Is one of your New Year’s resolutions to eat healthier this year? Instead of trying to cut anything out cold turkey, or doing a crash diet, try taking things slow. Making one healthy choice at a time and learning to build it into your daily habits will set you up much better for the long run.
And healthy eating doesn’t have to be bland and boring either! Check out these easy, nutritious, and delicious recipes below to set yourself up for success as you kick off your new goals.
Greek Yogurt Parfait
Greek yogurt has a higher protein content than other yogurts–and less sugar as well. If you’re also trying to cut down on your dietary fats, you can opt for the 2% or fat-free versions.
Top with whatever toppings you like including a wide variety of fruits for extra fiber and vitamin/mineral content, nuts and seeds for healthy fats, or even granola if you need a little extra carb boost.
Try this one from Trifecta Nutrition.
Burrito Bowls
Quick and easy “bowl” type meals are the best for on-the-go, or packed lunches! You can easily make your own style of meal with a grain or veggie base, and add extra lean protein.
If you’re a fan of Mexican flavor, you’ll love burrito bowls with brown rice, beans, veggies, and either lean ground turkey or chicken breast. Top with salsa, chile, or fresh cilantro for extra spice and flavor but without any of the extra calories.
Egg Muffins
If you’re out the door in the mornings in the flash, you don’t want to skip breakfast. Chances are you’ll be so hungry in a few hours you’ll overeat more than you would if you had eaten breakfast in the first place.
If “sweet” breakfasts aren’t really your thing, try these low-carb egg muffins. Make them on a Sunday and they’ll last you for the entire week! You can also add whatever mix-ins you like including ham, cheese, or extra veggies.
Try these from Well Plated by Erin.
Overnight Oats
Also on the go but prefer a sweet breakfast? Overnight oats are your answer. Make these the night before and all you need to do is grab it in the morning with a spoon.
The oats soak up the liquid overnight making them easier to digest (and tastier). Not cooking the oats also helps retain some of its nutritional value. You can try out a variety of flavors with these such as mixed berry, strawberry and banana, tropical, peanut butter and chocolate, cinnamon, or more!
Try these variations from Downshiftology.
Buddha Bowls
If you haven’t heard of Buddha Bowls before, they’re a popular bowl-type meal that consists of tons of veggies and good-for-you ingredients. They’re usually vegetarian, but you can always add your own lean proteins if you like.
Try this one out from vegan Minimalist Baker.
Chicken Fajitas
We all know chicken and vegetables are the ultimate “diet” food. But it doesn’t always have to be steamed veggies and bland chicken. Herbs and spices are a great way to add flavor without extra calories.
A perfect example? Fajita veggies made with fresh bell peppers and onions, and lean chicken breast for a good dose of protein.
Try this one out from Primavera Kitchen.
Sheet Pan Chicken and Veggies
Here’s another chicken and veggie meal prep dinner for you if Mexican flavor isn’t your favorite. Sheet pan dinners allow you to arrange all of your ingredients on one baking tray, pop it in the oven, bake, and that’s it! The clean up is super easy and the steps aren’t complicated at all.
