Some of the recipes from 30 Days of Juicing sound terrible but others… others sound delicious.

Some of the recipes from 30 Days of Juicing sound terrible but others… others sound delicious.

(Source: noraleah)


Friday, January 27th, 2012 @ 3:00 PM ♥33 notes | Permalink
Going Raw

picked up a copy of the raw food detox diet by natalia rose & loved it - so i’m trying it.

according to the test in the book i’m a level 3, which means i essentially need to eat raw until dinner & be mindful of the things that usually trip me up; sugars, white flours, etc. her approach seems really mindful of the fact that not only do i eat flesh, but i’m not going to become 100% raw, or vegan, overnight. (honestly i don’t have any interest in being vegan or vegetarian, but we’ll see what happens. i can’t eat any meat or eggs until the end of the day anyway, so that helps.

also, a lot of her stuff focuses on food combining. we’ll see how this goes.

yesterday 01/22/2012:

  • late breakfast (4pm): whole bunch of green grapes
  • dinner: baked tilapia, homemade plain veggie soup, 1 beer + 1/2 delirium nocturnum
  • dessert: 1/4 dark chocolate bar

today 01/23/2012:

  • breakfast (9:30am) - 1 apple, small bunch of seedless red grapes & mixed berries
  • lunch (1pm) - raw chopped salad [green beans, corn, carrots, pee shoots, spinach, cherry tomatoes, cucumber] with raw carrot-ginger dressing
  • snack: should have eaten this with lunch but i was too full (2:30pm) - 4oz mixed dried fruit (apricots, figs & mango) with raw nuts (almonds, walnuts)
  • afternoon snack (5pm) - 2 romaine leaves, each with 1/2T raw honey & 1/2T raw almond butter
  • dinner (8:30pm) - small raw salad with ginger dressing, sashimi (raw fish, no rice or whatever) with raw veggie noodles along with soy sauce (meh, kinda bad but whatever) + wasabi
  • dessert: 4 dates with 4 pecans + 1/4 of a 70% Black & Green dark chocolate bar + roobling chai w/ stevia and almond milk

my juicer arrives sometime this week & then i can really get serious about this. but i figure ramping up a week beforehand isn’t such a bad idea.


Tuesday, January 24th, 2012 @ 4:17 AM ♥3 notes | Permalink
unsure of the accuracy of this but… interesting.

unsure of the accuracy of this but… interesting.

(Source: muffintop-less)


Thursday, January 19th, 2012 @ 2:38 PM ♥955 notes | Permalink
Magic Veggie Soup

Ingredients:

  • 1 yellow/white onion, roughly chopped
  • 1 red onion, roughly chopped
  • 3-4 gloves garlic, diced
  • package of celery, chopped
  • bell pepper, chopped (I prefer red or yellow, but pick your poison)
  • mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 zucchini or yellow squash, chopped 
  • adult spinach leaves, de-stemmed
  • no-salt tomato juice
  • no-salt added veggie stock
  • small can or 2 of no-salt tomato paste
  • olive oil
  • seasoning (options include: flat leaf parsley, something funny and leafy I cannot name but buy all the time, black pepper, cayenne pepper, basil, oregano, 1 bay leaf)

This is a fly by the seat of your pants recipe, but I’m gonna try to make it easy. Or you could go read the ‘real’ recipe which has photos and junk.

  1. In a large pot, heat 2T olive oil on medium-high heat. 
  2. When oil is warm, add chunky-diced red & white/yellow onion and chopped garlic. 
  3. Once onions become translucent, add your chopped veggies. As they release some of their water they will take up less space, so don’t stress.
  4. Add in veggie stock, tomato juice and tomato paste. I also added half a can of dice tomatos (no salt added, obviously) because that’s how I roll.
  5. Let simmer for a while - bring the heat down a bit. Add water as needed (1-2 cups, probably) so that you maintain a soup consistency.
  6. Stir in your herbs! Cover, reduce to medium-low heat and let simmer.

(Original recipe with photos via XOJane)


Friday, January 13th, 2012 @ 9:30 AM ♥51 notes | Permalink
If you’re gonna eat sushi, do it right:

Go rice-less with sashimi. By cutting out the rice, you lower the calories while still getting the benefits of protein and Omega 3’s found in fish.
If you do order a roll.. ask for brown rice instead of white. (White rice is a simple carb that spikes insulin, which in turn promotes fat storage.. brown rice is a complex carb that will give you energy over an extended period of time).
Go sauce-less. Skip the sodium/sugar-laden sauces - they are clearly high in calories. Savor the flavors of the ingredients in the roll instead of drowning it in soy, teriyaki or spicy sauce.
Eat the edamame! Edamame is high in protein, fiber, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Rolls with avocado might be higher in calories, but the healthy fats found in them are worth it! Splurge a little on this!
(Adapted from original post via muffintop-less)

If you’re gonna eat sushi, do it right:

  • Go rice-less with sashimi. By cutting out the rice, you lower the calories while still getting the benefits of protein and Omega 3’s found in fish.
  • If you do order a roll.. ask for brown rice instead of white. (White rice is a simple carb that spikes insulin, which in turn promotes fat storage.. brown rice is a complex carb that will give you energy over an extended period of time).
  • Go sauce-less. Skip the sodium/sugar-laden sauces - they are clearly high in calories. Savor the flavors of the ingredients in the roll instead of drowning it in soy, teriyaki or spicy sauce.
  • Eat the edamame! Edamame is high in protein, fiber, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Rolls with avocado might be higher in calories, but the healthy fats found in them are worth it! Splurge a little on this!

(Adapted from original post via muffintop-less)


Wednesday, January 11th, 2012 @ 7:47 AM ♥200 notes | Permalink
planning to actively consume more of the following:
parsley
cucumber
watermelon
celery
peppermint tea

planning to actively consume more of the following:

  • parsley
  • cucumber
  • watermelon
  • celery
  • peppermint tea

(via muffintop-less)


Wednesday, January 11th, 2012 @ 12:50 AM ♥867 notes | Permalink

(Source: matchstickmolly.com, via matchstickmolly)


Tuesday, January 10th, 2012 @ 3:59 PM ♥1,006 notes | Permalink
75 Healthy Recipe Substitutions

From this article from The Greatist!

In Baking

1. Black beans for flour

Substituting a can of black beans (drained and rinsed) for flour in brownies is a great way to cut gluten while getting in an extra dose of protein— and they taste great.

2. Whole wheat flour for white flour

In virtually any baked good, replacing white flour with whole wheat can add a whole new dimension of nutrients, flavor, and texture. Because whole wheat includes the outer shell of the grain, it provides an extra punch of fiber, which aids in digestion and can even lower the risk of diabetes and heart disease.

3. Unsweetened applesauce for sugar

Using applesauce in place of sugar can give the necessary sweetness without the extra calories and, well, sugar. While 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce contains only about 100 calories, a cup of sugar can pack more than 770. Perfect for oatmeal raisin cookies.

4. Unsweetened applesauce for oil or butter

Don’t knock this one till you’ve tried it. The applesauce gives the right consistency and a hint of sweetness without all the fat of oil or butter. This works well in any sweet bread, like banana or zucchini, or in muffins (like in these low-fat blueberry muffins), including pre-boxed mixes.

5. Almond flour for wheat flour

This gluten-free switch gives any baked good a dose of protein, omega-3s, and a delicious nutty flavor. Check out these classic butter cookies for a simple example.

6. Avocado puree for butter

They’re both fats (albeit very different fats) and have nearly the same consistency at room temperature. The creaminess and subtle flavor of the avocado lends itself well to the texture of fudge brownies and dark chocolate flavorings. Check out this recipe for an idea of the right proportions to use.

