The holidays are coming and it's time to start thinking about how to balance out those extra high calorie treats with some lighter healthier "swaps."
Have you tried cauliflower rice yet?
It’s one of my go-to healthy low carb/low calorie food swaps instead of rice—and I rely on it for a light, flavorful, and satisfying meal that fits perfectly into my healthy lifestyle. I only like the frozen!!
Recently at my Weight Watchers Workshop, our leader talked about helpful strategies for weight loss and maintenance. Finding swaps for otherwise very fattening foods is a great strategy. You get to indulge without the guilt and weight gain.
Why Food healthier "Swaps" Matter
For me, food swaps have always been a vital part of healthy eating. I love finding creative ways to enjoy the foods I crave—without all the extra fat, sugar, or calories such as this fiesta cauliflower rice recipe below. It's very flavorful with the chopped tomato, fresh lime, and chopped xxxxxxxxxblack olives.
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| Tomatoes, lime, and black olives recipe with cauliflower rice (link to recipe) |
Here are a few of my favorites with links with recipe:
I like to use frozen fruit to make a frozen dessert instead of eating ice cream which I can otherwise never get enough of. It's a huge difference in calories, fat, and my health.
Fresh fruit sorbets instead of high-fat ice cream
Air-fried potato wedges, zucchini strips, or carrot fries instead of deep-fried French fries
Peanut butter powder instead of full-fat peanut butter
I like to sauté in vegetable broth or water instead of oil.
And of course, cauliflower rice tops my list as a substitute for rice.
Why Cauliflower Rice Is a Smart Choice
Cauliflower is a cruciferous vegetable rich in antioxidants and nutrients that support your body’s natural defenses. It’s also a fantastic low-carb, low-calorie substitute for rice, making it ideal for anyone on a Weight Watchers, low-carb, or gluten-free plan.
The secret to perfect cauliflower rice? Cooking it so it’s light, fluffy, and never mushy. I only use frozen and think it cooks tastier than the fresh raw version.
My Easy Cauliflower Rice Recipe
Here’s my simple method for delicious cauliflower rice every time:
Open a bag of frozen cauliflower rice and pour it into a wide, high-rimmed skillet.(must be wide so the "rice' has room to spread out. )
Add ¼ cup of water or vegetable broth.
Heat on high for 1 minute.
Reduce to medium heat and cook for 5 more minutes. Add another 1/4 cup of liquid if needed to prevent burning. Watch it carefully.
For extra flavor and nutrition, I often add:
½ cup chopped red bell peppers
1 cup cubed tofu
Season with turmeric, garlic powder, or fresh minced garlic, salt and cracked pepper or any seasoning of your choice.
If you add bell peppers, cook for about 7 minutes total and include an additional ¼ cup of water or broth halfway through the cooking if needed to prevent burning.
A Fast, One-Pan Meal You’ll Love
The result? A tasty, filling, and healthy side dish or entrée that’s light, fluffy, and bursting with flavor. The best part—it’s a one-pot meal that comes together in minutes!
So next time you’re craving something warm and satisfying, try swapping your regular rice for cauliflower rice. It’s one of the easiest ways to make your meals healthier without sacrificing taste.
Do you have a plan to eat healthier for the holidays? Any low calorie healthy suggestions for Thanksgiving?
My Notes:
1. After cooking the cauliflower rice mixture, place in an oven proof bowl and bake in a preheated 375 degree oven for 5-7 minutes to crisp up the tofu and rice if desired.
2. All recipes on this blog are gluten-free and since 2021 all recipes are vegan.
