Beyond Bland: Re-thinking Healthy Recipes

Counting calories; continually scouring nutrition labels; and munching away on kale, quinoa, or the latest super grain or green of the week—dieting never really seems “fun.”

It’s true. A healthful, nutritious diet requires giving up a lot of the tasty foods we all love, but making smarter choices doesn’t mean you have to give up flavor.

After all, a little variety, new flavors, and experimentation will keep you engaged in your new diet and help you see the results you want.

A Fresh Approach to Healthy Recipes

Chances are you’re already familiar with some of the foods you should and should not be eating. What makes dieting really difficult, however, is cooking recipes that are as satisfying as they are nutritious.

Breathe some life into your plate by following these suggestions:

Get saucy. Many sauces can pack punches of flavor without tacking on unwanted calories. Low-calorie dressings and hot sauces will liven up a vast variety of dishes, making them more filling and enjoyable.

Switch it up. Tired of cooking the same old meals? Try swapping familiar ingredients with new foods. A little experimentation can go a long way, and branching out a little can help you discover new favorites and stretch your personal creativity!

Think seasonally. Purchasing fruits and vegetables that are in season is not only a more responsible and nutritious cooking strategy, it can also encourage you to pick ingredients you might otherwise overlook. Purchasing seasonal ingredients from your local farmers market can also help you save money on your monthly grocery bill.

Simplify, simplify. Cooking the same complicated recipes over and over can quickly burn you on a long list of ingredients. Instead of trying to cram 25 ingredients into one meal, focus on using just four or five for each meal. This will leave another 20 or so ingredients to use in other meals.

Cook for others. Feeling uninspired in the kitchen? Have some people for a dinner party and force yourself to use your imagination. When you’re entertaining others, you certainly don’t want to cook the same meals you prepare for yourself. Think outside the box and make it an evening to remember.

When the Going Gets Tough

It goes without saying that significant lifestyle changes—including revamping your diet—can be frustrating. However, keeping your motivation and maintaining your willpower is essential for long-term success.

If you find yourself on the verge of giving up, just think of all the reasons you started on your path to healthier living. Seek out friends or an online community where you can air your frustrations and keep your eyes on your goal.

Focusing on where you want to be and how you plan to get there will contribute to your success tremendously.

Need a little help staying on track with your healthy diet? Consider one of our meal plans. Our meal plans offer self-guided weight loss and weight management with the convenience of delicious, portioned-controlled meals, easy-to-follow schedules, helpful online tools, and guidance to help you develop healthy eating habits for life. Browse our WonderSlim plans and choose one that works for you here!