7. Brown rice cereal and flax meal for Rice Crispies

Brown puffed rice has the same texture as conventional white rice, but with half the calories. The flaxadds extra fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and phytochemicals to the mix without changing the flavor.

8. Marshmallow Fluff for butter and sugar (in frosting)

Replacing the fat and sugar in frosting with marshmallow gets the desired consistency with fewer calories. While 2 tablespoons of Fluff has just 40 calories and 6 grams of sugar (and no fat!), the same amount of conventional frosting can pack up to 100 calories, 5 grams of fat, and 14 grams of sugar.

9. Natural peanut butter for reduced fat peanut butter

While it may appear better than traditional Skippy or Jiff, reduced fat peanut butter can actually have more sugar (and a doubly long list of artificial additives) than the original. Natural peanut butter (preferably unsalted) provides the same sweetness without chemical additives.

10. Vanilla for sugar

Cutting sugar in half and adding 1-2 teaspoons of vanilla as a replacement can give just as much flavor with significantly fewer calories. Assuming the recipe originally calls for 1 cup of sugar, that’s already almost 400 calories cut by leaving out ½ cup of sugar.

11. Mashed ripe bananas for fats

The creamy, thickening-power of mashed banana acts the same as avocado in terms of replacing fat in baking recipes. The consistency is ideal, and the bananas add nutrients like potassium, fiber, and vitamin B6.

12. Nut flours for flour

A word of caution: Nut flours don’t rise the same way as wheat flour so an additional rising agent might be needed when replacing more than ¼ cup of wheat. Many gluten-free blogs detail how to streamline nut-based baking. And while these flours are typically higher in calories and fat, they also have more fiber and protein.

13. Coconut flour for flour

High in fiber and low in carbohydrates, coconut flour is a great partial substitute for wheat flour in baking recipes.  Be careful, though— more than 1/4-1/2 cup, and the flour’s bitterness can take over.

14. Meringue for frosting

Made from just egg whites and sugar, meringue can be a great fat-free substitution for traditional frosting. Feel like going a step further? Take a torch to it. Lightly charring the edges of the meringue can add a nice caramelized flavor.

15. Graham crackers for cookies (in pie crusts)

Who doesn’t love a fresh baked cookie-crust pie? But next time, refrain from the traditional sugar or Oreo cookie crust and grab the graham crackers. Reduced-fat graham cracker pack about half the calories of the more conventional options.

16. Evaporated skim milk for cream

It’s the same consistency with a fraction of the fat. Evaporated milk tends to have a bit more sugar (only about 2 grams), but the major drop in fat content is well worth the switch.

17. Stevia for sugar

Natural sweetener stevia is lower in calories and up to 300 times sweeter than sugar. But watch the grocery bill, as this fashionable sweetener can also cost up to 5 times as much as granulated sugar.

18. Baby prunes for butter

In brownies and other dark baked goods, minced baby prunes make for a perfect butter substitute while cutting more than half the calories and fat.

19. Cacao Nibs for chocolate chips 

Those chips? Yeah, they start out as cacao nibs— the roasted bits of cocoa beans that then get ground down and turned in to chocolate. These unprocessed (or at least less processed) treats cut down on the additives and added sugar in chocolate, while also delving out a healthy dose of antioxidants.

On the Stovetop

20. Brown rice for white rice

When white rice is processed, the “brown” bran layer gets stripped away, cutting out essential nutrients (like fiber). Opt for brown rice for a fuller nutritional profile.

21. Quinoa for couscous

While couscous is made from processed wheat flour, quinoa is a whole-grain superfood packed with protein and nutrients— and they have almost the exact same texture.

22. Zucchini ribbons for pasta

Thin strips or ribbons of zucchini are a great stand in for carb-packed pastas. Plus, it’s one excuse to skip the boiling— simply sautee for a few minutes until soft.

23. Olive oil for butter

When cooking eggs, this simple switch is a great way to cut down on saturated fats while getting a healthy dose of essential omega 3 fatty acids.

24. Turnip mash for mashed potatoes

While 1 cup of mashed potatoes made with whole milk racks up about 180 calories (before the inevitable salt and butter), a cup of mashed turnip (which doesn’t need milk or butter to get that creamy consistency) has only 51 calories. Add some fresh herbs in place of the salt and it’s a much healthier version of the classic mash.

25. Grated steamed cauliflower for rice

Cut both calories and carbs with this simple switch. The texture is virtually the same, as is the taste.

26. Mashed cauliflower for mashed potatoes

Just like the turnip mash, mashed cauliflower has only a fraction of the calories of potatoes and it’s nearly impossible to taste the difference.

27. Rolled oats for breadcrumbs

While breadcrumbs can pack extra sodium, using rolled oats seasoned with herbs is a great way to sneak another whole grain into any meal.

28. Dry beans for canned beans

Canned beans are convenient, sure. But they also tend to have excess sodium and plenty of preservatives. Plus, even though the canned versions are dirt cheap, the dried are even cheaper! It may take a little more work (some simple soaking and boiling), but this switch is still worth it.

29. Prosciutto or pancetta for bacon

Bacon is often the go-to for that smoky flavor in savory dishes (and in some sweet ones). But opting for a few slices of prosciutto or pancetta can help cut both calories and fat. While bacon has about 70 calories and 6 grams of fat per 2 slices, prosciutto (where 1 slice equals about 2 slices of bacon, size wise) has just 30 calories and 4 grams of fat per slice.

30. 2 egg whites for 1 whole egg

One egg yolk holds more than half the recommended daily cholesterol for the average adult. Trading out the yolk for a second white will cut out the cholesterol while doubling the protein. If making a dish that requires more eggs, keeps 1-2 yolks for their rich vitamins A, E, D, and K content, but consider swapping the rest out.

31. Whole wheat pasta for regular pasta

Just as with bread, whole wheat pasta beats regular with a higher fiber content and about 50 fewer calories per serving (depending on the brand).

32. Crushed flax or fiber cereal for bread crumbs

Crushing a fiber-rich cereal and mixing it with some herbs makes a lower-sodium substitution for traditional breadcrumbs.

33. White meat skinless poultry for dark meat poultry

The biggest chicken debate to date: white meat vs. dark meat? The white meat has it beat— lower in calories and fat, higher in protein and iron.

34. Olive oil spray for olive oil from the bottle

Oil glugs out of the bottle, leading to overly-greasy dishes. Using a spray bottle is a great way to cut down on oil while still getting the non-stick benefits. A little mist is all that’s needed!

35. Egg Beaters for egg yolks

A solid substitution for many egg dishes (like omelets or frittatas), this switch is especially rewarding in Hollandaise sauce. To get the richness of the yolk without all the added cholesterol, use an equal amount of Egg Beaters instead when blending up this classic sauce.

36. Bison for beef

Higher in B vitamins and lower in fat bison is a great substitute for the ol’ beefy standard (when available, of course).

37. Ground Turkey for ground beef

Ground turkey (or chicken) is a great substitute for ground beef to cut down on saturated fat and calories. A reminder: because of the lower fat content, ground poultry often ends up drier than beef, but a few tablespoons of chicken stock can solve the problem.

38. Quinoa and ground turkey for rice and ground beef (in stuffed peppers)

More protein and antioxidants in the quinoa and less fat in the ground turkey make this an all-around healthier option for this popular side dish.

39. Coconut milk for cream

Coconut milk is a great substitute for heavy cream in soups and stews. And don’t be turned off by the word “coconut”— it doesn’t taste like the sweetened shredded kind!

