Change it Up!
Healthy twists for your favorite family recipes
We all want the best for our families, especially when it comes to food. We try to keep the meals nutritious, but often, we end up using recipes or ingredients that are convenient rather than healthy. For example, butter may seem like an easy option, but compared to olive oil, it has far less nutritional value.
But here’s the good news! Simple ingredient swaps can make your favorite recipes healthier without compromising on taste.
Smart Swaps for Healthier Meals
Here are some healthy alternatives that you can include in your recipes that are both healthy and affordable.
Original Item
Healthier Choice
Reduced Sodium
1/3 cup Canned Beans
1 cup Chicken Broth
1/3 cup No-Salt-Added Canned Beans
1 cup Unsalted Chicken Broth
Increased Fiber
1/3 cup White Rice
1 cup Apple Juice
1/3 cup Brown Rice
1 Whole Apple
Healthier Fats
1 Tbsp Cream Cheese
1 Tbsp Mayonnaise
1 Tbsp Peanut Butter
1 Tbsp Avocado
Reduced Calories
1 cup Whole Milk
1 lb 80/20 Ground Beef
1 cup 1% Low-Fat Milk
1 lb 90/10 Ground Beef
Added Flavor
1 tsp Salt
1/2 tsp Sugar
1 tsp Salt-Free Italian Seasoning
1/2 tsp Cinnamon
Increased Vitamins
1/2 cup Butter (Baking)
2 Scrambled Eggs
1/2 Cup Applesauce or Mashed Banana
1 Omelet with Spinach & Bell Pepper
What Makes Our Recipes Healthier
Eating healthy doesn’t mean giving up your favorite meals. Our recipes use simple ingredient swaps, like swapping white rice for brown rice or using avocado instead of cream cheese, to add more nutrients to your meals without changing the flavors. These small changes make everyday meals better for you and your family without extra effort or complicated ingredients.
Easy Recipes with Healthier Swaps
These Choose Homemade recipes show how easy it is to use healthy alternatives, helping you make delicious meals for your family.
Green Chile Migas
This recipe combines eggs, black beans, and cheddar cheese for a low-sodium dish that’s perfect for a quick, family-friendly meal.
Easy Gourmet Ramen
This Easy Gourmet Ramen combines vegetables, chicken broth, and ramen noodles for a quick, low-sodium meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Avocado Tuna Salad
This salad uses avocado, Greek yogurt, and tuna for a quick, healthy meal. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a flavorful twist on a classic.
Sunshine Hummus Pasta
Sunshine Hummus Pasta is a quick, healthy dish with whole-wheat pasta, hummus, and veggies. Ready in under 30 minutes!
Chicken Broccoli Shells & Cheese
Chicken Broccoli Shells & Cheese is a creamy, cheesy dish with chicken and broccoli, ready in under 30 minutes for a quick meal.
Sweet Potato & Squash Taquitos
These taquitos are made with sweet potatoes, butternut squash, and pinto beans. A quick and low-sodium snack, ready in under 30 minutes.
Oatmeal Pumpkin Bites
These quick, healthy snacks are made with oats, honey, and pumpkin puree. Ready in under 30 minutes, they’re perfect for on-the-go!
Peanut Butter Banana Bread
This Peanut Butter Banana Bread is a moist, healthier take on a classic treat. It’s a quick and delicious option for any time of day.
Small changes can make a big difference when it comes to eating healthier, and these simple swaps are a great way to start. Try these recipes and see how simple it is to enjoy meals that are both delicious and healthy.
Check out more delicious recipes on our Choose Homemade page!