What Foods Are Low Calorie? 20 Delicious Foods & Snacks

  • By: Ann Williams
  • Time to read: 7 min.

What Foods Are Low Calorie?

Maintaining a healthy diet doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor or go hungry. In fact, there are a variety of tasty foods that are incredibly low in calories, making them perfect for guilt-free snacking.

So, what foods are low calorie, or foods that have almost zero calories?  While it’s not accurate to say that any food has absolutely zero calories, or “negative-calorie” but there are some foods that are very low in calories.

These 20 foods are not only delicious but also provide essential nutrients while keeping your calorie intake in check. Whether you’re looking to lose weight, or simply satisfy your cravings without feeling guilty, incorporating these low calorie foods into your diet is a smart choice.

You might also be interested in – 100 Calorie Snack Ideas

 

List Of Very Low Calorie Foods

Please note that the calories listed are approximate and can vary based on factors such as size, ripeness, type and cooking preparation. (kcal will be stated as calories. kJ = kilojoules)

Here is a list of 20 foods that are low in calories:

  1. Strawberries

Strawberries
Calories per 100g: 32 calories (134 kJ)
Serving size: 1 cup (144g) – approximately 46 calories (193 kJ)

These vibrant red berries are not only visually appealing but also packed with antioxidants and vitamin C.

With their naturally sweet taste and low-calorie content, strawberries are a delightful addition to any diet. Enjoy them fresh on their own, add them to yogurt or oatmeal, or use them as a topping for desserts. Indulge in the luscious flavor of strawberries while reaping their nutritional benefits.

Use strawberries on the recipe for – High Protein Yogurt Parfait 

 

  1. Celery

Calories per 100g: 16 calories (67 kJ)
Serving size: 1 medium stalk (40g) – approximately 6 calories (25 kJ)

Known for its fibrous stalks and satisfying crunch, celery is a staple in weight-loss diets. With only a handful of calories per serving, it’s a versatile vegetable that can be dipped in hummus, added to stir-fries, or used as a base in soups.

 

  1. Grapefruit

Grapefruit
Calories per 100g: 42 calories (176 kJ)
Serving size: 1 medium grapefruit (230g) – approximately 97 calories (406 kJ)

Known for its tangy taste, grapefruit is a citrus fruit that offers a refreshing burst of flavor.

With its high water content and fiber, it can help promote feelings of fullness. Whether enjoyed on its own, added to salads, or squeezed into a glass of juice, grapefruit is a low-calorie fruit that is also rich in vitamins A and C. Start your day with a zesty grapefruit to kick-start your metabolism and support your overall health.

 

  1. Spinach

Calories per 100g: 23 calories (96 kJ)
Serving size: 1 cup (30g) – approximately 7 calories (29 kJ)

Popeye’s favorite leafy green is not only rich in iron but also extremely low in calories. Packed with vitamins and minerals, spinach can be enjoyed raw in salads, sautéed as a side dish, stir fried, or blended into smoothies for an extra nutrient boost.

 

  1. Watermelon

watermelon
Calories per 100g: 30 calories (126 kJ)
Serving size: 1 cup diced (152g) – approximately 46 calories (193 kJ)

Nothing beats the refreshing sweetness of watermelon, especially on a hot summer day. This hydrating fruit is not only low in calories but also high in water content, making it a perfect choice for quenching your thirst.

Enjoy a slice of watermelon as a snack, blend it into a refreshing smoothie, or toss it into a fruit salad for a burst of flavor.

 

  1. Mushrooms

mushrooms

Calories per 100g: 22 calories (92 kJ)
Serving size: 1 cup sliced (70g) – approximately 15 calories (63 kJ)

Mushrooms are not only low in calories but also offer a meaty texture and umami flavor to various dishes.

Whether you sauté them as a side, stuff them for a flavorful appetizer, or add them to soups and stews, mushrooms are a delicious way to enhance your meals without adding excess calories.

 

  1. Oranges

oranges

Calories per 100g: 43 calories (180 kJ)
Serving size: 1 medium orange (131g) – approximately 56 calories (234 kJ)

Oranges are not only a tasty citrus fruit but also a nutritional powerhouse. Packed with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, oranges offer numerous health benefits. Their naturally sweet and tangy flavor makes them a popular choice for snacks, juices, or salad additions.

Peel an orange and enjoy the juicy segments guilt-free, knowing you’re nourishing your body with essential nutrients.

 

  1. Cauliflower

Cauliflower

Calories per 100g: 25 calories (105 kJ)
Serving size: 1 cup chopped (107g) – approximately 27 calories (113 kJ)

Cauliflower has gained popularity as a versatile ingredient that can mimic higher-calorie foods. From cauliflower fried rice, to pizza crusts and even mashed “potatoes,” this cruciferous vegetable is a great substitute for starchy options.

With its low calorie content and ability to absorb flavors, cauliflower is a must-have in any low-calorie kitchen.

 

  1. Tomatoes

Calories per 100g: 18 calories (75 kJ)
Serving size: 1 medium tomato (123g) – approximately 22 calories (92 kJ)

Juicy and bursting with flavor, tomatoes are not only a delicious addition to meals but also incredibly low in calories. Whether you enjoy them in salads, sauces, or simply sliced with a sprinkle of salt, tomatoes provide essential nutrients like lycopene and vitamin C. They add vibrant color and a tangy taste to your dishes without sabotaging your calorie goals.