40. Spaghetti squash for pasta

Roasted and pulled apart with a fork, spaghetti squash is a great low-carb and lower-calorie substitute for pasta.

In Sandwiches & Meals

41. Greek yogurt for sour cream

Half the fat and calories, yet the taste and texture are virtually identical. Plus, nonfat Greek yogurtoffers an extra dose of lean protein.

42. Arugula, romaine, spinach, and/or kale for iceberg lettuce

All greens are not created equal. Darker greens usually mean more nutrients like iron, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Sorry, iceberg’s just not cutting it anymore— go out and get some grown-up greens.

43. Pita for bread

One 4-inch whole-wheat pita runs around 80 calories and only 1 gram of fat (though there is some variation from brand to brand). Compare that to around 138 calories in 2 slices of whole-wheat bread.

44. Greek yogurt for mayo (in tuna/chicken salad)

Add some herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice, and they’ll taste almost identical. Plus, this swap can save 60 calories and 8 grams of fat per ounce.

45. Plain Yogurt with Fresh Fruit for flavored yogurt

Pre-flavored yogurts often come packed with extra sugar. To skip the sugar rush without sacrificing flavor, opt for plain yogurt (or better yet, plain Greek yogurt) and add fresh fruit and/or honey/agave for a hint of sweetness.

46. Nutritional yeast for cheese

The taste and texture are a little bit different, but the creamy gooiness is pretty comparable. Instead of topping that taco with cheddar, try a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavoring with less fat.

47. Lettuce leaves for tortilla wraps

It’s not a perfect swap, but forgoing the carbs for fresh lettuce is a fun (and easy) switch that can lighten up any wrap or taco dish.

48. Corn tortilla for flour tortilla

Half the calories and fat. ‘Nuff said.

49. Nuts for croutons (in salads)

Every salad needs that extra crunch. But rather than getting the extra carbs (and often fat and sodium) that come with croutons, try some lightly toasted slivered almonds, pecans, or walnuts.

50. Whole wheat bread for white bread

We’ve heard it all before. Whole grain wheat beats out processed white for a more complete nutrition profile as well as better flavor and texture.

51. Avocado mash for mayo

Half a mashed avocado is a great substitute for mayo on any sandwich. Both give some moisture, but avocado packs a big dose of vitamin E and cholesterol-checking monosaturated fat. And while a typical 2-tablespoon serving of mayonnaise has about 206 calories and 24 grams of fat, half an avocado has only 114 calories and 10.5 grams of fat.

52. Sliced tomatoes for tomato sauce (on pizza)

Cut out the extra sodium, sugar, and preservatives by replacing jarred tomato sauce with fresh sliced tomatoes. The texture is a bit different, but the flavor becomes much more vibrant and fresh!

53. Frozen or Fresh Fruits for canned fruit

Cut down on excess sugar and preservatives by choosing fresh or flash-frozen varieties.

For Snacks

54. Veggies for pita (as a dipping tool)

Forget the pita. Fresh veggies work as killer dippers with hummus and contain both fewer carbs and more vitamins.

55. Cauliflower puree for egg yolks (in deviled eggs)

For that devilish Southern favorite— deviled eggs— try replacing half the yolks in the filling with cauliflower puree. The taste remains the same, as does the texture, but without the extra dose of cholesterol.

56. Quinoa for oatmeal

Cooked with milk (cow, almond, hemp— whatever’s on hand) and some cinnamon, quinoa makes a great, protein-packed hot breakfast.

57. Edamame hummus for regular hummus

While hummus might look innocent from the sidelines, it’s on our list of potential dangerfoods, packed with more than 50 calories per 2 tablespoons. That’s why switching to an edamame-based hummus can help reduce the danger (read: fat and calories) while still providing a delicious dip.

58. Kale chips for potato chips

Who would’ve guessed that a leafy green could make such delicious chips? When lightly tossed in olive oil and seasoning (salt and pepper, paprika, or chili powder work well) and baked, these curly greens turn into a delightfully delicate crunchy snack with less fat than the classic fried potato chip.

59. Dark chocolate for M&Ms (in trail mix)

The problem with most trail mixes? They pack in the sugar-filled, candy-coated chocolate and dried fruit. Instead, make your own trail mix with unsalted nuts and dark chocolate bits (lower in sugar), which are high in free-radical-fighting flavonoids— a benefit that completely outweighs that candy-coated sweetness.

60. Popcorn for potato chips

Lower in calories and fat, natural popcorn without pre-flavored seasonings is a great snack alternative to replace those oily, super-salty potato chips. Try made-at-home flavors by adding cinnamon, chili powder, or Parmesan.

61. Steel-cut oatmeal for instant oatmeal

Chewy and a little crunchy, these guys are nothing like their instant oatmeal cousins. While rolled oats are— literally— rolled into a flat grain, steel cut oats are diced whole grains that maintain more of their fiber-rich shell. Rich in B vitamins, calcium, and protein, steel-cut oats also lack the added sugar that often comes with instant varieties.

62. Banana ice cream for ice cream

No milk, no cream, no sugar… but the same, delicious consistency. It’s simple: freeze bananas, then puree.

63. Sweet potato fries for French fries

Opting for sweet potatoes rather than the traditional white adds an extra dose of fiber, and vitamins A, C, and B6. Plus, it cuts out roughly 20 grams of carbohydrates per 1-cup serving. Just don’t overdo it!

64. Frozen Yogurt for Ice Cream

Picking frozen yogurt over ice cream can help cut down fat content!

For Condiments & Seasonings

65. Low-fat cottage cheese for sour cream

They both add a creamy texture to many dishes, but sour cream is packed with fat while low-fat cottage cheese is packed with protein.

66. Pureed fruit for syrup

Both sweeten flapjacks or a nice whole-wheat waffle, but pureed fruit warmed on the stovetop with a bit of honey packs much less sugar than classic maple. Plus it adds a larger dose of antioxidants and vitamins.

67. Herbs or citrus juice for salt

You heard it here first: food doesn’t need to be salted to taste good! Fresh herbs and citrus juice can provide just as much flavor without the added risks of high sodium content.

68. Garlic powder for salt

Just like fresh herbs, garlic powder can provide a flavorful-punch without adding sodium. A word of warning, though: don’t mistake garlic powder for garlic salt.

69. Low-sodium soy sauce for standard soy sauce

The taste is virtually the same, but choosing a low- or reduced-sodium variety can cut out about X grams of sodium per serving!

70. Homemade salad dressing for bottled dressing

By making dressing from scratch at home, it’s easy to cut out the added sugar, sodium, and preservatives typically found in pre-made dressings. Try mixing vinegar or lemonjuice and oil in a 2:1 ratio and flavoring with spices like rosemary, thyme, oregano, and pepper!

For Drinks

71.  Seltzer water with citrus slice instead of soda

Instead of sugary sodas, opt for a glass of sparkling water with a few slices of citrus— grapefruit, lime, orange, and lemon all work well— for a little extra flavor.

72. Skim milk for whole or 2% milk

Fewer calories and fat with the same amount of protein makes this switch well worth it.

73. Cinnamon for cream and sugar (in coffee)

Cutting out the cream and sugar in favor of a sprinkle of cinnamon can cut up to 70 calories per cup. Plus, cinnamon can boost metabolism.

74. Unsweetened iced tea for juice or bottled teas

While delicious and convenient, bottled teas, juices, and sports drinks are packed with sugar and calories. When in the mood for something icy with a little flavor, opt for a homebrewed, unsweetened iced tea.

