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Nov 14, 2024

New Better For You holiday recipes and healthier ingredient swaps without sacrificing flavor



By: Mary Alice Cain, Registered Dietician and Nutritionist


Start Saving with DG Digital Coupons.Lean in a little closer: DG has the secrets on how you can save time, money AND focus on health this holiday season. Too good to be true? We think not!

We’re all about delicious recipes during the holidays, but how do you savor the festive flavors without feeling as stuffed as these Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes? Simple swaps hold the key:

  • Try topping your next casserole with homemade breadcrumbs using 100% whole wheat bread - just grind in a food processor and toast in a 300 degree oven for about 10 minutes for a more fiber-filled option.
  • Consider a leaner protein - cutting down on the saturated fat - for your holiday main this year. Swap in salmon or poultry for the beef or pork.
  • And that holiday dessert? Replace some of the oil in baked goods with unsweetened apple sauce to dial back the calories while keeping your sweets moist and tasty.
  • Speaking of lightened-up sweets, no one has to know you used baby food in your dessert treats.

Turn to these food and cooking techniques for a healthful approach without skimping on flavor:

  • Aim to add protein and fiber to your meals to help your belly feel satisfied, not weighed down. Think nuts, whole grains, fruits and veggies.
  • Drain and rinse your canned beans and vegetables to remove any excess sodium.
  • Instead of turning to butter and salt for flavor, try a basic mirepoix of onions, celery and carrots sauteed in a little olive oil as the base to your next dish.
  • Focus less on restricting your favorite dishes and more on enjoying a little bit of everything. Build a “sampler plate” from your favorites - a small tasting of all the classics!

Get resourceful! Try these food hacks as another way to save:

  • Stretch ground beef further by adding chopped mushrooms. The result is mouthwatering (and makes even more meatballs!).
  • Farm in your own kitchen by regrowing celery, garlic and onions from scraps. Just submerge the roots in a cup of water and place in a sunny windowsill before replanting.
  • Repurpose leftover ingredients. Extra apples on hand while making this Baked Apple Pecan Chicken (less than $3/serving!)? Make apple chips or dip in fondue! Extra nuts from this Candied Nuts recipe? Grind them in a food processor for homemade nut butter.
  • Our Green Beans with Crunchy Ramen Topping recipe is a winner (less than $2/serving!). BUT, if you’re partial to the classic Green Bean Casserole, DG is offering a bundle deal of buy both a Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup plus a French’s Fried Onions, get a can of Clover Valley Green Beans FREE through Thanksgiving.

Most importantly, celebrate good food with loved ones this season. You deserve it!

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Check out DG's Better For You recipes for healthier seasonal dishes:

Baked Apple Chicken Baked Sweet Potatoes Candied Nuts Green Beans with Crunchy Ramen Topping