

4. Eggplant Lasagna 

Who says lasagna has to be loaded with pasta? This low-carb version uses eggplant slices to replace the noodles, making it just as hearty and comforting.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium eggplant, sliced into thin rounds
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce (check for no added sugar)
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the eggplant into thin rounds, and lightly brush both sides with olive oil.
3. Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet and roast for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender.
4. In a baking dish, layer the eggplant slices, ricotta cheese, marinara sauce, and mozzarella, repeating the layers as you go.
5. Finish with a layer of mozzarella on top.
6. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot, and enjoy your low-carb lasagna.

5. Grilled Shrimp & Avocado Salad 

This salad is light, full of healthy fats, and a perfect low-carb option for lunch or dinner. The grilled shrimp adds that protein punch to keep you full.

Ingredients:

• 6-8 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 avocado, sliced
• 2 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, etc.)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Juice of 1/2 lime
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lime juice, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they’re pink and opaque.
3. In a bowl, toss the mixed greens, avocado slices, and cooked shrimp.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and the remaining lime juice.
5. Serve immediately, and enjoy this fresh, low-carb salad.

Vegetarian Recipes for One

If you think vegetarian meals are all salads and bland stuff, think again. 

These recipes are full of flavor, super easy to make, and perfect for when you want something light but still totally satisfying. 

You won’t miss the meat, promise.

1. Stuffed Bell Peppers 

These stuffed peppers are easy to make and totally customizable with whatever veggies or grains you have. 

They’re a great vegetarian meal packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green)
• 1/4 cup cooked quinoa (or rice)
• 1/4 cup black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the top off the bell pepper and remove the seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff the bell pepper with the quinoa mixture and place it in a baking dish.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top of the stuffed pepper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the pepper is tender.
7. Top with cilantro (optional) and serve hot.

2. Chickpea Salad Sandwich 

This is an easy, satisfying lunch or dinner that’s packed with protein and fiber, plus it’s a great way to use up pantry ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 2 slices whole-grain bread
• Lettuce and tomato slices (optional)

Instructions:

1. Mash the chickpeas in a bowl with a fork until they’re mostly smashed, but still a little chunky.
2. Add the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine.
3. Toast the bread to your liking and spread the chickpea mixture on one slice of bread.
4. Top with lettuce and tomato slices if you like, then close the sandwich.
5. Serve with your favorite side, and enjoy this protein-packed vegetarian meal.

3. Coconut Lentil Curry 

This hearty, flavorful curry is packed with protein from the lentils and has a creamy, rich texture from the coconut milk. 

It’s comforting, filling, and perfect for a cozy meal.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup red lentils (rinsed)
• 1/2 can coconut milk
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
2. Add the garlic, turmeric, cumin, and curry powder. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the red lentils, coconut milk, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir everything together.
4. Pour in 1 cup of water and bring to a simmer. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the curry has thickened.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning, if needed.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve hot.

4. Spinach & Feta Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms 

These stuffed mushrooms are easy to make and packed with flavor. Plus, they’re a great low-carb option for vegetarians.

Ingredients:

• 2 large Portobello mushrooms
• 1/4 cup spinach, chopped
• 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems.
3. Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat, and sauté the spinach for about 1-2 minutes until wilted.
4. Remove the pan from heat and mix the cooked spinach with the crumbled feta.
5. Stuff each mushroom cap with the spinach and feta mixture, then place them on a baking sheet.
6. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender.
7. Serve hot and enjoy these delicious, cheesy mushrooms.

5. Veggie Burger with Avocado

This veggie burger is made with black beans and oats, making it a filling and healthy vegetarian meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup canned black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 2 tablespoons oats
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small avocado, sliced
• 1 whole-grain bun

Instructions:

1. Mash the black beans in a bowl with a fork until mostly smooth but still a little chunky.
2. Add the oats, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and mix everything together.
3. Form the mixture into a patty and cook in a heated pan with olive oil for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden and crispy.
4. Toast the whole-grain bun and assemble the burger with the patty and avocado slices.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy your veggie-packed burger.

Most Popular Cooking for One Recipes

We all have those go-to meals that just hit the spot, right? 

These recipes are the ones people love, and for good reason. 

They’re simple, comforting, and totally satisfying—perfect for when you want something familiar and easy.

1. Classic Spaghetti Aglio e Olio 

This Italian classic is so simple yet full of flavor. Perfect for a quick and satisfying solo dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, and reserve a bit of pasta water.
2. In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan, tossing it with the garlic oil. If it looks dry, add a little pasta water.
4. Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

2. Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup 

It’s a timeless combo that’s comforting, filling, and super easy to make just for one.

Ingredients:

• 2 slices whole-grain bread
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 slices cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• 1/2 cup canned tomato soup (or homemade if you prefer)
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the butter in a pan over medium heat. Place the slices of cheese between the bread and grill the sandwich on both sides until golden brown.
2. While the sandwich cooks, heat the tomato soup in a small pot over low heat.
3. Once the grilled cheese is ready, cut it in half and serve alongside the warm soup.
4. Enjoy your classic comfort meal.

3. Chicken Quesadilla 

If you’ve got some chicken on hand, this is one of the easiest, most satisfying meals you can make.

Ingredients:

• 1 small chicken breast (cooked and shredded)
• 1 whole wheat tortilla
• 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 tablespoon salsa (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Place the tortilla in the pan, and sprinkle the cheese and shredded chicken on one half.
3. Once the cheese starts to melt, fold the tortilla in half and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
4. Slice and serve with salsa on the side, if desired.

4. Single-Serve Meatloaf 

Meatloaf is a favorite for many, and this version is perfect for cooking just for one.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Shape the mixture into a small loaf and place it on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, until fully cooked.
5. Slice and enjoy your perfect solo meatloaf.

5. Classic Mac and Cheese 

Everyone loves mac and cheese, and making it for one doesn’t mean a ton of work. Plus, it’s creamy and comforting every time.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup elbow macaroni
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions.
2. In a separate pot, melt the butter over low heat. Add the milk and heat until warm, then stir in the cheese.
3. Once the cheese is melted and smooth, add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, and enjoy your creamy mac and cheese.

One Last Thing Before You Go

Before you run off and get cooking, just know that you’ve totally got this. 

Cooking for one can be so fun, and I promise it doesn’t have to be a huge ordeal. 

So next time you’re thinking of ordering takeout, grab one of these recipes instead—you’ll be surprised how easy and rewarding it is to make something for yourself.

And seriously, if you try any of these meals, I wanna hear about it. 

Tag me on Pinterest or leave a comment—let’s talk about what worked (and what maybe didn’t). 

Cooking for one is your chance to experiment, so don’t be afraid to switch things up and make it your own.

Alright, now go rock that kitchen. You’ve got this.