75. Americano for latte

Just by cutting the milk out of that daily latte in favor of hot water, the calorie count drops by more than 150. It’s a smart switch, especially by the 4th or 5th cup.

There’s even more at The Greatist!

75 Healthy Recipe Substitutions

From this article from The Greatist!

In Baking

1. Black beans for flour

Substituting a can of black beans (drained and rinsed) for flour in brownies is a great way to cut gluten while getting in an extra dose of protein— and they taste great.

2. Whole wheat flour for white flour

In virtually any baked good, replacing white flour with whole wheat can add a whole new dimension of nutrients, flavor, and texture. Because whole wheat includes the outer shell of the grain, it provides an extra punch of fiber, which aids in digestion and can even lower the risk of diabetes and heart disease.

3. Unsweetened applesauce for sugar

Using applesauce in place of sugar can give the necessary sweetness without the extra calories and, well, sugar. While 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce contains only about 100 calories, a cup of sugar can pack more than 770. Perfect for oatmeal raisin cookies.

4. Unsweetened applesauce for oil or butter

Don’t knock this one till you’ve tried it. The applesauce gives the right consistency and a hint of sweetness without all the fat of oil or butter. This works well in any sweet bread, like banana or zucchini, or in muffins (like in these low-fat blueberry muffins), including pre-boxed mixes.

5. Almond flour for wheat flour

This gluten-free switch gives any baked good a dose of protein, omega-3s, and a delicious nutty flavor. Check out these classic butter cookies for a simple example.

6. Avocado puree for butter

They’re both fats (albeit very different fats) and have nearly the same consistency at room temperature. The creaminess and subtle flavor of the avocado lends itself well to the texture of fudge brownies and dark chocolate flavorings. Check out this recipe for an idea of the right proportions to use.

7. Brown rice cereal and flax meal for Rice Crispies

Brown puffed rice has the same texture as conventional white rice, but with half the calories. The flaxadds extra fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and phytochemicals to the mix without changing the flavor.

8. Marshmallow Fluff for butter and sugar (in frosting)

Replacing the fat and sugar in frosting with marshmallow gets the desired consistency with fewer calories. While 2 tablespoons of Fluff has just 40 calories and 6 grams of sugar (and no fat!), the same amount of conventional frosting can pack up to 100 calories, 5 grams of fat, and 14 grams of sugar.

9. Natural peanut butter for reduced fat peanut butter

While it may appear better than traditional Skippy or Jiff, reduced fat peanut butter can actually have more sugar (and a doubly long list of artificial additives) than the original. Natural peanut butter (preferably unsalted) provides the same sweetness without chemical additives.

10. Vanilla for sugar

Cutting sugar in half and adding 1-2 teaspoons of vanilla as a replacement can give just as much flavor with significantly fewer calories. Assuming the recipe originally calls for 1 cup of sugar, that’s already almost 400 calories cut by leaving out ½ cup of sugar.

11. Mashed ripe bananas for fats

The creamy, thickening-power of mashed banana acts the same as avocado in terms of replacing fat in baking recipes. The consistency is ideal, and the bananas add nutrients like potassium, fiber, and vitamin B6.

12. Nut flours for flour

A word of caution: Nut flours don’t rise the same way as wheat flour so an additional rising agent might be needed when replacing more than ¼ cup of wheat. Many gluten-free blogs detail how to streamline nut-based baking. And while these flours are typically higher in calories and fat, they also have more fiber and protein.

13. Coconut flour for flour

High in fiber and low in carbohydrates, coconut flour is a great partial substitute for wheat flour in baking recipes.  Be careful, though— more than 1/4-1/2 cup, and the flour’s bitterness can take over.

14. Meringue for frosting

Made from just egg whites and sugar, meringue can be a great fat-free substitution for traditional frosting. Feel like going a step further? Take a torch to it. Lightly charring the edges of the meringue can add a nice caramelized flavor.

15. Graham crackers for cookies (in pie crusts)

Who doesn’t love a fresh baked cookie-crust pie? But next time, refrain from the traditional sugar or Oreo cookie crust and grab the graham crackers. Reduced-fat graham cracker pack about half the calories of the more conventional options.

16. Evaporated skim milk for cream

It’s the same consistency with a fraction of the fat. Evaporated milk tends to have a bit more sugar (only about 2 grams), but the major drop in fat content is well worth the switch.

17. Stevia for sugar

Natural sweetener stevia is lower in calories and up to 300 times sweeter than sugar. But watch the grocery bill, as this fashionable sweetener can also cost up to 5 times as much as granulated sugar.

18. Baby prunes for butter

In brownies and other dark baked goods, minced baby prunes make for a perfect butter substitute while cutting more than half the calories and fat.

19. Cacao Nibs for chocolate chips 

Those chips? Yeah, they start out as cacao nibs— the roasted bits of cocoa beans that then get ground down and turned in to chocolate. These unprocessed (or at least less processed) treats cut down on the additives and added sugar in chocolate, while also delving out a healthy dose of antioxidants.

On the Stovetop

20. Brown rice for white rice

When white rice is processed, the “brown” bran layer gets stripped away, cutting out essential nutrients (like fiber). Opt for brown rice for a fuller nutritional profile.

21. Quinoa for couscous

While couscous is made from processed wheat flour, quinoa is a whole-grain superfood packed with protein and nutrients— and they have almost the exact same texture.

22. Zucchini ribbons for pasta

Thin strips or ribbons of zucchini are a great stand in for carb-packed pastas. Plus, it’s one excuse to skip the boiling— simply sautee for a few minutes until soft.

23. Olive oil for butter

When cooking eggs, this simple switch is a great way to cut down on saturated fats while getting a healthy dose of essential omega 3 fatty acids.

24. Turnip mash for mashed potatoes

While 1 cup of mashed potatoes made with whole milk racks up about 180 calories (before the inevitable salt and butter), a cup of mashed turnip (which doesn’t need milk or butter to get that creamy consistency) has only 51 calories. Add some fresh herbs in place of the salt and it’s a much healthier version of the classic mash.

25. Grated steamed cauliflower for rice

Cut both calories and carbs with this simple switch. The texture is virtually the same, as is the taste.

26. Mashed cauliflower for mashed potatoes

Just like the turnip mash, mashed cauliflower has only a fraction of the calories of potatoes and it’s nearly impossible to taste the difference.

27. Rolled oats for breadcrumbs

While breadcrumbs can pack extra sodium, using rolled oats seasoned with herbs is a great way to sneak another whole grain into any meal.

28. Dry beans for canned beans

Canned beans are convenient, sure. But they also tend to have excess sodium and plenty of preservatives. Plus, even though the canned versions are dirt cheap, the dried are even cheaper! It may take a little more work (some simple soaking and boiling), but this switch is still worth it.

29. Prosciutto or pancetta for bacon

Bacon is often the go-to for that smoky flavor in savory dishes (and in some sweet ones). But opting for a few slices of prosciutto or pancetta can help cut both calories and fat. While bacon has about 70 calories and 6 grams of fat per 2 slices, prosciutto (where 1 slice equals about 2 slices of bacon, size wise) has just 30 calories and 4 grams of fat per slice.

30. 2 egg whites for 1 whole egg

One egg yolk holds more than half the recommended daily cholesterol for the average adult. Trading out the yolk for a second white will cut out the cholesterol while doubling the protein. If making a dish that requires more eggs, keeps 1-2 yolks for their rich vitamins A, E, D, and K content, but consider swapping the rest out.

31. Whole wheat pasta for regular pasta

Just as with bread, whole wheat pasta beats regular with a higher fiber content and about 50 fewer calories per serving (depending on the brand).

