Be Healthy Blog

Healthy and Hearty for the Holidays

The holidays are notorious for unhealthy (albeit tasty) food and overeating…especially at the annual get-togethers. If you are hosting a holiday soiree, consider these healthy yet yummy holiday food tips I’ve gathered from various Utah catering companies.

• Skip the appetizers high in fat, sugar and calories (i.e. chips and dips). Serve shrimp and cocktail sauce, crudités, and fresh seasonal fruit.
• Use the light varieties of sour cream and butter in your cooking – you won’t be able to taste the difference!
• Sauté food in citrus juice, chicken juice, or balsamic vinegar instead of butter or oil.
• If you will be serving alcoholic beverages, opt for light beer or wine – all the taste without the calories and fat.
• Coffee and punch with low calories make great drinks for those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks.
• Use smaller plates and serving dishes. While there will be those guests who simply don’t get the hint, it could actually help reduce overeating among your guests.
• Reduce sodium by using herbs and spices instead of salt and using low-sodium options of cooking ingredients such as broth and butter.
• Applesauce or sugar substitutes (i.e. Splenda) can replace sugar in some baked goods without compromising taste.
• When serving meat, choose lean cuts and bake or grill them. Healthy but delicious meats include turkey, chicken, and fish.