Easter is a time of celebration, family, and feasting. However, it can also be a time where we overindulge in high-calorie foods and undo our healthy habits.

Many traditional Easter foods are loaded with calories, sugar, and fat, making it challenging to stay on track during this time. In this article, we will discuss the calories to avoid on your Easter table to help you make healthier choices without sacrificing taste.

Easter Ham

Easter ham is a staple food for many families. This salty, cured meat is delicious but can contain high amounts of sodium and saturated fat. A 3-ounce serving of ham can have as much as 550 mg of sodium and 7 grams of saturated fat.

To cut down on calories, look for low-sodium options or trim visible fat before cooking. You can also try a leaner meat alternative like turkey or chicken.

Potato Salad

Potato salad is another Easter classic. While it may seem like a healthy side dish, it can pack a hefty caloric punch. Potato salad often contains mayonnaise, sour cream, or other high-fat dressings, leading to excess calories.

A 1-cup serving of potato salad can have up to 350 calories and 22 grams of fat. Consider making a healthier version by swapping out creamy dressings for a vinaigrette or using Greek yogurt instead of mayo.

Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are a crowd-pleaser, but their calorie count can be deceiving. Deviled eggs are made with egg yolks, which contain high amounts of cholesterol and fat. A single deviled egg can have up to 100 calories and 8 grams of fat.

Instead, you can boil the eggs and remove the yolks to make a healthier version. You can also add flavor with herbs or spices instead of relying on mayo-based fillings.

Hot Cross Buns

Hot cross buns are a sweet and spicy Easter treat, but they can contain a lot of sugar and refined flour. A single hot cross bun can have up to 200 calories and 20 grams of sugar.

Consider making your own hot cross buns with whole-grain flour and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. You can also try other healthier Easter treats like fresh fruit salad or roasted vegetables.

Easter Candy

Easter candy is a temptation that’s hard to resist, but it can add up to a lot of calories quickly. Chocolate bunnies, marshmallow Peeps, and jelly beans can all contain high amounts of sugar and fat.

A typical chocolate bunny has around 750 calories and 65 grams of sugar. Instead of indulging in Easter candy, try eating dark chocolate or making your own healthier treats like fruit and nut bars or smoothie bowls.

Creamed Spinach

Creamed spinach is a popular side dish for Easter dinner, but it can contain a lot of calories and saturated fat. A 1-cup serving of creamed spinach can have up to 200 calories and 10 grams of saturated fat.

Consider making a healthier version by using low-fat milk or cream and adding flavor with garlic, shallots, or herbs.

Cheesecake

Cheesecake is a rich and creamy dessert that’s hard to resist, but it can contain a lot of calories and saturated fat. A single slice of cheesecake can have up to 500 calories and 20 grams of saturated fat.

Consider making a crustless cheesecake or using a low-fat cream cheese and yogurt as a base.

Scalloped Potatoes

Scalloped potatoes are another Easter classic that can be full of calories and fat. A 1-cup serving of scalloped potatoes can have up to 400 calories and 20 grams of fat.

Consider making a healthier version by using low-fat milk or broth instead of heavy cream, and adding flavor with onion or garlic.

Baked Ham

Baked ham is another traditional Easter food that can be high in calories and sodium. A 3-ounce serving of baked ham can have up to 400 mg of sodium and 6 grams of saturated fat.

Consider cooking your ham with fruit or herbs instead of a sugary glaze and trimming visible fat before serving.

Candied Yams

Candied yams or sweet potatoes are another popular Easter side dish that can be high in calories and sugar. A 1-cup serving of candied yams can have up to 350 calories and 40 grams of sugar.

Consider making a healthier version by roasting sweet potatoes with olive oil and herbs, or using natural sweeteners like maple syrup or cinnamon.

In conclusion, Easter is a time to celebrate, but it’s essential to be mindful of the calories we consume.

By avoiding high-calorie foods like Easter ham, potato salad, deviled eggs, hot cross buns, Easter candy, creamed spinach, cheesecake, scalloped potatoes, baked ham, and candied yams, we can still enjoy the holiday without sacrificing our health.