New Year’s Resolutions? Let’s Make them Delicious!
Who Says Healthy has to be Flavorless?
It’s that time of year when we all vow to get fit. Gyms will soon be packed with food-lovers like me, trying to shed holiday weight—and maybe even a few pounds still lingering from 2023. But let’s be honest: getting healthy is hard, especially when there’s a little devil on your shoulder reminding you about the chocolate cake in the fridge. This year, instead of torturing myself to lead a healthier lifestyle, I’m taking a new route. Forget steamed fish and broccoli—I'm finding ways to enjoy my favorite meals with a healthy twist, and to help you do the same I’ve included some of my favorite healthy-ish tips, tricks and recipes in this newsletter.
I hope you’ll join me in making healthier choices while keeping all your meals delicious!
start with salads
Salads aren’t typically my go-to dish—honestly, they’re rarely on my radar—but we all know how many health benefits a well-balanced salad can offer. So, I’ve challenged myself to create salads that steal the spotlight. The secret? Amping up textures and variety. Adding vinegary pickled items, spiced nuts, and even grilled greens turns boring salads into crave-worthy meals. The real game-changer is homemade salad dressing. Store-bought options are often loaded with calories and unpronounceable ingredients. My dressings use just a handful of pantry staples—and they taste incredible.
ditch the deep fryer
I adore fried food, but let’s face it—it’s not exactly healthy. To achieve that crispy vibe without the guilt, I turn to roasting. It drastically cuts down on fat and saves you from dealing with messy vats of oil. My Roasted Broccoli Reubens, for example, deliver all the satisfying flavors of the classic sandwich with a lighter spin. Pair them with roasted tomato bisque for a comforting, wholesome meal. Bonus: cleanup is a breeze if you use parchment paper!
keep those veggies coming
While I’ve dabbled in vegetarianism, I’ve learned to balance plant-based meals with animal proteins. That said, even meat-lovers should try incorporating more veggie-based dishes. Trust me, you won’t miss the meat in my flavorful vegetarian recipes. My advice? Give veggie entrees a try at least once a week. To get you started, I’ve included some of my favorites here.
boost the flavor with spices
Sauces and chutneys are my secret weapons. When I want to cut calories, I rely on spices to infuse dishes with bold flavors. Being married to an Indian has taught me how layering spices creates depth without adding fat. On Sundays, I prep condiments to use throughout the week. My favorite? My mother-in-law’s Spicy Mint and Apple Chutney. I keep a jar in the fridge to add instant pizzazz to any dish!
don’t count out the cocktails
Here’s where things tend to derail for me: cocktail hour. I love unwinding with friends over drinks, but this year, I’m aiming for balance. Instead of skipping cocktails altogether, I’m incorporating non-alcoholic options. Lyre’s and Seedlip are my go-to non-alcoholic alternatives. They’re perfect for crafting mocktails that taste just as good as the real thing—minus the hangover. Use them in martinis, margaritas, and more by swapping the alcohol for its non-alcoholic counterpart.