32. Crushed flax or fiber cereal for bread crumbs

Crushing a fiber-rich cereal and mixing it with some herbs makes a lower-sodium substitution for traditional breadcrumbs.

33. White meat skinless poultry for dark meat poultry

The biggest chicken debate to date: white meat vs. dark meat? The white meat has it beat— lower in calories and fat, higher in protein and iron.

34. Olive oil spray for olive oil from the bottle

Oil glugs out of the bottle, leading to overly-greasy dishes. Using a spray bottle is a great way to cut down on oil while still getting the non-stick benefits. A little mist is all that’s needed!

35. Egg Beaters for egg yolks

A solid substitution for many egg dishes (like omelets or frittatas), this switch is especially rewarding in Hollandaise sauce. To get the richness of the yolk without all the added cholesterol, use an equal amount of Egg Beaters instead when blending up this classic sauce.

36. Bison for beef

Higher in B vitamins and lower in fat bison is a great substitute for the ol’ beefy standard (when available, of course).

37. Ground Turkey for ground beef

Ground turkey (or chicken) is a great substitute for ground beef to cut down on saturated fat and calories. A reminder: because of the lower fat content, ground poultry often ends up drier than beef, but a few tablespoons of chicken stock can solve the problem.

38. Quinoa and ground turkey for rice and ground beef (in stuffed peppers)

More protein and antioxidants in the quinoa and less fat in the ground turkey make this an all-around healthier option for this popular side dish.

39. Coconut milk for cream

Coconut milk is a great substitute for heavy cream in soups and stews. And don’t be turned off by the word “coconut”— it doesn’t taste like the sweetened shredded kind!

40. Spaghetti squash for pasta

Roasted and pulled apart with a fork, spaghetti squash is a great low-carb and lower-calorie substitute for pasta.

In Sandwiches & Meals

41. Greek yogurt for sour cream

Half the fat and calories, yet the taste and texture are virtually identical. Plus, nonfat Greek yogurtoffers an extra dose of lean protein.

42. Arugula, romaine, spinach, and/or kale for iceberg lettuce

All greens are not created equal. Darker greens usually mean more nutrients like iron, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Sorry, iceberg’s just not cutting it anymore— go out and get some grown-up greens.

43. Pita for bread

One 4-inch whole-wheat pita runs around 80 calories and only 1 gram of fat (though there is some variation from brand to brand). Compare that to around 138 calories in 2 slices of whole-wheat bread.

44. Greek yogurt for mayo (in tuna/chicken salad)

Add some herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice, and they’ll taste almost identical. Plus, this swap can save 60 calories and 8 grams of fat per ounce.

45. Plain Yogurt with Fresh Fruit for flavored yogurt

Pre-flavored yogurts often come packed with extra sugar. To skip the sugar rush without sacrificing flavor, opt for plain yogurt (or better yet, plain Greek yogurt) and add fresh fruit and/or honey/agave for a hint of sweetness.

46. Nutritional yeast for cheese

The taste and texture are a little bit different, but the creamy gooiness is pretty comparable. Instead of topping that taco with cheddar, try a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavoring with less fat.

47. Lettuce leaves for tortilla wraps

It’s not a perfect swap, but forgoing the carbs for fresh lettuce is a fun (and easy) switch that can lighten up any wrap or taco dish.

48. Corn tortilla for flour tortilla

Half the calories and fat. ‘Nuff said.

49. Nuts for croutons (in salads)

Every salad needs that extra crunch. But rather than getting the extra carbs (and often fat and sodium) that come with croutons, try some lightly toasted slivered almonds, pecans, or walnuts.

50. Whole wheat bread for white bread

We’ve heard it all before. Whole grain wheat beats out processed white for a more complete nutrition profile as well as better flavor and texture.

51. Avocado mash for mayo

Half a mashed avocado is a great substitute for mayo on any sandwich. Both give some moisture, but avocado packs a big dose of vitamin E and cholesterol-checking monosaturated fat. And while a typical 2-tablespoon serving of mayonnaise has about 206 calories and 24 grams of fat, half an avocado has only 114 calories and 10.5 grams of fat.

52. Sliced tomatoes for tomato sauce (on pizza)

Cut out the extra sodium, sugar, and preservatives by replacing jarred tomato sauce with fresh sliced tomatoes. The texture is a bit different, but the flavor becomes much more vibrant and fresh!

53. Frozen or Fresh Fruits for canned fruit

Cut down on excess sugar and preservatives by choosing fresh or flash-frozen varieties.

For Snacks

54. Veggies for pita (as a dipping tool)

Forget the pita. Fresh veggies work as killer dippers with hummus and contain both fewer carbs and more vitamins.

55. Cauliflower puree for egg yolks (in deviled eggs)

For that devilish Southern favorite— deviled eggs— try replacing half the yolks in the filling with cauliflower puree. The taste remains the same, as does the texture, but without the extra dose of cholesterol.

56. Quinoa for oatmeal

Cooked with milk (cow, almond, hemp— whatever’s on hand) and some cinnamon, quinoa makes a great, protein-packed hot breakfast.

57. Edamame hummus for regular hummus

While hummus might look innocent from the sidelines, it’s on our list of potential dangerfoods, packed with more than 50 calories per 2 tablespoons. That’s why switching to an edamame-based hummus can help reduce the danger (read: fat and calories) while still providing a delicious dip.

58. Kale chips for potato chips

Who would’ve guessed that a leafy green could make such delicious chips? When lightly tossed in olive oil and seasoning (salt and pepper, paprika, or chili powder work well) and baked, these curly greens turn into a delightfully delicate crunchy snack with less fat than the classic fried potato chip.

59. Dark chocolate for M&Ms (in trail mix)

The problem with most trail mixes? They pack in the sugar-filled, candy-coated chocolate and dried fruit. Instead, make your own trail mix with unsalted nuts and dark chocolate bits (lower in sugar), which are high in free-radical-fighting flavonoids— a benefit that completely outweighs that candy-coated sweetness.

60. Popcorn for potato chips

Lower in calories and fat, natural popcorn without pre-flavored seasonings is a great snack alternative to replace those oily, super-salty potato chips. Try made-at-home flavors by adding cinnamon, chili powder, or Parmesan.

61. Steel-cut oatmeal for instant oatmeal

Chewy and a little crunchy, these guys are nothing like their instant oatmeal cousins. While rolled oats are— literally— rolled into a flat grain, steel cut oats are diced whole grains that maintain more of their fiber-rich shell. Rich in B vitamins, calcium, and protein, steel-cut oats also lack the added sugar that often comes with instant varieties.

62. Banana ice cream for ice cream

No milk, no cream, no sugar… but the same, delicious consistency. It’s simple: freeze bananas, then puree.

63. Sweet potato fries for French fries

Opting for sweet potatoes rather than the traditional white adds an extra dose of fiber, and vitamins A, C, and B6. Plus, it cuts out roughly 20 grams of carbohydrates per 1-cup serving. Just don’t overdo it!

64. Frozen Yogurt for Ice Cream

Picking frozen yogurt over ice cream can help cut down fat content!

For Condiments & Seasonings

65. Low-fat cottage cheese for sour cream

They both add a creamy texture to many dishes, but sour cream is packed with fat while low-fat cottage cheese is packed with protein.

66. Pureed fruit for syrup

Both sweeten flapjacks or a nice whole-wheat waffle, but pureed fruit warmed on the stovetop with a bit of honey packs much less sugar than classic maple. Plus it adds a larger dose of antioxidants and vitamins.

67. Herbs or citrus juice for salt

You heard it here first: food doesn’t need to be salted to taste good! Fresh herbs and citrus juice can provide just as much flavor without the added risks of high sodium content.

