What I Eat for Tea: Easy, Tasty & Calorie-Friendly Dinners

When it comes to evening meals—whether you call it tea, dinner, or supper—I always keep things simple, tasty, and within my calories. The best part? You don’t have to eat “diet” food to lose weight. You can eat what you love, just in a more controlled way.

So today, I’m sharing my go-to evening meals, some of my favourite low-calorie options, and how I bulk up my meals to feel full and satisfied.

1. Fish Steaks – Quick, Easy & Low-Calorie

I’m not a massive fish eater, but these fish steaks from Heron have won me over. At just 100 calories per portion, I usually have two and bulk them out with fresh veg—carrots, broccoli, and my favourite carrot chips in the air fryer.

✔ 100 calories per steak
✔ Great source of protein
✔ Pair with loads of veg for a filling meal

They come with a sauce, which helps since I don’t like fish that tastes overly “fishy.” A total win for me!

2. Aldi Pies – Yes, You Can Eat Pies & Lose Weight!

Pies are known for being high-calorie, but these Aldi pies are only 347 calories each—and they taste amazing.

✔ Alternative: Asda’s chicken & bacon pies are 281 calories each
✔ Serve with loads of veg & gravy instead of heavy sides
✔ Swap mash for Yorkshire puddings (51 calories each!)

I personally prefer Yorkshire puddings over mash, and these frozen ones make life easier. Of course, if it’s Christmas or Easter, I’ll make my own from scratch, but for everyday meals, convenience wins.

3. Aldi Chicken Steaks – Perfect for Quick Dinners

These chicken steaks from Aldi are another go-to, especially when I want something quick and easy.

✔ 174 calories per steak
✔ Great with salad, rice, or roasted veg
✔ Ideal for busy nights when you don’t want to cook from scratch

I grabbed some again recently because I hadn’t had them in a while, and I was reminded how good and filling they are.

4. Aldi Chicken Kievs – My Ultimate Favourite!

I LOVE these Aldi Chicken Kievs—they’re honestly my favourite.

✔ 387 calories each (but they’re massive)
✔ Crispy outside, packed with flavour
✔ Surprisingly good with gravy & broccoli

I know it sounds odd—Kiev with gravy—but trust me, it works! When I first posted it, people thought I was weird, but now loads of you have tried it and agree it’s delicious!

5. Aldi Burgers – A Lighter Take on a Classic

I love a good juicy burger, but they can be high in calories. That’s why I grab these Aldi burgers—just 137 calories each!

✔ Serve in a low-calorie bread roll
✔ Add a cheese slice & burger sauce (M&S one is my fave)
✔ Pair with chips or a big salad

I forgot to pick up bread buns, but I’ll be going back to grab some. Simple, tasty, and family-friendly!

6. M&S Reduced Pizza – A Handy Freezer Staple

I picked up this M&S pizza for £2.55 last week to keep in the freezer for those nights when the kids want pizza.

✔ 410 calories per pizza
✔ Big enough for a satisfying meal
✔ Great to have on hand for a quick dinner

This isn’t an everyday meal, but it’s good to have a back-up option rather than ordering a takeaway.

7. Roasted Veg – The Perfect Side Dish

I absolutely love roasted veg—it’s such an easy way to bulk out meals.

✔ 87 calories per half pack (I eat the full pack!)
✔ Pairs well with chicken, fish, or even a burger
✔ Adds flavour, volume & nutrients to meals

I usually eat the whole pack because the kids won’t touch it, but that’s fine because I love it!

How I Meal Plan (Without Really Planning!)

Now, some people plan their meals for the week—which is great if it works for you. But I don’t do a strict meal plan.

✔ I go shopping with a simple list: meat, veg, salad, snacks.
✔ I pick up whatever looks good or is on offer.
✔ When I get home, I mix & match—“Oh, these two will go well together.”

It’s flexible, easy, and stress-free. Some people love detailed meal plans, but you don’t have to meal prep everything in advance to stay on track.

The Key to Long-Term Success? Eat Normal Food!

The biggest mistake people make when trying to lose weight is thinking they have to eat boring, plain food.

✔ You can eat normal, everyday meals.
✔ You just need to control portions & stay within your calories.
✔ Bulk out meals with lots of veg & salad to stay full.

Right now, as the weather warms up (well, sort of!), I’m shifting towards big salads. I’ll still eat soups and warm meals, but salad season is officially here!

Final Thoughts

This post (along with my breakfast and snack ideas) should give you a full picture of what I eat in a typical week.

✔ You don’t need to eat “diet” food—just eat smarter.
✔ Find swaps that work for you (like pies & Yorkshire puddings instead of mash).
✔ Bulk out meals with veggies to stay full and satisfied.
✔ Do what works for YOU—whether that’s meal planning or shopping like me.

And most importantly—enjoy your food! This is why calorie counting works so well. You can eat what you love and still reach your goals.

Now go try some of these meals & let me know what you think!