Diet to Go

Diet to Go

Make Comfort Foods Healthier:
10 EZ Tips

Courtesy of Diet-to-Go

Casseroles, stews and chilis are low in cost and make multiple servings – and what’s more convenient than a one-dish meal!

However, when you think about these recipes now, you might notice that they are often high in calories and fat. But don’t let that stop you from starting your own tradition – healthier, new versions of old, familiar comfort foods!

Read on for tips on modifying casserole-type dishes.

10 easy ways to modify comfort foods

A few simple modifications can shave quite a few calories and fat off of a recipe without sacrificing the flavor.

  1. Use lower-fat, lower-sodium cream soups such Healthy Request by Campbell’s. And, mix with non-fat milk, if called for.

  2. Use evaporated skim milk in place of cream and try healthier versions of mayonnaise and sour cream.

  3. Swap white pasta and white rice for brown rice and whole wheat pasta.

  4. Reduce the amount of cheese called for in the recipe by half.

  5. Use leaner versions of meat, such as extra lean ground beef or turkey. Or, substitute chicken or turkey breast in place of beef.

  6. Go veggie! Try a healthy vegetarian stew or all bean crockpot chili – veggies and beans are very filling!

  7. Use lower sodium tomato sauces and broths.

  8. When making enchiladas, skip dipping the tortillas in oil. Instead, cover the tortillas with a wet paper towel and microwave for a few seconds until softened.

  9. Reduce the meat and add veggies! Try carrots, bell peppers and corn in chili, or squash and mushrooms in enchiladas.

  10. Keep portions under control by filling at least half your plate with salad.

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