A collection of nourishing, quick and easy anti-inflammatory recipes, including options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, vegetarian, and kid-friendly recipes.

collage of four images of anti inflammatory recipes on navy background with pink text

It’s no secret that I’m a big fan of quick and easy nourishing meals loaded with good-for-you ingredients!

Because when it comes to anti-inflammatory meals, simple and fuss-free recipes make life so much easier!

To help you make easy meals possible every day, I’ve gathered all of my quick and easy recipes for you, so you can find more simplicity in your weekly meals.

Table of Contents

You can click on each category below to go straight to that section of recipes:

Breakfast Recipes

Lunch Recipes

Kid Friendly Recipes

Vegetarian Recipes

What Makes These Recipes Anti-Inflammatory

I put together this list of recipes based on the basics of an anti-inflammatory diet found in this article, Ways to Make The Most of an Anti- Inflammatory Diet and Food List, as well as this Foods that Fight Inflammation article from Harvard Health.

These Recipes Are

Loaded with plant-based fiber.

Packed with plant-power from fruits and veggies.

Rich in healthy fats, and flavored with anti-inflammatory herbs and spices like turmeric as well as green tea.

Free of trans fats and refined sugar.

Contain Harvard Health recommended anti-inflammatory foods such as tomatoes, olive oil, leafy vegetables, fruits, and nuts.

Note: As always, if you’re following a specific diet for health reasons, consult with your doctor or registered dietitian for specific health advice and check out our nutrition disclaimer for more information.

These Recipes Are

Tip: Looking for more easy anti-inflammatory recipes? Check out this collection of simple Anti-Inflammatory Slow Cooker Recipes!

Breakfast

matcha protein shake in a clear glass with straw on a white marble background
5 stars (6 ratings)

Matcha Protein Shake

Packed with protein, this matcha protein shake is made with matcha, spinach, and protein powder for a nourishing, filling way to start your day.
Ingredients: banana, matcha powder, vanilla protein powder, spinach, ground flax seed, milk of choice, and ice (optional).
go to recipe
three jars of protein chia pudding topped with fresh berries on a blue and white background
4.84 stars (6 ratings)

Protein Chia Pudding

If you’ve been searching for a sweet (but still protein-packed breakfast option), then have I got the recipe for you! Packed with protein and super-fast to prepare ahead, this protein chia pudding makes an easy, breezy protein snack or breakfast perfect for wherever your day might take you. The best part is that everything comes together in just a mason jar (pretty much the simplest meal prep situation ever, with no cooking required).
Ingredients: chia seeds, almond milk (or milk of choice), protein powder, and honey/ maple syrup (optional).
go to recipe
Pumpkin protein shake in a clear glass, topped with whipped cream, with a glass straw.
5 stars (6 ratings)

5-Minute Pumpkin Spice Protein Shake

This easy, creamy, low-sugar pumpkin spice protein shake tastes just like pie and is packed with protein and good-for-you ingredients.
pumpkin puree, greek yogurt, almond butter, pumpkin pie spice, protein powder, frozen cauliflower rice, almond milk
go to recipe
two jars with overnight oats and fruit on top with white background
5 stars (5 ratings)

Protein Overnight Oats

You won’t believe how easy this no-cook, high protein overnight oats recipe is. Everything comes together in one jar, then simply shake and let it get thick, creamy & delicious overnight in the fridge.
Ingredients: rolled oats, Greek yogurt (traditional or plant-based), chia seeds, maple syrup, vanilla extract, almond milk, and vanilla protein powder.
go to recipe
Side shot of a green smoothie in a clear glass with clear straw.
5 stars (1 rating)

Green Protein Smoothie

Packed with protein, this easy green protein smoothie is packed with veggies and protein for a nourishing, filling way to start your day.
Ingredients: banana, spinach, vanilla protein powder, chia seeds, peanut butter, milk of choice.
go to recipe
5 stars (10 ratings)

