Comfort foods, like macaroni and cheese, fried chicken and meatloaf feed more than just the body, they feed the soul, but unfortunately, most of our favorite comfort dishes are super fattening, loaded with calories and not so good for our health. Let’s be honest: No one wants to completely cut out their favorite foods, but the good news is that there are small changes you can make without sacrificing the flavor. Read on to find out how you can make some of your favorite meals healthier in no time! healthy food
1. Swap: Hamburger & Fries
Instead of a traditional hamburger and fries, why not try a turkey burger and sweet potatoes? Not only is turkey lower in calories than red meat, but it also helps reduce your risk of heart disease.
Sweet potatoes, on the other hand, are less starchy and high in vitamins A and C, but the key is to bake NOT fry them. Drizzle a little sea salt, extra virgin olive oil and parsley and you’re good to go!
2. Swap: Ricotta Cheese
Got a recipe that calls for ricotta cheese? Your best bet would be to replace it with low-fat cottage cheese, but if you insist on using ricotta cheese, choose the low-fat option.
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3. Swap: Ground Beef
Lasagna, spaghetti, meatloaf, chili – the ground beef in all these family-favorite dishes can easily be replaced with ground turkey.
Also for the lasagna and spaghetti, use whole-wheat pasta.
4. Swap: Sour Cream
A lot of dips (or at least my favorite ones) always seem to require sour cream.
Try substituting it with low-fat plain yogurt. You’ll get that same kick of flavor without all the extra fat and calories.
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5. Swap: Fried Chicken
Everybody and their momma loves a good piece of fried chicken, but it’s much healthier sans the skin.
Better yet, bake it instead. And contrary to popular belief, baked chicken does not have to be boring and bland.
Don’t believe me? Check out these delicious baked chicken recipes.
6. Swap: Potatoes
Instead of steak and potatoes, how about steak and cauliflower?
I know it sounds crazy, but you can make all sorts of great dishes using cauliflower. From macaroni and cheese to mashed potatoes to pizza, don’t underestimate the versatility of cauliflower!
7. Swap: Butter or Jelly
The next time you reach for the butter or jelly/jam to spread on your toast in the morning, consider trying avocado instead. The creaminess and richness will forever change the way you think about toast. Did we mention that avocado helps lower your cholesterol?
