Let’s face it, if we could eat pizza, chicken fingers and ice cream every day and still weigh and feel the way we do right now, we would be all about it. However, a healthy diet according to MyPlate.Gov does not suggest those options to be consumed in large amounts or all the time. With that being said, what should an on the go college student be eating that’s healthy and as delicious as our favorite junk food? Here are some easy swaps to make our favorite meals a little healthier.
1. Pasta
So you love your pasta, lasagna and other noodle dishes. Well, here’s a fun swap: replace your pasta with green and yellow squash or spaghetti squash. You can find a ton of recipes online to make your favorite pasta dishes but with vegetables. You’ll get a similar meal that you’re craving for and an extra helping of vegetables.
2. Mashed Potatoes
Transform your favorite side dish into something a lot healthier by using cauliflower instead of potatoes. Cauliflower has an abundant amount of different vitamins, mineral and antioxidants that are need in our diets like omega-3s.
3. Hamburger Buns
So you have two options here. This might be a bit out there, but if you are a mushroom fan try using portabello mushrooms as buns! You can season them however you please or even stuff them. They make great buns and are super healthy. For those that are not into mushrooms, try using iceberg lettuce as your bun. This low carbohydrate option can make the meat you’re using be the star of your meal not just the bread.
4. French Fries
Are you craving your salty and starchy friends? Try swapping for zucchini fries, carrot fries, or even veggies chips. You can bake your favorite vegetables into “fries” that are a lot healthier than your usual fast food treat. You can even bake potatoes or sweet potatoes to make a healthier french fry.
5. Sour Cream
So you’re having a Mexican night with your friends or you’re having a baked potato and you want some sour cream. Try replacing your sour cream for a higher protein alternative like Greek yogurt. Trust me, it might be a bit tangier but the protein and probiotic factors make this option a definite reason to swap it out for sour cream.
In general, what’s important is that you keep everything in moderation and enjoy what you’re eating. So definitely try these combinations to make healthy eating fun!
