Turning Winter Comfort Foods into Healthier Choices

By Brandi Swieter

The cold winter months have many people consuming warm comfort foods that soothe their souls. The majority of these food options are high in fat and calories, making them less than ideal to eat regularly throughout the season. With some substitutions, anyone can turn their winter comfort foods into much healthier choices that are worth eating.

Use Olive Oil for Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are enjoyed by many people, and work well as a side dish for meals. Add some gravy and some people are in heaven when the potatoes touch their lips. All the butter and milk used in this dish is what makes it so unhealthy. Start by substituting the butter for olive oil instead for a healthier choice. It is also best to either leave out the milk, or at least use a fat-free version to eliminate some of the fat and calories. Non-fat sour cream is an option as well. With some seasoning added, the potatoes will still taste great.

Use Pureed Veggies Instead of Cheese in Mac and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese has long been a staple of many households. From Kraft boxes of the food that kids enjoy to baked dishes served at restaurants, mac and cheese is a great comfort food that many people love. The cheese is where a lot of the fat content comes from, so replacing it would make the dish healthier. Pureed veggies, such as carrots or butternut squash, can be substituted. Whole wheat pasta should even be used in place of regular versions. Those who still want their cheese taste can skip the purees and try grated parmesan mixed with garlic and yogurt instead. There’s plenty of healthy ways to make this dish.

Use Whole Wheat Bread for Grilled Cheese

Grilled cheese and tomato soup is a classic winter dish that many people enjoy when it’s cold outside. To make it a bit healthier, a simple bread substitution will suffice. Use whole wheat bread choices instead of white bread for a heart-healthy selection. It’s also important to use real cheese rather than the store-bought fake cheese slices.

Enjoy comfort foods all winter long by turning them into healthier choices. Rather than going to a restaurant or purchasing ready-made options from the store, start from scratch at home to ensure truly healthy meals and side dishes. Your health is worth it.

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