This four-ingredient recipe is a great refreshing treat that can replace sugary Italian ice or ice cream, or can be served alongside savory dishes to create the perfect cooling finish. A great pick-me-up or a palate cleanser between courses, it’s also low in fat and big on flavor, which is a satisfying combination for dieters! Read more »
When you think protein, you usually think turkey, chicken, steak, eggs, and so on. But, there are alternative sources of protein, including the milk-based whey protein, found in powder form. Start of your day without worrying about the fat that comes with animal sources of protein. Protein powders come in a variety of flavors, but I like vanilla. Pump yourself up with whey protein, which is a key ingredient in the following recipes: Super Protein Muffins, Pancakes and Oatmeal! Read more »
These salmon cakes are loaded with healthy omega-3’s from the salmon and the flax seeds. Parsley and lemon make this a fresh and lean dish – perfect for the warm weather! The Greek Yogurt Tartar Sauce is refreshing and not only great served with salmon cakes but also delicious with fish sticks or crab cakes. By only using half a cup mayonnaise and swapping in Greek yogurt, you can cut calories and erase the guilt of eating this creamy dipping sauce! Read more »
Microwave popcorn is quick and delicious, but is also loaded with butter, salt and trans fats. A healthy alternative can be this cauliflower popcorn: It has that satisfying crunch and salty taste without ruining your diet! Try this as a different kind of treat while watching a movie at home. If you are in an exotic mood, substitute the parmesan with 1 tablespoon of curry powder. You can also toss with a little oil and vinegar (perhaps finely diced onions as well) for a yummy side salad. Read more »
This refreshing coleslaw is an easy side dish that can replace sides high in calories and carbs, such as pasta salad. In addition to containing antioxidants, studies have identified mangoes as cancer-fighters. So eat up! For this recipe, you can use ripe or unripe mangoes. Ripe mangoes are a little trickier to cut but give the slaw a lovely, sweet and floral note. Unripe mangoes are easier to slice and offer a tarter, more refreshing flavor. Read more »
Kale is high in vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C, manganese and fiber, which makes it a great side to include with any meal. This recipe is loaded with flavor and is delicious in combination with lean proteins and whole grains such as brown rice or quinoa. I like to include the kale stems in this dish, for their nice added crunch. If you prefer a more refined dish, remove the stems before chopping the kale. Read more »
Peaches have 19% of your vitamin C for the day, 11% of your vitamin A, and 10% of your potassium. If I end up with some peaches that are not really fully ripe, I like to throw them on the grill, letting the flame do the necessary “ripening.” This is great as an appetizer or served alongside lean grilled meats and a salad. By simply grilling them up with a little bit of oil, tangy blue cheese and sweet tomatoes, you can have a tasty, easy and, most importantly, healthy side dish! Read more »
Chimichurri can be a great substitute for pre-made gravies or heavy cheese and cream sauces. The best part? This sauce is full of flavor but low in fat or calories, and tastes good on anything from meat to vegetables. The original South American version of chimichurri calls for parsley, which you can use in place of the cilantro I use for this version (or you can use a combination of both). Chopping the ingredients before adding to the blender or food processor helps create more even blending. Enjoy! Read more »
Grilled cheese is the ultimate comfort food – bread, cheese, butter and, unfortunately, lots of fat and calories. This lighter version allows you to customize the sandwich and make it your own, with healthier substitutions like apples and olive oil. Read more »
With healthy, optional toppings such as avocado and cilantro, you can add delicious Tex-Mex flavor to this creamy soup without any guilt! Read more »
