25 Healthy & Low-Calorie Breakfast Ideas

Overnight oats and berry parfait to poached eggs and zucchini pancakes, low-calorie breakfast foods are not just healthy but also packed with energy.

It goes without saying that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. And this meal should be fulfilling enough to offer sufficient energy to carry out your everyday tasks. Research ^[1]Science Direct: Breakfast: The most important meal of the day? suggests that breakfast should account for 15–25% of daily energy. Also, women should aim to consume 300 calories to 500 calories, and men should try consuming 375 calories–625 calories. However, some people opt for a low calories breakfast to achieve their weight-loss goals faster.

A low-calorie food option doesn’t mean it can’t be nutritious and filling. You can have a hearty breakfast that is filling and yet packs in a surprisingly low number of calories. From overnight oats and berry parfait to zucchini pancakes, there are a lot of low-calorie breakfast ideas that are not just healthy but also power-packed with energy. Try out the 25 low calorie breakfast ideas we have listed for you.

25 low-calorie healthy breakfast ideas

Wondering what healthy breakfast ideas are under 300 calories? Or need low-calorie, low-fat breakfast ideas for weight loss? From delicious cinnamon toast, or tangy avocado toast, to savory chickpea waffles, the low-calorie breakfast recipes given below are power-packed with nutrients and energy. They require little or no meal prep and are surprisingly easy to make. Here are our top 25 delicious recipes for a scrumptious low-cal morning meal.

1. Cinnamon Toast

This super delicious recipe offers just 92 calories. Use whole-wheat bread, stevia, and extra-virgin olive oil to prepare your morning toast.

2. Chickpea Waffles

This low-calorie breakfast recipe is loaded with the goodness of protein. Skip your ordinary wheat flour for this delicious recipe that uses chickpea flour, spinach, and Greek yogurt. 

3. Zucchini Pancakes

Zucchini-loaded pancakes are a great low-calorie breakfast option to rely on before your workout sessions. Top the pancakes with Greek yogurt or Agave nectar syrup. 

4. Peanut Butter Overnight Oats

Overnight oats infused with peanut butter are a great low-calorie breakfast option for busy mornings. Prep it at night, keep it in the fridge overnight, and eat it to your heart’s content in the morning, before or after your workout. 

5. Raspberry Cashew Smoothie

Raspberry cashew smoothie is a healthier version of a traditional raspberry smoothie. Rich in vitamin C, fiber, and protein, this low-calorie breakfast offers just 167 calories. 

6. Chia Pudding

Chia seeds ^[2]Harvard T.H. Chan: Chia Seeds offer a healthy dose of omega-3s along with calcium and fiber. This makes the chia pudding a versatile, low calorie breakfast option. You can add one scoop of protein powder, top the pudding with fresh or frozen berries, frozen bananas, or a chopped-up fresh fruit of your choice, like a freshly sliced banana, or garnish it with nuts or nut butter. 

7. Scrambled Egg & Mushrooms

If you love a good creamy scrambled egg at the start of the day, this is the perfect low-calorie breakfast for you, and this dish packs less than 100 calories!

8. Poached Egg & Avocado Toast With Tomato And Kale

This low-calorie breakfast is not only delicious but also nutritious. Avocado is a good source of healthy fat ^[3]National Library of Medicine: Hass Avocado Composition and Potential Health Effects, while kale is a nutrient-dense leafy green. This breakfast is guaranteed to keep you satisfied until lunch.

9. Hard-Boiled Egg, Tomato & Scallion Sandwich

This low-calorie breakfast sandwich is a great option if you’re on the go. It’s easy to make and can be made ahead of time. If you want, you can also add a bit of mustard to give it a delicious flavor.

Total calories: 220 calories 

Ingredients: One boiled egg(or more if you need a more filling meal) 1 tomato, 4 scallions, and a drizzle of oil.

How to prepare: Slice the hard-boiled eggs in half and set them aside. Thinly slice the tomato. Chop the scallions. In a small bowl, mix together with salt and pepper as per taste. Place everything on whole grain bread or a wrap and serve.

10. Overnight Chocolate Chia Oats

This low-calorie breakfast is perfect if you’re looking for something sweet and chocolatey. The chia seeds add a bit of texture and make the oats extra filling.

