Healthy Food Alternatives When You’re Sick Of Salad
Health and fitness is all the rage right now, but sometimes it can be challenging to find healthy food alternatives that are still able to satisfy your cravings. So here are 10 healthy options to try out when you just can’t handle eating yet another boring salad.
1. Buddha Bowls
Sure, these may look like a salad, but they are way more than that! Buddha bowls have become popular because they’re not just plain ol’ lettuce…These meals are customizable, packed full of greens, veggies, grains, lean proteins, nuts, seeds, and dressing. Make your bowl with whatever your heart desires, the possibilities are endless so you’ll never get bored!
2. Poke
A classic Hawaiin dish that has increased in popularity over the years, Poke is a great alternative for when you’re craving that yum yum roll but don’t want all the extra calories. Usually consisting of raw ahi tuna served over a bed of greens or rice and topped with veggies, this meal is a great way to get your veggies and protein in one swoop. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce or Braggs liquid aminos to decrease your sodium intake and if tuna isn’t your thing, add some edamame for a vegetarian protein source instead!
3. Acai Bowls
I’m sure you’re familiar with the acai trend, and these bowls are popular for a good reason! This frozen treat is packed full of fruit and antioxidants and can help curb your sweet tooth while staying in the health zone at the same time. Usually blended with frozen fruit and non-dairy milk, the pureed acai berry creates a sorbet-like consistency which is usually topped with granola, fresh fruit, and toppings such as coconut or chia seeds. Opt for making these bowls at home so you can have better control of what you’re consuming and you’ll be able to get creative!
4. Smoothies
It doesn’t get any easier than this…Smoothies are a great go to when you’re on the run but don’t feel like scarfing down a pre-packaged salad on your lunch break. Packed full of nutrients, smoothies are also a great way to get your serving of greens and fruits in quickly.
5. Sheet Pan Meals
These meals are quick and easy to assemble while also being a great way to help you get your daily serving of veggies. Throw them on a pan with your choice of protein and seasoning and roast until cooked!
6. Hasselback Potatoes
Let’s get real, sometimes all we truly want for dinner is some fries. So make your own by cooking up some potatoes Hasselback style. Cut thin lines across, and bake them, drizzle with olive oil to help crispen them up and season to your liking. These will be a healthier alternative than the fries from the drive-thru. Pair them with some veggies or throw one on top of a home-made salad to help spice up your regular routine.
7. Non-Dairy Mac & Cheese
Sure, we all love the cheesy goodness that comes with classic mac and cheese, but all that cheese, milk and cream can wreak havoc on your health. So get the most out of this comfort food with a healthier non-dairy alternative instead! The “cheese” sauce can be made of pureed veggies which helps get your daily serving in, while also fulfilling your craving.
8. Loaded Veggie Burger
Red meat isn’t the best choice when you’re trying to prioritize your health, but sometimes we’re in the mood for a burger. Try swapping the regular burger you’d usually go for with a protein-packed veggie burger instead! You can load it up with your favorite toppings, and if you’re trying to be low-carb you can throw your burger in a lettuce wrap instead of a bun, and it’ll taste just as good!
9. Eggplant Pizza
Another great low-carb alternative for a classic staple. Make your own pizza but use eggplant rounds instead of dough for an easy way to enjoy pizza and your veggies at the same time. This meal is excellent and easily customizable depending on what toppings you like, so have fun with it, and I promise you won’t get bored!
10. Lettuce Cups
Simple, fresh, and packed full of whatever you’d like, lettuce cups are a great go to when you want to eat something hand-held but are trying to lay off the bread. Try these with your favorite taco filling instead of using tortilla shells, and you’ll be just as satisfied.