68. Garlic powder for salt

Just like fresh herbs, garlic powder can provide a flavorful-punch without adding sodium. A word of warning, though: don’t mistake garlic powder for garlic salt.

69. Low-sodium soy sauce for standard soy sauce

The taste is virtually the same, but choosing a low- or reduced-sodium variety can cut out about X grams of sodium per serving!

70. Homemade salad dressing for bottled dressing

By making dressing from scratch at home, it’s easy to cut out the added sugar, sodium, and preservatives typically found in pre-made dressings. Try mixing vinegar or lemonjuice and oil in a 2:1 ratio and flavoring with spices like rosemary, thyme, oregano, and pepper!

For Drinks

71.  Seltzer water with citrus slice instead of soda

Instead of sugary sodas, opt for a glass of sparkling water with a few slices of citrus— grapefruit, lime, orange, and lemon all work well— for a little extra flavor.

72. Skim milk for whole or 2% milk

Fewer calories and fat with the same amount of protein makes this switch well worth it.

73. Cinnamon for cream and sugar (in coffee)

Cutting out the cream and sugar in favor of a sprinkle of cinnamon can cut up to 70 calories per cup. Plus, cinnamon can boost metabolism.

74. Unsweetened iced tea for juice or bottled teas

While delicious and convenient, bottled teas, juices, and sports drinks are packed with sugar and calories. When in the mood for something icy with a little flavor, opt for a homebrewed, unsweetened iced tea.

75. Americano for latte

Just by cutting the milk out of that daily latte in favor of hot water, the calorie count drops by more than 150. It’s a smart switch, especially by the 4th or 5th cup.

There’s even more at The Greatist!

(Source: matchstickmolly.com, via matchstickmolly)


Monday, January 9th, 2012 @ 1:28 PM ♥2,619 notes | Permalink

(Source: muffintop-less)


Monday, January 9th, 2012 @ 2:47 AM ♥1,099 notes | Permalink
matchstickmolly:


Mini PB&F: One fig Newton with 1 teaspoon peanut butter.
Chocolate Banana: Half a frozen banana [this size] dipped in two squares of melted dark chocolate.
Frozen grapes (any color): 1 cup (about 28 grapes), stuck in the freezer for 2+ hours.
Honeyed Yogurt: ½ cup nonfat Greek yogurt with a dash of cinnamon and 1 teaspoon honey.
Spiced Orange: One orange— about the size of a tennis ball— sprinkled with cinnamon.
Grilled Pineapple: 2 ¼-inch thick pineapple rounds (about 1 cup), grilled (or sautéed) for two minutes or until golden.
Berries n’ Cream: 1 cup blueberries with 2 tablespoons whipped topping.
Stuffed Figs: Two small dried figs with 1 tablespoon reduced-fat ricotta stuffed inside. Sprinkle with cinnamon.
Oats n’ Berries:  ⅓ cup rolled oats (cooked with water), topped with cinnamon and ¼ cup freshberries.
Dark Chocolate: One block, or three squares.
Nut-Stuffed Date: One Medjool Date filled with one teaspoon natural unsalted almond butter.
Chocolate Milk: 6 ounces skim milk mixed with 2 teaspoons chocolate syrup.
Cinnamon Applesauce: 1 cup unsweetened applesauce (like Motts). Or, try this homemade version!
Citrus-Berry Salad: 1 cup mixed berry salad (raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, and/or blackberries) tossed with one tablespoon fresh-squeezed orange juice.
Maple-Pumpkin Yogurt: ½ cup non-fat regular yogurt (go Greek for extra protein!) with 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon maple syrup… like this!
Chocolate Pudding: One 4oz package. Try a fat/sugar free version or a homemade one!
Chocolate Covered Strawberries: Five strawberries dipped in two squares melted dark chocolate.
Tropical Juice Smoothie: ¼ cup pineapple juice, orange juice, and apple juice, blended with ice.
Vanilla and Banana Smoothie: ½ cup sliced banana, ¼ cup nonfat vanilla yogurt, and a handful of ice blended until smooth.
MYO Banana Chips: One sliced banana dipped in lemon juice and baked.
Baked Apple: One tennis ball-sized apple, cored, filled with 1 teaspoon brown sugar and cinnamon, and baked until tender.
Fruity Waffles: One 7-grain frozen waffle toasted and topped with ¼ cup fresh mixed berries.
Skinny S’more: Two graham crackers with one roasted marshmallow and one small square dark chocolate.
Cinnamon Graham Crackers & Peanut butter: Two graham cracker squares with 1 teaspoon peanut butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Cereal and Milk: ½ cup rice krispies with ½ cup skim milk.
Milk n’ Cookies: Five animal crackers with ½ cup skim milk.
Warm Spiced Cider: 6 ounces apple cider with sprinkles of cinnamon and nutmeg, warmed.
Citrus Sherbet: ½ cup lime sherbet (about one standard-sized ice-cream scoop) with ½ sliced kiwi.
Café Latte: 8 ounces steamed skim milk with 1 shot espresso.
Jelly Beans: 25 of ‘em! Although we don’t recommend these.
Marshmallow Pear: ½ pear diced and topped with 1 tablespoon marshmallow fluff.
Protein Shake: One scoop protein powder with 8 ounces water (choose from tasty powder flavors like cookies n’ cream and chocolate peanut butter!). 
M.Y.O. Popsicle: 8 ounces lemonade frozen in an ice pop mold, or use a small paper cup as a mold.
Apple Chips: Munch on ¾ cup of kinds like these, or use this recipe
Carrots n’ Hummus: About 10 baby carrots with 2 tablespoons hummus.
Pistachios: A couple handfuls— about 25 nuts (Crackin’ them open will take more time and avoid grabbing 25 more).
Cheese n’ Crackers: Five Kashi 7-grain crackers with 1 stick reduced-fat string cheese.
Dippy Egg: Oneover easy egg with ½ slice whole-wheat toast, sliced (to dip in yolk!).
