
Something Light and Tasty for Dinner
Starchy fruits and vegetables can be a great source of energy, but when it comes to dinner, sometimes you want to keep things light and easy to digest. While they’re packed with nutrients, these foods are higher in carbohydrates and can leave you feeling sluggish instead of satisfied. If you’re aiming for a lighter meal, here are 13 starchy fruits and vegetables you might want to skip for dinner.
1. Potatoes

Let’s start with the obvious one—potatoes! Whether they’re mashed, fried, or roasted, potatoes are delicious but very starchy. While they provide fiber and vitamin C, they can be heavy on carbs, which might not be ideal for a light dinner, especially if you’re watching your carbohydrate intake.
2. Corn

Corn is often mistaken for a vegetable, but it’s actually a grain—and a very starchy one at that. While sweet corn is packed with flavor and nutrients like lutein (great for eye health), it can spike blood sugar and leave you feeling bloated if eaten in large amounts at night.
3. Bananas

Bananas are a fantastic energy booster, making them a great breakfast or pre-workout snack. However, they contain a lot of natural sugars and starch, which can slow down digestion before bedtime. If you need a fruit in the evening, opt for something lighter, like berries or apples.
4. Plantains

Plantains are like bananas but even starchier. While they’re a staple in many cuisines and packed with potassium, they’re best enjoyed earlier in the day rather than as part of a light dinner. Their high carbohydrate content can make them harder to digest, especially if they’re fried.
5. Peas

Peas might be small, but they’re surprisingly starchy! They contain fiber and protein, but they’re higher in carbs than many other green vegetables. If you want a low-starch alternative, try leafy greens like spinach or kale instead.
6. Butternut Squash

This creamy, slightly sweet vegetable is a fall favorite, but it’s also packed with starch. While butternut squash is full of vitamin A and fiber, it can be heavier than you’d expect. If you’re looking for a lighter option, zucchini or cauliflower are great substitutes.
7. Carrots

Carrots are one of the sweeter vegetables, and while they are great for snacking, they contain more natural sugars and starch than most other root vegetables. Eating them in moderation is fine, but if you’re looking for a lower-carb dinner, consider replacing them with bell peppers or cucumbers.
8. Yams

Yams and sweet potatoes are often confused, but both are starchy and high in natural sugars. While they are nutrient-rich, they’re best suited for lunch or breakfast when your body needs more energy. Try replacing them with roasted cauliflower or asparagus for a lighter dinner.
9. Pumpkins

Pumpkin might seem light because it’s mostly water, but it’s actually quite starchy! It’s packed with fiber and vitamins, but if you’re watching your carb intake in the evening, it’s best to skip it in favor of lower-starch vegetables.
10. Cassava (Yuca)

Cassava, also known as yuca, is one of the starchiest vegetables out there. It’s a great source of energy and often used in gluten-free baking, but it’s very heavy on carbs. If you want a lighter alternative, consider swapping it for roasted mushrooms or leafy greens.
11. Chestnuts

While chestnuts may not be something you eat every day, they’re one of the starchiest nuts around. Unlike other nuts, they are low in fat but high in carbohydrates, making them more similar to starchy vegetables than almonds or walnuts.
12. Beets

Beets are packed with antioxidants and great for heart health, but they also contain more starch than most root vegetables. They can be a great addition to salads, but if you’re looking for a lower-carb dinner, swap them out for tomatoes or radishes.
13. Taro Root

Taro root is a staple in many Asian and Pacific cuisines, but it’s loaded with starch. While it provides fiber and vitamins, it’s best to enjoy it earlier in the day when you need more energy, rather than at dinner when you’re winding down.
Final Thoughts
While all of these starchy fruits and vegetables have their place in a healthy diet, they might not be the best choice for a light dinner. If you’re aiming for a meal that won’t weigh you down, opt for non-starchy veggies like leafy greens, bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms instead. Keeping your dinners light and balanced can help with digestion, energy levels, and even better sleep.