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How to Make Holiday Foods Healthier

Swap out the Butter

Substitute equal amounts of low-fat plain yogurt or fat-free pureed cottage cheese for the cream or butter in mashed potatoes. Use Canola oil instead of some of the butter in cookies to reduce the saturated fat.

Roast a Leaner Bird

Instead of slathering the turkey with butter, rub it with a mixture of olive oil and crushed herbs (try rosemary, sage, a little garlic, & black pepper). Or slip herbs or seasonings under the skin of the turkey. Use a roasting rack to allow the fat to drain from the roast. Baste with fat free chicken stock mixed with orange or cranberry juice instead or turkey drippings.

turkey

Defat your Gravy

For an easy, low-fat gravy, stir 1 Tbs. of cornstarch into 1/4 cup of fat-free chicken broth at room temperature. Bring another 1 1/2 cups of broth to a simmer, and whisk in the cornstarch mixture. Allow gravy to simmer, stirring until clear and thickened.

Lose the Yolks

Substitute 2 egg whites for 1 whole egg or 3 whites for 2 whole eggs.

Stir in Fruit

Replace half the oil or butter in your baked goods with applesauce or other pureed fruit.

Half the Sugar

Substitute half the sugar of a recipe with a sugar substitute such as Splenda.

Fruit

Opt for dried fruit instead of candied fruit.

fruit

For Extra Flavor

Try citrus peel, extracts and spices!

Don’t Forget the Nuts

In a moderate amount nuts are good for you, especially walnuts, almonds, or pecans.

Return to Winter Holiday Tips and Recipes

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