Cheesy Breaded Tomatoes: Two roasted plum tomatoes sliced and topped with 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
Curried Sweet Potato: One medium sweet potato (about 5 inches long) cooked for six minutes in the microwave and mashed with 1 teaspoon curry, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
“Cheesy” Popcorn: 2 cups air-popped popcorn with 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast— it’ll taste like real cheese!
 Guacamole stuffed Egg Whites: Halve a hardboiled egg, remove yolk, and stuff the empty space with 2 tablespoons guacamole (avocado, lime, cilantro and salt).
Grilled Spinach and Feta Polenta: 3 oz polenta (about the size of a deck of cards) cooked with 1 ½ cups water and topped with 1 teaspoon feta cheese and a handful spinach.
Soy Edamame: ¼ cup boiled Edamame with 1 teaspoon soy sauce.
Dijon Pretzels: Two pretzel rods with 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard.
Crunchy Curried Tuna Salad: ½ cup canned tuna with 1 teaspoon curry powder, 1 tablespoon chopped red onion, and two ribs celery (chopped).
Greek Tomatoes: One tomato (about the size of a tennis ball) chopped and mixed with 1 tablespoon feta and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Shrimp Cocktail: Eight medium sized shrimp boiled and served with 2 tablespoons classic cocktail sauce.
Smoked Beef Jerky: About 1 ounce— look for low sodium versions!
Cheddar and Tomato Soup: ½ cup tomato soup with 1 tablespoon shredded low-fat cheddar cheese.
Kale Chips: ½ cup raw kale— stems removed— baked with 1 teaspoon olive oil at 400° until crisp.
Sweet Potato Fries: One light-bulb sized sweet potato sliced, tossed with 1 teaspoon olive oil, and baked at 400° for 10 minutes.
 Cucumber Sandwich: ½ English muffin with 2 tablespoons cottage cheese and three slices of cucumber.
Turkey Roll-Ups: Four slices smoked turkey rolled up and dipped in 2 teaspoons honey mustard.
Mixed Olives: About 8 olives.
Antipasto Plate: One Pepperocini, a ½ inch cube of cheddar cheese, one slice pepperoni, and one olive.
 Pumpkin Seeds: 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds, sprayed with oil (just a spritz!) and baked at for 400° for 15 minutes or until brown. Sprinkle with kosher salt.
Choco-Soy Nuts: 3 tablespoons soy nuts with 1 teaspoon cocoa nibs.
Wasabi Peas: About  ⅓ cup of these green treats.
Balsamic Veggies: 3 cups raw peppers (any color!) dipped in 2 tablespoons balsamic reduction.
Cheesy Roasted Asparagus: Four spears (spritzed with olive-oil spray) and topped with 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese, baked for 10 minutes at 400°.
Cucumber salad: One large cucumber (sliced) with 2 tablespoons chopped red onion and 2 tablespoons apple-cider vinegar.
Spinach and Feta Egg-White Scramble: Three egg whites scrambled and mixed with ½ cup raw spinach and 1 tbsp feta cheese. Cook in frying pan or zap in microwave until egg whites are no longer runny (about 1-2 minutes).
Crunchy Kale Salad: 1 cup kale leaves chopped with 1 teaspoon honey and 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar.
Chick Pea Salad: ¼ chickpeas with 1 tablespoon sliced scallions, a squeeze of lemon juice, and ¼ cup diced tomatoes.
Grilled Garlic Corn on the Cob: One small-sized ear brushed with 1 teaspoon sautéed minced garlic and 1 teaspoon olive oil, grilled until tender.
Pretzels & Cream Cheese: 15mini pretzel sticks with 2 tablespoons fat-free cream cheese.
 Bacon Brussels Salad: Seven brussel spouts thinly sliced and mixed with one piece lean bacon, chopped.
Rosemary Potatoes:  ⅓ cup thinly sliced potato tossed with 1 teaspoons olive oil and a teaspoon of chopped rosemary.
Spicy Black Beans: ¼ cup black beans with 1 tablespoon salsa and 1 tablespoon non-fat Greek yogurt.
Caprese Salad: 1 ounce (hockey puck sized) of fresh mozzarella with ½ cup cherry tomatoes and 2 teaspoons of balsamic vinegar.
Goldfish: About 40 fishies…try the cheddar kind!
Chips n’ Salsa: 10 baked tortilla chips with ¼ cup salsa.
Mini Ham Sandwich: Two slices honey-baked ham with 2 teaspoons honey mustard rolled in a lettuce leaf.
Lox Bagel: ½ whole-wheat mini bagel with two thin slices of lox.
Chocolate Trail Mix: Eight almonds, four chocolate chips, and 1 tablespoon raisins.
Apples and Cheese: 1 non-fat mozzarella cheese stick with half of a baseball-sized apple (any variety), sliced.
PB & Celery: 1 medium celery stalk with 1 tablespoon peanut butter.
Cottage Cheese Melon Boat: 1 cup melon balls with ½ cup non-fat cottage cheese.
Carrot and Raisin Salad: 1 cup shaved carrots with 2 tablespoons raisins and 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar.
Tropical Cottage Cheese: ½ cup non-fat cottage cheese with ½ cup fresh mango and pineapple, chopped.
Blue-Cheese Stuffed Apricots: Three dried apricots with 1 tablespoon crumbled blue cheese.
Rice Cake and Almond Butter: One rice cake (try brown rice!) with 2 teaspoons almond butter.
Sweet n’ Spicy Pecans: Five pecans roasted with 2 teaspoons maple syrup and 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
Apples n’ Peanut Butter: ½ an apple, sliced and dipped in 1 teaspoon natural peanut butter.
Chocolate Hazelnut Crackers: Four wheat thins dipped in 1 teaspoon Nutella (or other hazelnut spread).
Strawberry Salad: 1 cup raw spinach with ½ cup sliced strawberries and 1 tablespoon balsamic.
Cacao-Roasted Almonds: Pop in eight almonds like these
Adapted from this article. Photo credit