 

  1. Bell peppers

Bell pepper

Calories per 100g: 31 calories (130 kJ)
Serving size: 1 medium pepper (186g) – approximately 58 calories (243 kJ)

Available in a variety of colors, bell peppers are not only visually appealing but also a great way to add crunch and sweetness to your meals. With their low calorie content, they can be enjoyed raw in salads, stir-fried, roasted, or sautéed with other vegetables.

Additionally, bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, making them a nutritious choice for any diet. I love the yellow ones, cut into slithers and eaten raw. Yummy!

 

  1. Radishes

Radishes

Calories per 100g: 16 calories (67 kJ)
Serving size: 1 cup sliced (116g) – approximately 19 calories (79 kJ)

Radishes may be small in size, but they are big on flavor and nutrition.

These crunchy root vegetables are an excellent source of fiber and vitamin C while remaining extremely low in calories. Add them to salads for a peppery kick, pickle them for a tangy condiment, or enjoy them on their own as a refreshing snack.

 

  1. Asparagus

Calories per 100g: 20 calories (84 kJ)
Serving size: 1 cup (134g) – approximately 27 calories (113 kJ)

With its distinctive flavor and tender texture, asparagus is a delightful addition to any meal. This nutrient-dense vegetable is low in calories and high in fiber, folate, and vitamins A and K. Whether you steam them, roast them, or grill them, asparagus spears make a flavorful side dish that pairs well with a variety of proteins.

 

  1. Kale

Calories per 100g: 20 calories (84 kJ)
Serving size: 1 cup (134g) – approximately 27 calories (113 kJ)

Kale has gained a well-deserved reputation as a superfood due to its impressive nutrient profile. This leafy green is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants while remaining low in calories.

Enjoy it raw in salads, sauté it with garlic as a flavorful side dish, or bake it into crispy kale chips for a guilt-free snack. Kale’s versatility and health benefits make it a favorite among health enthusiasts.

 

  1. Green beans

Calories per 100g: 31 calories (130 kJ)
Serving size: 1 cup (125g) – approximately 39 calories (163 kJ)

Green beans are a popular vegetable choice due to their vibrant color, crisp texture, and low-calorie content. They are a rich source of fiber, vitamins C and K, and folate.

Whether steamed, stir-fried, or added to casseroles, green beans offer a satisfying crunch and provide a healthy dose of nutrients to your meals.

 

  1. Brussels sprouts

Brussel sprouts

Calories per 100g: 43 calories (180 kJ)
Serving size: 1 cup (156g) – approximately 67 calories (281 kJ)

Brussels sprouts may have a bad reputation among picky eaters, but these mini cabbages are worth a second chance. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, Brussels sprouts are a nutritious and low-calorie option.

Roast them until caramelized, sauté them for added flavor, or shave them into a salad for a fresh twist.

 

  1. Zucchini

Calories per 100g: 17 calories (71 kJ)
Serving size: 1 cup sliced (124g) – approximately 21 calories (88 kJ)

With its mild flavor and versatile nature, zucchini is a popular choice among health-conscious individuals.

Whether spiralized into noodles, sliced and grilled, or added to baked goods for moisture, zucchini provides a low-calorie alternative to heavier ingredients while boosting your intake of vitamins and minerals.

 

  1. Iceberg lettuce

Calories per 100g: 14 calories (59 kJ)
Serving size: 1 cup shredded (72g) – approximately 10 calories (42 kJ)

Although iceberg lettuce is often criticized for its lower nutrient content compared to other leafy greens, it’s an excellent option for those seeking low-calorie alternatives. Its crisp leaves can add a refreshing crunch to salads, wraps, or as a bed for your favorite protein.

 

  1. Broccoli

Broccoli

Calories per 100g: 34 calories (142 kJ)
Serving size: 1 cup chopped (91g) – approximately 31 calories (130 kJ)

Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse that deserves a place on your plate.

Its crunchy texture and mild taste make it a versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed steamed, roasted, or added to stir-fries and casseroles. Plus, it provides a satisfying bulk to your meals without significantly increasing your calorie intake.

 

  1. Cucumber

Calories per 100g: 15 calories (63 kJ)
Serving size: 1 cup (104g) – approximately 16 calories (67 kJ)

Crisp, refreshing, and incredibly low in calories, cucumbers are a dieter’s best friend. With their high-water content and crunchy texture, cucumbers make a perfect addition to salads, sandwiches, or simply enjoyed as a snack.

 

  1. Lemons

Lemons

Calories per 100g: 29 calories (121 kJ)
Serving size: 1 fruit (58g) – approximately 17 calories (71 kJ)

Though lemons may not be consumed directly due to their sour taste, they are an incredibly versatile ingredient that adds a burst of flavor to various dishes. Whether squeezed into water for a refreshing drink, used in salad dressings or marinades, or added to seafood recipes, like tuna and salad.

Lemons are low in calories and high in vitamin C. They also provide a refreshing acidity that can elevate the taste of your meals without adding unnecessary calories.

 

Conclusion

Low calorie food list

Eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring or tasteless.

With these 20 almost calorie-free foods, you can indulge in a variety of flavors, textures, and nutrients while keeping your calorie intake in check. Incorporate these delicious options into your meals, snacks, and recipes to create a well-rounded and satisfying diet.

Enjoy the benefits of these low-calorie foods as you work towards achieving your health and wellness goals.

 

Resources & Extra Information

15 Bad Habits For Weight Loss To Be Aware Of

20 Healthy Foods To Buy At Trader Joe’s

Crispbread Recipe Ideas (Under 100 and 200 Calories)

A List Of Herb and Spice Substitutes

Dietary Guidelines for Americans