The holiday season can be a time of indulgence and excess, making it hard to stay on track with healthy eating goals.
However, the start of a new year provides the perfect opportunity to reset and refocus on wellness, including making healthier food choices.
If you’re planning a New Year’s feast, it’s easy to get carried away with high-calorie dishes and drinks. But fear not! Here are 30 tips for a low calorie, high flavor feast that will keep you feeling satisfied and on track with your health goals.
1. Plan ahead
Before you start shopping, plan your menu and make a list of all the ingredients you’ll need. This will help you avoid impulse buys and ensure you have everything you need for a healthy feast.
2. Use lean protein sources
Choose lean sources of protein, such as skinless chicken breast, turkey, fish, and legumes, which are low in calories and high in nutrients.
3. Opt for whole grains
Swap white flour and refined grains for whole grain options like brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat pasta. These options are higher in fiber and will keep you feeling fuller for longer.
4. Use herbs and spices
Add flavor to your dishes without adding calories by using herbs, spices, and citrus fruits to season your food. These add flavor and depth to your dishes without the need for extra salt or sugar.
5. Choose healthy fats
Swap out heavy cream and butter for healthier fats like olive oil, avocado, and nuts. These options are high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are good for heart health and lower in calories than saturated fats.
6. Focus on vegetables
Fill up your plate with colorful, nutrient-dense vegetables like dark leafy greens, broccoli, bell peppers, and sweet potatoes. These will help you feel full and satisfied while keeping your calorie intake low.
7. Roast your veggies
Roasting vegetables is a great way to bring out their natural sweetness and flavors without the need for added fats or oils. Plus, roasted vegetables make a great side dish for any meal!.
8. Use low-calorie dressings and sauces
Avoid calorie-laden dressings and sauces and opt for low-calorie options like balsamic vinaigrette, salsa, and mustard. These options will add flavor without adding unnecessary calories.
9. Make your own dips and spreads
Instead of buying pre-made dips and spreads, make your own using healthier ingredients like hummus, guacamole, or yogurt-based dips. These options are lower in calories and higher in nutrients than store-bought options.
10. Choose seafood
Seafood is a great low-calorie option that’s high in omega-3 fatty acids. Try grilled shrimp, baked salmon, or seared scallops for a healthy and delicious main course.
11. Skip the frying
Avoid deep-frying dishes and opt for healthier cooking methods like grilling, broiling, baking, or roasting. These methods require less added fats and calories than frying and produce delicious and healthy dishes.
12. Serve fruit-based desserts
Swap high-calorie, sugar-laden desserts for fruit-based options like baked apples, fruit salad, or sorbet. These options are lower in calories and higher in nutrients than traditional desserts.
13. Use Greek yogurt as a substitute
Greek yogurt is a great substitute for heavier ingredients like sour cream or cream cheese. This option is lower in calories and higher in protein, making it a healthier choice.
14. Drink water
Avoid high-calorie drinks like soda, juice, and alcohol, and opt for water instead. Drinking water before and during a meal can help you feel full and prevent overeating.
15. Control portion sizes
Practice portion control to keep your calorie intake in check. Use smaller plates and measure out your portions to avoid overeating and sabotaging your healthy eating goals.
16. Make your own dips and spreads
Instead of buying pre-made dips and spreads, make your own using healthier ingredients like hummus, guacamole, or yogurt-based dips. These options are lower in calories and higher in nutrients than store-bought options.
17. Try steaming
Steaming is a great way to cook vegetables and seafood without added fats. Steamed dishes are a healthy and delicious option for any meal.
18. Use a slow cooker
A slow cooker is a great tool for making healthy and flavorful dishes without the need for added fats or oils. Make healthy soups, stews, and meat dishes that are sure to please.
19. Use non-stick pans
Non-stick pans require less oil or cooking spray, making them a healthier option for cooking. Plus, they’re easy to clean!.
20. Choose high-fiber snacks
Choose high-fiber snacks like fresh fruit, nuts, and veggies to keep you feeling full and satisfied between meals. These options are low in calories and high in nutrients.
21. Be mindful of alcohol consumption
Alcohol is high in calories and can add up quickly. Be mindful of your alcohol consumption and opt for lower calorie options like light beer or wine spritzers.
22. Try plant-based dishes
Plant-based dishes are a great way to get plenty of nutrients without the need for high-calorie animal products. Try dishes like vegetarian chili, lentil soup, or roasted vegetable stir-fry.
23. Use low-sodium broth
Use low-sodium broth instead of water when making soup or stew. This adds flavor without the need for added salt, keeping your sodium intake in check.
24. Choose low-fat dairy
Choose low-fat or fat-free dairy products like skim milk or Greek yogurt. These options are lower in calories and higher in nutrients than full-fat options.
25. Try cauliflower rice
Cauliflower rice is a great substitute for traditional rice and is lower in calories and higher in fiber. Use it in stir-fries, burrito bowls, or as a side dish for any meal.
26. Get creative with vegetables
Get creative with your vegetable selection and try new options like spaghetti squash, zucchini noodles, or roasted root veggies. These options add flavor and variety to your meals while keeping them low in calories.
27. Use low-sodium canned goods
Use low-sodium canned goods like beans and tomatoes in your dishes to add flavor without adding salt. These options are lower in calories and higher in nutrients than their high-sodium counterparts.
28. Incorporate healthy fats into your meals
Choose healthy fat options when cooking like avocado, nuts, and olive oil. These options are lower in calories and higher in nutrients than other high-fat options like butter or heavy cream.
29. Use low-calorie sweeteners
Use low-calorie sweeteners like stevia, monk fruit, or honey in your dishes to add sweetness without adding calories. These options are a healthy and delicious alternative to sugar.
30. Practice mindful eating
Practice mindful eating by slowing down your eating and focusing on your food. Listen to your body and stop eating when you feel full. This will help you avoid overeating and keep your calorie intake in check.