I consider myself a foodie who enjoys rich, decadent, and absolutely delicious meals from time to time. But, even sporadically having those kinds of meals for me can lead me to eating that way more often than I'd like. So, I've learned to enjoy food more without all the 'bells and whistles,' Okay, I'll be blunt. Without all the fat, butter, sugar, heavy cream, etc. that helps many restaurants to thrive.
Here are some great substitute options for meals or recipes. Give them a try and you won't miss all the extras. Do you have any more to share?
SUBSTITUTE 'X' for...
BACON for Canadian bacon, turkey bakon, smoked turkey or lean prosciutto
BREAD (white) for Whole grain bread
BREAD CRUMBS (dry) for Rolled oats or crushed bran cereal
BUTTER, MARGARINE, SHORTENING or OIL (to prevent sticking) for Cooking spray or nonstick pans
BUTTER or OIL in Baking for Mashed Avoca
CROUTONS in SALADS or GRANOLA in YOGURT for Nuts (walnuts and almonds, which are heart-healthy)
CREAM for Fat-free half-and-half or evaporated skim milk
EGGS for Two egg whites or 1/4 C egg substitute for each whole egg
FLOUR (all-purpose, plain) for Whole wheat flour
GROUND BEEF for extra-lean or lean ground beef; ground chicken breast; or turkey (without poultry skin)
OIL, BUTTER, or SUGAR for Applesauce
SOUR CREAM for Nonfat Greek yogurt
SUGAR, BUTTER and FATS for Mashed bananas