One-Bowl Golden Glow Turmeric Flourless Muffins

One-Bowl Golden Glow Turmeric Flourless Muffins are packed with nourishing ingredients, like anti-inflammatory turmeric, and make a naturally sweet and healthy breakfast or snack anytime! Naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, grain-free and naturally sweetened.
Ingredients: almond flour (or oat flour), eggs, applesauce, pure maple syrup, vanilla extract, baking soda, baking powder, coconut oil, salt, turmeric, cinnamon, ground ginger, pepper, and dairy-free chocolate chips (optional).
go to recipe
berry protein smoothie in a clear glass with a straw on white background
5 stars (12 ratings)

Berry Protein Smoothie

This easy berry protein smoothie uses mixed frozen berries and multiple sources of protein for a filling, nourishing meal to carry you through the day. Includes simple ingredient swaps to make this nut-free!
Ingredients: frozen mixed berries, almond milk (or milk of choice), almond butter (or seed butter for nut-free), chia seeds, vanilla protein powder, and fresh lemon juice
go to recipe
Image of Sweet Potato Hashbrown Egg Nests
5 stars (3 ratings)

Sweet Potato Hashbrown Egg Nests

A fun and delicious make-ahead recipe, Sweet Potato Hashbrown Egg Nests are perfect for brunch, breakfast, or a quick snack.
Ingredients: russet potatoes, sweet potatoes, eggs, olive oil and salt
go to recipe
Image of Make-Ahead Kale and Sweet Potato Egg Cups
No ratings yet

Make-Ahead Kale and Sweet Potato Egg Cups

Your answer to a quick, easy, healthy breakfast, Make-Ahead Kale and Sweet Potato Egg Cups are packed with veggies and protein, all wrapped in one portable little package!
go to recipe

Easy Anti-Inflammatory Lunch Recipes

close up of a black bean salad with corn in white bowl
5 stars (5 ratings)

Black Bean Salad with Corn

This Black Bean Salad with Corn recipe combines cherry tomatoes, chopped bell peppers, red onion and cilantro with an easy, healthy cumin lime dressing. Perfect for a light vegetarian dinner, colorful side dish or make-ahead lunch!
go to recipe
Overhead shot of blue and white bowl on a white background filled with quinoa, chopped veggies, chickpeas, and basil.
5 stars (6 ratings)

Crunchy Curry Quinoa Salad

This Crunchy Curry Quinoa Salad makes a perfect lunch, dinner side, or vibrant addition to any brunch table.
Ingredients: quinoa, chickpeas, cucumber, green apple, red bell peppers, basil, sunflower seeds (or pumpkin seeds), garlic, extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lemon zest, lemon juice, mild curry powder and salt.
go to recipe
5 stars (2 ratings)

Autumn Meal Prep Lentil Salad

Autumn Meal Prep Lentil Salad is packed with nutrition and full of beautiful fall flavors. Perfect to prep-ahead and take for lunch, or enjoy as a side dish anytime. A gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, vegan recipe.
Ingredients: lentils, olive oil, butternut squash, greens, pepitas, and an easy maple Dijon vinaigrette.
go to recipe
Image of DIY Greek Quinoa Bowl
5 stars (1 rating)

DIY Greek Quinoa Bowl

Super simple to assemble and flavor-packed, DIY Greek Quinoa Bowls are perfect for dinner or lunch anytime. Topped with a creamy, tangy tahini dressing, these bowls are easy to prep and are so darn delicious!
Ingredients: quinoa, chickpeas, cucumber, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, tahini, garlic, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, honey, water and salt.
go to recipe
Overhead shot of chicken salad in meal prep containers.
5 stars (1 rating)

Meal Prep Golden Glow Chicken Salad

Meal Prep Golden Glow Chicken Salad is an easy, healthy make-ahead meal that you can prep ahead and take on the go. Make it with chicken, or any protein you like!
Ingredients: chicken, cucumber, green apple, bell peppers, green onion, sunflower seeds, extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey (optional), mild curry powder, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar and salt.
go to recipe
Image of Build-Your-Own Veggie Quinoa Power Bowls
4.67 stars (3 ratings)

Build-Your-Own Veggie Quinoa Power Bowls

Super fresh and so versatile, Build-Your-Own Veggie Quinoa Power Bowls are simple to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients: quinoa, arugula (or baby spinach), cherry tomatoes, hummus, zucchini, yellow squash, red bell peppers, red onion, scallions, extra virgin olive oil, honey, lemon juice and salt.
go to recipe
Close up of a chicken apple salad in a white square bowl, with a red apple in the background.
5 stars (4 ratings)

