One of my favorite things to do in the kitchen is to recreate comfort foods by healthifying them especially go-to meals from around the world! With a few flexible twists you can enjoy both the warmth and familiarity that your favorite foods from each culture bring, while still allowing you to fit into your favorite jeans and feel confident, vibrant and energized.
Chinese Stir Fry
In this simple but satisfying twist on the classic Chinese dish, I have removed the cornstarch and rely on the caramelized onions, the moist chicken thighs and the stock to add great flavor. This is a go-to dish whenever we have leftover chicken in the fridge, although you could easily substitute cubed beef or organic tofu. Serve with steamed rice, soba noodles or cauliflower rice. When we make this at home there are never leftovers – testament to this dish’s success.
Japanese Sushi
These seared rice-less sushi rolls are a great option for low-carb comfort sushi! Most sushi is loaded with carbs but in this recipe, we skip out on the rice without missing out on any flavors! Gather your friends and turn this into a sushi-making party with various veggies, salmon and seaweed sheets!
Italian Pasta
This dish is one of my favorites household favorites, especially as a last-minute dinner! This Italian pasta dish can be turned into a healthified version of the comfort dish by using gluten-free pasta. You can also jazz up the marinara sauce and really make the most out of a simple meal to cure your Italian cravings!
American Fried Chicken Sandwich
Ever get hit with a craving for crunchy savory fried chicken? Next time, make this better-for-you and satisfying dish instead. With only five ingredients and about five minutes of prep time, this potato-chip-crusted chicken will become your new favorite gluten-free splurge meal! The chips offer a nice savory crunch that replaces the fried chicken coating yet still allows you to enjoy it guilt-free.
Mexican Taco Salad
Tacos used to be off-limits for me because of their highly processed bases and sauces. That is, until now. The dish is loaded with nutritious crunchy bell peppers, avocado, onion, chili peppers, cilantro and fresh summer corn. All the ingredients blended together for a sensational and spicy Mexican meal! All of these go on top of romaine lettuce which is a great way to sneak in more leafy greens! Ay Caramba!
Indian Curry
This chickpea curry is so flavorful, yet so simple to prepare. All the spices really blend together for an immensely delicious Indian meal. You can serve with steamed quinoa, rice, or cauliflower rice. It’s only a few minutes of prep and a press of a button on the slow cooker. The next thing you know, the smell of curry is wafting through the kitchen!
