Comfort Food Fix Feel Good Favorites Made Healthy
Comfort Foods: Healthy Alternatives to Feel-Good Favorites
When it comes to comfort food, many of us have our go-to favorites. Whether it’s mac and cheese, deep dish pizza, or a big bowl of ice cream, the thought of comfort food can make us feel warm and cozy inside. But those favorites usually come with a high calorie and fat content.
The good news is that you can still have your favorite comfort foods without feeling guilty. With a few simple swaps, you can make healthier versions of your favorite comfort dishes that are just as tasty and satisfying as the original.
Mac and Cheese
This classic comfort dish is a favorite for many. To make it healthier, swap the full-fat cheese for reduced-fat cheese. You can also add in some vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers. The vegetables will add more nutrition and bulk to the dish.
To cut some of the calories, you can use whole wheat macaroni instead of regular macaroni. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of cream. The Greek yogurt will add some extra protein and calcium to the dish.
Deep Dish Pizza
Deep dish pizza is usually loaded with cheese and pepperoni. To make a healthier version, start by using a whole wheat crust. You can also use reduced-fat cheese and add some vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions.
For the sauce, you can use a low-sodium marinara sauce. And instead of pepperoni, you can use turkey sausage or lean ground beef. These swaps will cut down on the calories and fat content, while still giving you a tasty pizza.
Ice Cream
Ice cream is a classic comfort food. To make a healthier version, try using frozen yogurt or banana “nice cream”. To make banana “nice cream”, simply blend together frozen bananas and a little bit of almond milk. You can also add in some cocoa powder or peanut butter for extra flavor.
You can also try using Greek yogurt instead of ice cream. Greek yogurt is lower in calories and fat and is high in protein. It also has a nice creamy texture that is similar to ice cream. You can also add in your favorite fruits or frozen berries for some added sweetness.
Healthier Comfort Food is Possible
It is possible to still enjoy your favorite comfort foods without feeling guilty. With some simple swaps, you can make healthier versions of your favorite comfort dishes that are just as tasty and satisfying as the original. So the next time you’re craving your favorite comfort food, try making a healthier version to satisfy your cravings without all the calories and fat.