Total calories: 295 calories 

Ingredients: 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1 tablespoon chia seeds, 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/4 cup milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons honey

How to prepare: In a bowl or mason jar, combine the above-mentioned ingredients. Mix well and let sit in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, stir in the honey. Serve topped with fresh fruit, such as raspberries or blueberries. Enjoy!

11. Spinach & Feta Cheese Quiche With Sweet Potato Crust

This low-calorie quiche is a great option for breakfast or brunch. It’s packed with protein and nutrients, and the sweet potato crust makes it extra filling.

Total calories: 292 calories 

Ingredients: 1 large sweet potato, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1 cup chopped spinach, 1/4 cup crumbled feta, 1 large egg, 1 egg white, and a pinch of black pepper

How to prepare: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Pierce the sweet potato all over with a fork. Roast in the oven for 45 minutes to an hour until soft. Remove from oven and let cool. Meanwhile, in a bowl, whisk the eggs and egg whites together. In a greased tart pan or pie dish, spread out the sweet potato until it evenly covers the bottom of the dish. Add the chopped spinach, feta, and salt and mix well. Pour over the sweet potato crust into the dish. Bake

12. Low Carb Apple, Cinnamon & Peanut Butter Toast

This low-carb breakfast is a delicious and satisfying way to start your day. The combination of apple, cinnamon, and peanut butter is a classic flavor combo that will leave you feeling satisfied. Rich, satisfying, and filling, this recipe will keep you powered till lunch.

Total calories: 197 calories 

Ingredients: 1 slice of whole bread, 1 tablespoon peanut butter, 1/2 small apple, thinly sliced, and a sprinkle of cinnamon

How to prepare: Toast the bread. Spread on the peanut butter. Top with a finely chopped apple and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Enjoy!

13. Low-Calorie Huevos Rancheros

This low-calorie breakfast is a delicious and hearty way to start your day. A classic combination of flavors that will leave you feeling satisfied.

Total calories: 294 calories 

Ingredients: 1 egg, 1/4 cup salsa, 1/2 avocado diced, 1 slice of whole wheat bread, and 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped

How to prepare: In a small skillet, scramble the egg. Once cooked, add in the salsa and avocado. Mix well and let cook for another minute. Serve on a slice of whole wheat toast and top with cilantro. Enjoy! 

14. Vegan Pumpkin Seed Parfait

This low-calorie breakfast is perfect for Fall. This recipe is vegan, gluten-free, and packed with protein and good fats.

Total calories: 226 calories 

Ingredients: 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds, 1/4 cup almond milk, 1 tablespoon chia seeds, 1/2 cup diced fresh or frozen strawberries, and 2 tablespoons pure honey

How to prepare: In a bowl or jar, combine all the ingredients. Mix well and let sit in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, add the diced fresh or frozen strawberries and top with the remaining tablespoon of honey.

15. Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bowl

This low-calorie breakfast is perfect if you’re looking for a quick and easy recipe. Cottage cheese is a great source of protein, and the addition of fruit and nuts makes it a complete meal.

Total calories: 213 calories (per serving) 

Ingredients: 100 grams cottage cheese, 1/2 cup diced fresh or frozen strawberries, 1 tablespoon chopped pecans, and 2 tablespoons honey

How to prepare: In a bowl or jar, combine all the ingredients. Mix well and enjoy immediately.

16. Masala Chai Tea Baked Oatmeal

This low-calorie oatmeal recipe is a great option if you’re looking for something warm and comforting. The chai spices give it a rich, aromatic flavor, and the addition of raisins makes it extra satisfying.

Total calories: 179 calories 

Ingredients: 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 chai tea bag, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder, 1/8 teaspoon cardamom powder, and a pinch of salt

How to prepare: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Dip a tea bag in a cup of milk. In a bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger powder, cardamom powder, and salt. Mix well. Add in the chai tea, and stir until well combined. Pour the mixture into an oven-safe dish and bake for 20 minutes. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

17. Bell Pepper & Cheese Egg Cups

If you’re looking for a low-calorie breakfast that’s easy to make and packed with protein, these bell pepper and cheese egg cup is a great option. They’re perfect for the on-the-go and can be easily customized with your favorite toppings.

