By Becca Newell
It’s not always easy to eat well and some days, when it comes to dinnertime, we find ourselves itching for those less-than-healthy meals (and desserts!). If you’re like us, don’t fret—we have some week-night suggestions to quell any cravings. And while these healthier options might cut calories, they don’t skimp on taste!
Pasta
Reduce calories and carbs—while increasing your daily intake of vitamins and minerals—by rethinking fettuccine and spaghetti dishes with these vegetable-derived alternatives. From zucchini, “zoodles” and summer squash to carrots and turnips, there are a host of veggies just waiting to be sliced and served. And if you’re ahead of the game and over zoodles already, try the newest craze: spiralized beets.
Spaghetti vs. Zoodles (one cup)
Calories: 230kcal – 27kcal
Carbohydrates: 43g - 5g
Potassium: 59mg - 475mg
Vitamin C: 0mg - 23.2mg
Pizza
Our love of pizza is as steadfast as anyone’s, but we’re not so in love with its effect on our waistline. So, we’ve tossed aside the regular crust in place of a crispy, flavorful base made from grated cauliflower. Fewer carbs, more protein, and each slice is just as delicious as its doughy counterpart—what’s not to love?
Regular Pizza Crust vs. Cauliflower Pizza Crust (100g)
Calories: 250kcal - 141kcal
Carbohydrates: 46g - 7g
Protein: 0g - 13g
Calcium: 36g - 211g
Another option for cauliflower? Rice it! Replace grains, like rice and couscous, by grating cauliflower into small granules and steaming or sautéing it. While this switch boasts a lower calorie and carb count—and a vitamin K and C boost—there is less fiber and protein in comparison to rice.
Burgers
Veggie burgers get a bad rap—who wants to give up a juicy ground beef patty for a cardboard hockey puck? Well, now you don’t have to. Beyond Meat recently developed a plant-based burger that looks, cooks, and, surprisingly, tastes like beef—with zero cholesterol. Merely thaw each frozen patty and throw on the grill. It’s as easy as it is appetizing!
Beef Burger vs. Beyond Meat Burger (1/4 pound patty)
Saturated Fat: 9g - 5g
Cholesterol: 80mg - 0mg
Protein: 19g - 20g
Iron: 1.79mg – 4.5mg
Brownies
Fruit is the obvious replacement for any after-dinner treat, but if you just can’t go to bed without something a little more indulgent, we’ve found a pretty good compromise: Avocado Brownies. Simply switch out butter for pureed avocado (1:1 ratio). And, you can also trade oil for applesauce (1:3/4 ratio) for an even lighter, healthier dessert.
Regular Brownies vs. Avocado Brownies
Calories: 170kcal – 170kcal
Carbohydrates: 24g – 17g
Sodium: 105mg - 20mg
Protein: 2g - 2g
Simple Snack Swaps
Switch out your favorites in the left column with these healthier alternatives
