Rich, decadent meals that make you feel warm and content are frequently linked to comfort food. Despite their deliciousness, these meals aren’t always the healthiest and can occasionally be heavy. Thankfully, it is feasible to maintain a healthy and light diet while yet indulging in the soothing flavors you desire. These five guilt-free, healthful takes on your favorite comfort food staples will satisfy you just as much.
1. Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
The classic type of mac and cheese can be high in fat and calories, despite being the perfect comfort food. A cauliflower-based sauce is used in place of the creamy cheese sauce in this healthier version of the traditional. You can achieve a creamy, cheesy texture without adding extra calories by boiling cauliflower and then mixing it with nutritional yeast, garlic, and a little amount of almond milk. A tasty, lighter version of mac and cheese that is just as creamy and cozy as the original may be made by using whole grain or gluten-free macaroni for an added fiber boost.
2. Zucchini Noodles with Turkey Meatballs
Although it can be high in carbohydrates, spaghetti and meatballs is a classic comfort food dish. To make it lighter, use zucchini noodles (sometimes known as “zoodles”) instead of ordinary pasta. Zucchini noodles have a delightful crisp and fresh flavor while being low in calories and carbs. To cut down on fat, serve them with lean turkey meatballs rather than regular beef. You can make a healthy version of spaghetti and meatballs that is just as filling and tasty as the original by topping it with a basic marinara sauce made with canned tomatoes, garlic, and basil.
3. Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie
A popular comfort food, shepherd’s pie is frequently topped with mashed potatoes. Replace the mashed potatoes with mashed sweet potatoes for a healthier variation. Sweet potatoes are a fantastic substitute for ordinary potatoes because they are high in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. For a lower-fat filling, use plant-based meat or lean ground turkey. For extra nutrients and taste, add peas, carrots, and onions. Finally, cover the casserole with a thin layer of mashed sweet potatoes. This nutrient-rich and equally delightful shepherd’s pie can be baked till brown and bubbling.
4. Cauliflower Fried Rice
Although fried rice is a common comfort dish, it can be high in sodium and carbohydrates. Use cauliflower rice instead of white rice to make it healthier. In addition to being low in calories and carbohydrates, cauliflower rice is a fantastic method to sneak in extra veggies. Just pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it looks like rice, then add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, and peas, along with a protein source, such as tofu, chicken, or shrimp. For a flavorful, lighter, and savory take on fried rice, add a little sesame oil and low-sodium soy sauce.
5. Baked Sweet Potato Fries
A traditional comfort food, french fries are frequently deep-fried and high in harmful fats. Baked sweet potato fries are a healthier option. In addition to having a natural sweetness that goes well with a savory seasoning combination, sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. Just chop sweet potatoes into fries, mix with salt, pepper, olive oil, and paprika, then bake over high heat until crispy. Despite having less calories and far more nutrients than regular fries, these baked sweet potato fries are just as crispy and filling.