Total calories: 269 calories

Ingredients: 2 eggs, 1/4 cup shredded cheese, 1 bell pepper diced, and 1 tablespoon chopped chives, salt, and pepper (as per taste)

How to prepare: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a muffin tin with cooking spray. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, cheese, bell pepper, chives, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture into the prepared muffin tin, and bake for 20 minutes. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

18. Oatmeal With Banana & Berries

Banana berry oatmeal is a great breakfast choice you can make. It is filled with fiber and antioxidants, and the addition of berries makes it extra delicious.

Total calories: 273 calories

Ingredients: 1/2 cup rolled oats, Half sliced banana, 1/2 cup diced fresh berries, and 1/4 tablespoon almond butter

How to prepare: In a bowl, take the rolled oats and add half-sliced banana, berries, and almond butter. Mix well and have it immediately.

19. Smoked Salmon Avocado Toast

Breakfast with salmon is perfect if you’re looking for something filling and satisfying. The healthy fats in the salmon and avocado will keep you feeling full until lunchtime, and the lemon juice adds a delicious zing.

Total calories: 265 calories 

Ingredients: 1 slice whole grain bread, 1/2 mashed medium avocado, 2 ounces smoked salmon, and 1 teaspoon lemon juice

How to prepare: Toast the bread slice and then top it with mashed avocado, smoked salmon, and lemon juice. Enjoy immediately.

20. Roasted Grape Toast With Almond Butter

If you love quick and easy low calories breakfast ideas, then this one is for you. It’s packed with healthy fats and protein, and the grapes add a touch of sweetness. 

Total calories: 216 calories 

Ingredients: 1 slice whole grain bread, 1 tablespoon almond butter, 1/4 cup roasted grapes, and 1 teaspoon honey

How to prepare: Toast the bread slice and then top it with almond butter, roasted grapes, and honey. Enjoy immediately.

21. Overnight Oats Cinnamon Roll 

This is a low-calorie and low-effort breakfast that can keep you full. It’s loaded with fiber and protein, and the cinnamon gives it a delicious flavor. 

Total calories: 210 calories 

Ingredients: 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1/4 cup almond milk, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon raisins

How to prepare: In a bowl, take the rolled oats and add almond milk, cinnamon, and raisins. Mix well and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, microwave the oats for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Enjoy immediately.

22. Scrambled Eggs & Vegetable Skillet

This easy-to-make low-calorie breakfast is loaded with protein, vegetables, and herbs that are not only delicious but also healthy. 

Total calories: 275 calories 

Ingredients: 1 teaspoon olive oil, 1 egg, 2 boiled baby potatoes, 1 cup sliced mushrooms, 1 Bell pepper,  1 tablespoon chopped herbs, and salt and pepper (as per taste)

How to prepare: In a skillet, heat olive oil and scramble the eggs. Add the chopped vegetables, herbs, salt, and pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender and the eggs are cooked to your liking. Enjoy immediately.

23. Pomegranate Toast With Peanut Butter

This is a simple, healthy, and yummy breakfast option you can add to your list.  It’s filled with healthy fats and protein, and the pomegranate adds a touch of sweetness.

Total calories: 210 calories 

Ingredients: 1 slice whole grain bread, 1 tablespoon peanut butter, 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds, and 1 teaspoon honey

How to prepare: Toast the bread slice and then top it with peanut butter, pomegranate seeds, and a drizzle of honey. Enjoy immediately.

24. Pesto and Parmesan Eggs

We all love healthy yet lip-smacking breakfast ideas. This is one of those. It’s loaded with protein and flavor. Additionally, pesto and Parmesan add a delicious zing.

Total calories: 273 calories 

Ingredients: 1 teaspoon olive oil, 1 egg, 2 tablespoons pesto, 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese, 2 sliced cherry tomatoes.

How to prepare: In a skillet, heat olive oil and scramble the eggs. Add the pesto and Parmesan cheese. Cook until the eggs are cooked. Toss it with sliced cherry tomatoes. Your breakfast is ready.

25. Pecan Butter & Apple Toast

This one’s packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Apple adds a touch of sweetness, and it’s healthy. 

Total calories: 220 calories 

Ingredients: 1 slice whole grain bread, 1 tablespoon pecan butter, 1/2 small apple, and 1 teaspoon honey

How to prepare: Toast the bread slice and then top it with pecan butter, sliced apple, and honey. Enjoy immediately.

