I prefer light dishes.
leh-JJEH-ree — the 'gg' before 'e' is a soft 'j' sound (like in 'measure'). Three syllables.
Use when following a low-fat or low-calorie diet, or simply when not very hungry. It opens a conversation about lighter menu options without citing a specific restriction.
'Preferisco' (I prefer) is first person singular of 'preferire' (to prefer) — an -ire verb conjugated like 'finire' (with -isc- infix). 'Leggeri' is the masculine plural of 'leggero' (light/light in calories).
Avete qualcosa di leggero?
Do you have something light?
Open question inviting suggestions.
Preferisco qualcosa di non troppo pesante.
I prefer something not too heavy.
Common casual phrasing.
Sto seguendo una dieta.
I'm following a diet.
States diet without specifics — prompts the waiter to help.
Traditional Italian cuisine distinguishes between 'cucina leggera' (light cooking) and 'cucina ricca' (rich cooking). Grilled fish, steamed vegetables, and simple salads ('insalata') are classic light Italian choices.