THE PULSE

Who says romance has to come with a side of food coma? Set the mood without the heaviness with these three healthy, mouthwatering dinners that are as easy to make as they are to fall in love with. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in, these recipes will impress your date—and leave you both feeling light, energized, and won't ruin all the hard work you're putting in at In-Shape.

1. Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms with a Balsamic Glaze 

Portobello mushrooms make the perfect base for this rich yet healthy dish. Stuffed with a creamy spinach and ricotta filling and topped with a sweet balsamic glaze, this meal is as elegant as it is nutritious. 

Ingredients: 

• 4 large Portobello mushrooms, stems removed 
• 1 cup ricotta cheese 
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped 
• 1 clove garlic, minced 
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar 
• 1 teaspoon honey 

Instructions: 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly brush the mushrooms with olive oil and place them on a baking sheet. 
2. In a bowl, mix ricotta, spinach, garlic, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Stuff each mushroom cap with the mixture. 
3. Bake for 20 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is slightly golden. 
4. While baking, heat balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan over low heat until slightly thickened. 
5. Drizzle the glaze over the stuffed mushrooms before serving. 

2. Zucchini Noodles with Turkey Meatballs and Marinara 

Swap out traditional pasta for zucchini noodles to keep things light while still enjoying the comfort of spaghetti and meatballs. 

Ingredients: 

• 3 medium zucchinis, spiralized 
• 1-pound lean ground turkey 
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs  
• 1 egg 
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder 
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 
• 2 cups marinara sauce (low sugar) 
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 
• Grated Parmesan and fresh basil for garnish 

Instructions: 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 
2. In a bowl, mix turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs and place on the baking sheet. 
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked. 
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté zucchini noodles for 2-3 minutes. 
5. Warm marinara sauce and add the cooked meatballs. Serve over zucchini noodles with Parmesan and basil. 

3. Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers with a Light Side Salad 

Loaded with protein and Mediterranean flavors, these stuffed peppers are a vibrant and tasty way to enjoy a healthy meal together. 

Ingredients: 

• 4 bell peppers, halved and seeds removed 
• 1 cup cooked quinoa 
• 1/2 cup canned chickpeas, drained 
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, diced 
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled 
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 
• Salt and pepper to taste 

For the Salad: 

• 4 cups mixed greens 
• 1/2 cucumber, sliced 
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced 
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice 
• Salt and pepper to taste 

Instructions: 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Place bell peppers in a baking dish. 
2. In a bowl, mix quinoa, chickpeas, tomatoes, feta, oregano, garlic powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stuff each bell pepper half with the mixture. 
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes until peppers are tender. 
4. Toss the salad ingredients together and serve alongside the stuffed peppers. 

Each of these meals is packed with flavor and nutrients while keeping the evening light and satisfying. So set the table, dim the lights, and enjoy a delicious, healthy date night at home!