Select Seasonings
When it comes to seasonings and spices, choose brands that are free or low in sodium and additional calories, like Dan-O’s Seasonings or The New Primal. Get creative and add a burst of flavor with fresh herbs and spices from your backyard garden, too. A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime can give your dish just what it needs. Try some chopped herbs fresh from the farmers market like cilantro and mint. If you are looking to give your dinner a Mexican flare, opt for a bold combination of cumin, garlic, onion, oregano, and Spanish paprika. Feeling like Italian instead? Combine fresh basil, marjoram, oregano, rosemary, sage, and thyme. Now that’s amore!
Swap Out Starches
Swap out simple starches like pasta, white potatoes, and white rice for more complex carbohydrates like sweet potatoes, or substitute vegetables that mimic your favorite starches. Think of things like riced cauliflower or zucchini. Try beet or butternut squash noodles. If you do not feel like making these veggie substitutes yourself, these items can usually be found in your grocer’s fresh produce section. Easy peasy!