matchstickmolly:

  1. Mini PB&F: One fig Newton with 1 teaspoon peanut butter.
  2. Chocolate Banana: Half a frozen banana [this size] dipped in two squares of melted dark chocolate.
  3. Frozen grapes (any color): 1 cup (about 28 grapes), stuck in the freezer for 2+ hours.
  4. Honeyed Yogurt: ½ cup nonfat Greek yogurt with a dash of cinnamon and 1 teaspoon honey.
  5. Spiced Orange: One orange— about the size of a tennis ball— sprinkled with cinnamon.
  6. Grilled Pineapple: 2 ¼-inch thick pineapple rounds (about 1 cup), grilled (or sautéed) for two minutes or until golden.
  7. Berries n’ Cream: 1 cup blueberries with 2 tablespoons whipped topping.
  8. Stuffed Figs: Two small dried figs with 1 tablespoon reduced-fat ricotta stuffed inside. Sprinkle with cinnamon.
  9. Oats n’ Berries:  ⅓ cup rolled oats (cooked with water), topped with cinnamon and ¼ cup freshberries.
  10. Dark Chocolate: One block, or three squares.
  11. Nut-Stuffed Date: One Medjool Date filled with one teaspoon natural unsalted almond butter.
  12. Chocolate Milk: 6 ounces skim milk mixed with 2 teaspoons chocolate syrup.
  13. Cinnamon Applesauce: 1 cup unsweetened applesauce (like Motts). Or, try this homemade version!
  14. Citrus-Berry Salad: 1 cup mixed berry salad (raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, and/or blackberries) tossed with one tablespoon fresh-squeezed orange juice.
  15. Maple-Pumpkin Yogurt: ½ cup non-fat regular yogurt (go Greek for extra protein!) with 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon maple syrup… like this!
  16. Chocolate Pudding: One 4oz package. Try a fat/sugar free version or a homemade one!
  17. Chocolate Covered Strawberries: Five strawberries dipped in two squares melted dark chocolate.
  18. Tropical Juice Smoothie: ¼ cup pineapple juice, orange juice, and apple juice, blended with ice.
  19. Vanilla and Banana Smoothie: ½ cup sliced banana, ¼ cup nonfat vanilla yogurt, and a handful of ice blended until smooth.
  20. MYO Banana Chips: One sliced banana dipped in lemon juice and baked.
  21. Baked Apple: One tennis ball-sized apple, cored, filled with 1 teaspoon brown sugar and cinnamon, and baked until tender.
  22. Fruity Waffles: One 7-grain frozen waffle toasted and topped with ¼ cup fresh mixed berries.
  23. Skinny S’more: Two graham crackers with one roasted marshmallow and one small square dark chocolate.
  24. Cinnamon Graham Crackers & Peanut butter: Two graham cracker squares with 1 teaspoon peanut butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
  25. Cereal and Milk: ½ cup rice krispies with ½ cup skim milk.
  26. Milk n’ Cookies: Five animal crackers with ½ cup skim milk.
  27. Warm Spiced Cider: 6 ounces apple cider with sprinkles of cinnamon and nutmeg, warmed.
  28. Citrus Sherbet: ½ cup lime sherbet (about one standard-sized ice-cream scoop) with ½ sliced kiwi.
  29. Café Latte: 8 ounces steamed skim milk with 1 shot espresso.
  30. Jelly Beans: 25 of ‘em! Although we don’t recommend these.
  31. Marshmallow Pear: ½ pear diced and topped with 1 tablespoon marshmallow fluff.
  32. Protein Shake: One scoop protein powder with 8 ounces water (choose from tasty powder flavors like cookies n’ cream and chocolate peanut butter!). 
  33. M.Y.O. Popsicle: 8 ounces lemonade frozen in an ice pop mold, or use a small paper cup as a mold.
  34. Apple Chips: Munch on ¾ cup of kinds like these, or use this recipe
  35. Carrots n’ Hummus: About 10 baby carrots with 2 tablespoons hummus.
  36. Pistachios: A couple handfuls— about 25 nuts (Crackin’ them open will take more time and avoid grabbing 25 more).
  37. Cheese n’ Crackers: Five Kashi 7-grain crackers with 1 stick reduced-fat string cheese.
  38. Dippy Egg: Oneover easy egg with ½ slice whole-wheat toast, sliced (to dip in yolk!).
  39. Cheesy Breaded Tomatoes: Two roasted plum tomatoes sliced and topped with 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
  40. Curried Sweet Potato: One medium sweet potato (about 5 inches long) cooked for six minutes in the microwave and mashed with 1 teaspoon curry, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
  41. “Cheesy” Popcorn: 2 cups air-popped popcorn with 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast— it’ll taste like real cheese!
  42.  Guacamole stuffed Egg Whites: Halve a hardboiled egg, remove yolk, and stuff the empty space with 2 tablespoons guacamole (avocado, lime, cilantro and salt).
  43. Grilled Spinach and Feta Polenta: 3 oz polenta (about the size of a deck of cards) cooked with 1 ½ cups water and topped with 1 teaspoon feta cheese and a handful spinach.
  44. Soy Edamame: ¼ cup boiled Edamame with 1 teaspoon soy sauce.
  45. Dijon Pretzels: Two pretzel rods with 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard.
  46. Crunchy Curried Tuna Salad: ½ cup canned tuna with 1 teaspoon curry powder, 1 tablespoon chopped red onion, and two ribs celery (chopped).
  47. Greek Tomatoes: One tomato (about the size of a tennis ball) chopped and mixed with 1 tablespoon feta and a squeeze of lemon juice.
  48. Shrimp Cocktail: Eight medium sized shrimp boiled and served with 2 tablespoons classic cocktail sauce.
  49. Smoked Beef Jerky: About 1 ounce— look for low sodium versions!
  50. Cheddar and Tomato Soup: ½ cup tomato soup with 1 tablespoon shredded low-fat cheddar cheese.
  51. Kale Chips: ½ cup raw kale— stems removed— baked with 1 teaspoon olive oil at 400° until crisp.
  52. Sweet Potato Fries: One light-bulb sized sweet potato sliced, tossed with 1 teaspoon olive oil, and baked at 400° for 10 minutes.
  53.  Cucumber Sandwich: ½ English muffin with 2 tablespoons cottage cheese and three slices of cucumber.
  54. Turkey Roll-Ups: Four slices smoked turkey rolled up and dipped in 2 teaspoons honey mustard.
  55. Mixed Olives: About 8 olives.
  56. Antipasto Plate: One Pepperocini, a ½ inch cube of cheddar cheese, one slice pepperoni, and one olive.
  57.  Pumpkin Seeds: 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds, sprayed with oil (just a spritz!) and baked at for 400° for 15 minutes or until brown. Sprinkle with kosher salt.
  58. Choco-Soy Nuts: 3 tablespoons soy nuts with 1 teaspoon cocoa nibs.
  59. Wasabi Peas: About  ⅓ cup of these green treats.
  60. Balsamic Veggies: 3 cups raw peppers (any color!) dipped in 2 tablespoons balsamic reduction.
  61. Cheesy Roasted Asparagus: Four spears (spritzed with olive-oil spray) and topped with 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese, baked for 10 minutes at 400°.
  62. Cucumber salad: One large cucumber (sliced) with 2 tablespoons chopped red onion and 2 tablespoons apple-cider vinegar.
  63. Spinach and Feta Egg-White Scramble: Three egg whites scrambled and mixed with ½ cup raw spinach and 1 tbsp feta cheese. Cook in frying pan or zap in microwave until egg whites are no longer runny (about 1-2 minutes).
  64. Crunchy Kale Salad: 1 cup kale leaves chopped with 1 teaspoon honey and 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar.
  65. Chick Pea Salad: ¼ chickpeas with 1 tablespoon sliced scallions, a squeeze of lemon juice, and ¼ cup diced tomatoes.
  66. Grilled Garlic Corn on the Cob: One small-sized ear brushed with 1 teaspoon sautéed minced garlic and 1 teaspoon olive oil, grilled until tender.
  67. Pretzels & Cream Cheese: 15mini pretzel sticks with 2 tablespoons fat-free cream cheese.
  68.  Bacon Brussels Salad: Seven brussel spouts thinly sliced and mixed with one piece lean bacon, chopped.
  69. Rosemary Potatoes:  ⅓ cup thinly sliced potato tossed with 1 teaspoons olive oil and a teaspoon of chopped rosemary.
  70. Spicy Black Beans: ¼ cup black beans with 1 tablespoon salsa and 1 tablespoon non-fat Greek yogurt.
  71. Caprese Salad: 1 ounce (hockey puck sized) of fresh mozzarella with ½ cup cherry tomatoes and 2 teaspoons of balsamic vinegar.
  72. Goldfish: About 40 fishies…try the cheddar kind!
  73. Chips n’ Salsa: 10 baked tortilla chips with ¼ cup salsa.
  74. Mini Ham Sandwich: Two slices honey-baked ham with 2 teaspoons honey mustard rolled in a lettuce leaf.
  75. Lox Bagel: ½ whole-wheat mini bagel with two thin slices of lox.
  76. Chocolate Trail Mix: Eight almonds, four chocolate chips, and 1 tablespoon raisins.
  77. Apples and Cheese: 1 non-fat mozzarella cheese stick with half of a baseball-sized apple (any variety), sliced.
  78. PB & Celery: 1 medium celery stalk with 1 tablespoon peanut butter.
  79. Cottage Cheese Melon Boat: 1 cup melon balls with ½ cup non-fat cottage cheese.
  80. Carrot and Raisin Salad: 1 cup shaved carrots with 2 tablespoons raisins and 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar.
  81. Tropical Cottage Cheese: ½ cup non-fat cottage cheese with ½ cup fresh mango and pineapple, chopped.
  82. Blue-Cheese Stuffed Apricots: Three dried apricots with 1 tablespoon crumbled blue cheese.
  83. Rice Cake and Almond Butter: One rice cake (try brown rice!) with 2 teaspoons almond butter.
  84. Sweet n’ Spicy Pecans: Five pecans roasted with 2 teaspoons maple syrup and 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
  85. Apples n’ Peanut Butter: ½ an apple, sliced and dipped in 1 teaspoon natural peanut butter.
  86. Chocolate Hazelnut Crackers: Four wheat thins dipped in 1 teaspoon Nutella (or other hazelnut spread).
  87. Strawberry Salad: 1 cup raw spinach with ½ cup sliced strawberries and 1 tablespoon balsamic.
  88. Cacao-Roasted Almonds: Pop in eight almonds like these

Adapted from this article. Photo credit

(via matchstickmolly)


Saturday, January 7th, 2012 @ 9:44 PM ♥9,505 notes | Permalink
 

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