Healthy breakfast tips to kickstart your day

Planning, preparing and consuming a low calories breakfast doesn’t have to be a tiresome task. There are ways to make your breakfast healthy, nutritious, and satisfying. Follow these healthy tips to begin your mornings:

• Kick start your day with fruits & vegetables. Try high-fiber and low-calorie fruits & veggies and add them to your salads, toasts, and smoothies. 
• Consume whole foods and opt for natural and organic versions. For instance – fresh organic strawberries are way healthier than strawberry tarts. 
• Try nutritional yeast as it’s loaded with B vitamins. Top it over an omelet or add it to egg scrambles. 
• Consume more high fiber foods, such as berries, oatmeal, carrots, spinach, broccoli, and avocado. 
• Choose healthy fat sources, such as nuts, peanut or almond butter, seeds, olive or coconut oil, and avocado.
• Eat whole grains to increase fiber content in your breakfast. Good sources are whole-wheat pasta, brown rice, oatmeal, buckwheat, barley, and so on.
• Include a good quality protein source in the first meal of the day. This can be almond butter, oats, protein bar, and cottage cheese.
• Ditch sugary dishes such as muffins, donuts, pastries, and sugary cereals. 
• Level up your antioxidant content by consuming antioxidant-rich foods, such as apples, bell peppers, onions, spinach, and carrots. 
• Stock up on healthy foods in your pantry well in advance. This is a great tip for those having busy mornings. 
• Stay hydrated by consuming healthy fluids. Start your day with a glass/cup of water, coconut water, lemon water, fresh juice, or green tea.

Nutritional details of a low-calorie healthy breakfast

There are tons of healthy breakfast recipes that are low on calories. Each one comes with its own set of nutritional details. For instance- a small bowl of sprout salad (100 grams) is one of the healthiest breakfast foods to consider. Now, if you ask, “how many calories does this breakfast option provide?” The answer is – only 35 calories! 

Besides being low on fat and total calories, a bowl of sprout salad (100 grams) is loaded with powerful antioxidants, enzymes, vitamins, and minerals. Plus, the salad has high fiber content, which aids in weight loss. The chart given below provides the nutritional details of 100 grams of sprout salad. 

Before we present some healthy diet breakfast ideas, let us give you a gist of the prerequisites of low-cal healthy breakfasts.

Prerequisites of a low-calorie healthy breakfast

As mentioned above, the total calories for breakfast should be 300 calories to 500 calories if you are a woman and 375–625 calories if you are a man. Besides this, the low-calorie breakfast options you rely on should be able to provide enough fiber, healthy fats, and high-quality protein. An ideal healthy, low-calorie breakfast should have:

• About 8 grams of fiber. Include plenty of fruits like berries, grapes, and vegetables like lettuce and broccoli in your diet.
• At least 20 grams of protein. Rely on high-quality protein foods such as chicken breast, cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, and eggs.
• Nearly 10 grams of healthy fats. Remember to avoid any form of saturated fat. Try nuts, seeds, nut butters, and olive or coconut oil.

Benefits and risks of a low-calorie breakfast

Whether you are trying to shed that extra fat from your belly or want to make healthier choices when it comes to breakfast, low-calorie healthy breakfast ideas are the best route to take. A low-calorie breakfast does not have to be unfulfilling. To keep your hunger pangs at bay and get the desired macronutrients, you should choose healthy options that provide enough fiber, lean protein, and healthy fats. 

Unfortunately, some people restrict their calorie intake to such an extent that they do not get the desired energy and feel sluggish throughout the day. This is why a low-calorie breakfast can come with its own set of pros and cons. 

Benefits of a low-calorie breakfast	Risks of a low-calorie breakfast
Helps lose weight	Causes deficiencies if not well-balanced
Can be fulfilling if planned well	Increases hunger pangs
Reduces the risk of illness	Affects energy levels

Conclusion

As breakfast is the most vital meal of the day, it is indispensable to ensure it is a nutritious, fulfilling, and healthy meal. If you are trying to lose weight, low-calorie breakfast options can help you. Just make sure the calories aren’t restricted too much.

Also, always that you ensure to eat healthy, in the sense that your low-calorie breakfast is high in protein, rich in fiber, and low in unhealthy fats. After all, being satisfied and healthy is as important as counting calories and maintaining a healthy weight.