Chicken Apple Salad (Without Mayo or Dairy)

Bursting with crunchy veggies and an easy, flavorful dressing, this healthy chicken apple salad is made without mayo or dairy, and makes the perfect make-ahead salad or meal on the go. Simple to make and oh-so satisfying, you’ll want to make this one again and again!
Ingredients: cooked chicken breasts (or chicken thighs), apple, celery, cashews, white wine vinegar, olive oil, mustard, shallot, arugula or baby spinach (optional), honey (optional) and salt.
go to recipe
Image of Sweet Pea Power Salad
No ratings yet

Sweet Pea Power Salad

Sweet Pea Power Salad with Pea Pesto Dressing is full of fresh, bright flavors and is packed with plant-based protein. Topped with a simple pesto dressing, it’s perfect as a meal or as a colorful side.
go to recipe
Overhead shot of turmeric chicken salad with vegetables on a white background.
5 stars (11 ratings)

Turmeric Tahini Loaded Chicken Salad

Packed with nourishing ingredients, Turmeric Tahini Loaded Chicken Salad is perfect for lunch at home or to make ahead and take on-the-go!
Ingredients: cooked shredded chicken, shredded carrots, slaw mix (or shredded cabbage), green onion, sulfite-free raisins, turmeric, tahini, garlic, honey (optional), apple cider vinegar, extra virgin olive oil and salt.
go to recipe

Picky Eater Approved & Kid Friendly Anti-Inflammatory Recipes

white bowl of crockpot white chicken chili with jalapenos and tortilla chips on top
5 stars (95 ratings)

Easy Crockpot White Chicken Chili

Crockpot white chicken chili is an easy prep, dump and go recipe, made with healthy ingredients and deliciously creamy without any dairy. Also includes Instant Pot and Stovetop instructions!
Ingredients: chicken breast, stock, white beans, mild green chilis, salsa verde, onion, garlic powder, cumin, cream cheese (traditional or dairy-free).
go to recipe
Overhead shot of a white bowl filled with chicken vegetable soup with a spoon, on top of a striped blue napkin and white background.
5 stars (1 rating)

Easy Chicken Vegetable Soup

This easy chicken vegetable soup recipe is simple to make with easy to find ingredients, yet tastes like it’s from your favorite restaurant. Includes stovetop and slow cooker instructions, too!
Ingredients: chicken tenders, chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, Russet potatoes, garlic powder, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, green beans, corn, peas, bay leaf, olive oil and salt.
go to recipe
Top down view of a ground turkey sweet potato skillet in a blue and black pan with fresh herbs on a white background.
5 stars (4 ratings)

Easy Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

This healthy ground turkey sweet potato skillet is a fast, easy last minute dinner idea that’s so tasty you’ll want to put into your regular weeknight rotation. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, so keep this one in your backpocket for busy weeks!
Ingredients: ground turkey, sweet potatoes, olive oil, garlic powder, shredded cheese (traditional or dairy-free), baby spinach, chipotle honey vinaigrette and salt.
go to recipe
Greek Inspired Chicken Bowl in a white dish topped with yogurt tahini sauce with a blue napkin on a white background.
5 stars (2 ratings)

Easy Greek Bowls

Packed with vibrant, fresh ingredients, these easy Greek bowls make a quick weeknight dinner or the perfect meal prep meal to go. And you won’t believe how quick & delicious the yogurt tahini dressing is!
Ingredients: cooked chicken, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, feta cheese, cauliflower rice, and yogurt tahini dressing.
go to recipe
skillet chicken and sweet potatoes on a white background with fresh herbs on top and a striped blue napkin on the handle
5 stars (3 ratings)

Skillet Chicken and Sweet Potatoes

This easy chicken and sweet potatoes skillet can be made quickly on the stovetop and then baked in the oven. Plus it includes a delicious honey butter & chipotle pan sauce everyone will love!
Ingredients: chicken thighs (or chicken breasts), sweet potatoes, avocado oil, honey, butter (traditional or plant-based), chipotle peppers (from canned in adobo sauce), garlic and salt.
go to recipe
two white bowls of instant pot turmeric chicken soup with herbs and striped napkin
4.95 stars (17 ratings)

Nourishing Instant Pot Turmeric Chicken Soup

This homemade chicken soup can be made using an Instant Pot or slow cooker, depending on what you prefer! Either way, it comes out comforting, healthy, and so delicious. It is packed full of veggies and shredded chicken with a warming turmeric broth.
Ingredients: chicken breasts (or thighs), chicken stock, carrot, celery, onion, turmeric, olive oil and seasonings
go to recipe
close up of chicken skillet with fresh herbs on top
5 stars (19 ratings)

Easy Italian Chicken Zucchini Skillet

This Easy Italian Chicken Zucchini Skillet combines chicken, zucchini, tomatoes and classic Italian flavors for an easy, one-pot dinner you can make any night of the week. I love that it's naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, paleo, whole30 friendly and ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients: chicken breasts (or chicken thighs), zucchini, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken stock, butter (optional: traditional or dairy-free), fresh basil, red pepper flakes, garlic, Italian seasoning, olive oil and salt.
go to recipe
bowl of honey orange dijon chicken skewers with slaw
5 stars (4 ratings)

Honey Orange Dijon Chicken Skewers

These Honey Orange Dijon Chicken Skewers are delicious in bowls, fresh salads or served as wraps – perfect for meal prep or easy dinners on busy weeks. The easy marinade combines citrus, sage, honey and dijon mustard & doubles as a sauce to drizzle on the chicken when it's hot off the grill!
go to recipe

Vegetarian Anti-Inflammatory Meals

close up of crockpot vegetarian chili in a white bowl with toppings
5 stars (109 ratings)

Crockpot Vegetarian Chili

This easy crockpot vegetarian chili recipe tastes delicious and is easy to make with basic pantry ingredients, three beans, vegetables, and spices. Gluten free and vegan!
Ingredients: black beans, pinto beans, kidney beans, bell peppers, onion, fire roasted tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, lime juice, and other spices
go to recipe
top down view of white bowl of vegetable soup with striped blue napkin
5 stars (21 ratings)

Easy Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup (Dump and Go!)

This easy, hearty slow cooker vegetable soup is made with a mix of cut veggies that stand up well to a longer cook time, such as carrots, potatoes, and celery (no mush veggies here!) Best of all, you can make it without sautéing the vegetables first, which is a nice time-saver, too! 
Ingredients: potatoes, celery, carrot, onion, fire roasted tomatoes, tomato paste, peas, corn, green beans, stock, garlic powder, smoked paprika, bay leaves and salt.
go to recipe
Image of Slow Cooker Enchilada Quinoa (Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free)
5 stars (26 ratings)

Slow Cooker Enchilada Quinoa (Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free)

A simple drop, stir, cover, and go recipe; Slow Cooker Enchilada Quinoa (Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free) is so easy to prepare, tastes amazing, and packs well for lunch the next day.
Ingredients: quinoa, canned black beans, bell pepper, onion, cumin, garlic powder, mild chili powder, tomato sauce, diced fire-roasted tomatoes, green chilis, lime juice and salt
go to recipe
white bowl of soup with a spoon and striped blue napkin on white background
5 stars (12 ratings)

Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

This comforting and easy slow cooker split pea soup is super simple to prep in just 5 minutes, and is a wildly easy dump-and-go slow cooker recipe that's bound to become your new go-to recipe!
Ingredients: split peas, vegetable broth, water, onion, celery, carrot, garlic, bay leaves, smoked paprika, red wine vinegar and salt.
go to recipe
4.89 stars (17 ratings)

Slow Cooker Turmeric Lentil Chili

Made with pantry staples, Slow Cooker Turmeric Lentil Chili is incredibly simple to prepare and is packed with good-for-you ingredients. A vegetarian crockpot meal perfect for any night of the week!
Ingredients: kidney beans, lentils, stock, onion, tomato paste, coconut milk, cumin, turmeric and other spices
go to recipe
Image of Slow Cooker Sweet Potato, Apple, & Turmeric Soup
4.92 stars (23 ratings)

Slow Cooker Sweet Potato, Apple, & Turmeric Soup

Slow Cooker Sweet Potato, Apple & Turmeric Soup is a simple chop and drop recipe that yields creamy, nourishing results. It’s a hit with the entire family, plus is gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, paleo and Whole30 friendly!
Ingredients: sweet potato, apple, potatoes, stock, coconut milk, onion, garlic, apple cider vinegar, turmeric and other seasonings
go to recipe
Image of Slow Cooker Butternut Squash, Kale & Quinoa Stew
5 stars (20 ratings)

Slow Cooker Butternut Squash, Kale & Quinoa Stew

A simple and delicious plant-based meal, Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Stew is hearty, nourishing and packed with all the good stuff.
Ingredients: butternut squash, quinoa, kale, tomatoes, broth, onion, garlic, white wine vinegar, cumin, paprika, and other spices
go to recipe
white bowl of crockpot lentil soup with fresh herbs and crusty bread on the side
5 stars (32 ratings)

Easy Slow Cooker Lentil Soup

This easy slow cooker lentil soup is made with simple pantry ingredients like green lentils, celery, carrot and spinach making for a hearty vegan and vegetarian meal. Plus instant pot and stovetop directions!
Ingredients: Green (or brown) lentils, stock, onion, celery, carrot, diced tomatoes, garlic, red wine vinegar, spinach, salt and bay leaves.
go to recipe
white bowl filled with slow cooker vegetable curry with a striped blue napkin on the side
4.97 stars (26 ratings)

Slow Cooker Vegetable Curry

Slow Cooker Vegetable Curry combines sweet potato, chickpeas, cauliflower, spinach, coconut milk, and curry powder for a hearty vegetarian and vegan meal.
Ingredients: chickpeas, sweet potato, cauliflower, onion, vegetable broth, peas, spinach, coconut milk, curry powder, turmeric, ginger, garlic powder, tomato paste, lime juice, and salt
go to recipe
Overhead shot of turmeric chicken salad with vegetables on a white background.
5 stars (1 rating)

35+ Anti-Inflammatory Recipes featuring Turmeric Tahini Chicken Salad

Servings: 4
Prep: 10 minutes
Resting Time: 15 minutes
Total: 25 minutes
Packed with nourishing ingredients, this Turmeric Tahini Loaded Chicken Salad is perfect for lunch at home or to make ahead and take on-the-go! Plus 15+ more anti-inflammatory recipes that I know you'll love, including recipes for lunch, picky eaters, chicken and vegetarian dishes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe Rate this Recipe

Ingredients

For the Turmeric Tahini Dressing

  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 tablespoon tahini, (sesame seed paste)
  • 1 garlic clove, minced or finely grated
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil

For the Salad

  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken, such as from slow cooker whole chicken
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup slaw mix or finely shredded cabbage
  • 1-2 green onion, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup raisins, sulfite-free if possible

Equipment

Instructions 

  • In a medium bowl, add the turmeric, tahini, garlic, honey (if using), salt, pepper, and vinegar, stirring to combine. Drizzle in the olive oil and whisk until smooth. Alternatively, add all the ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.
  • In a large bowl, add the chicken, carrots, slaw or cabbage, green onions, and raisins. Add the dressing, stirring to combine. Allow to sit for 15 minutes for the flavors to combine.

Notes

For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for 1-2 cans of drained and rinsed cans of chickpeas. Lightly smash half the chickpeas, then proceed with the recipe.
Author: Robyn Conley Downs
Course: Lunch, Main Course

Nutrition Information:

Serving: 1 (of 4), Calories: 353kcal, Carbohydrates: 14g, Protein: 19g, Fat: 11g, Saturated Fat: 2g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g, Monounsaturated Fat: 6g, Cholesterol: 53mg, Sodium: 129mg, Potassium: 415mg, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 4g, Vitamin A: 5424IU, Vitamin C: 10mg, Calcium: 39mg, Iron: 2mg
Nutrition disclaimer
Did you make this recipe?If you do, be sure to share it on Instagram and tag me at @realfoodwholelife so I can see!

Share this Post