Healthy eating doesnât mean bland eating. At PC Food Pantry, weâre here to help you create delicious meals using pantry staplesâwhile keeping things low in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats.
Hereâs how you can make your meals healthier without sacrificing taste.
đ§ 1. Use Herbs and Spices Instead of Salt
Salt adds flavorâbut too much can raise blood pressure. Here are some tasty swaps:
- Garlic powder or onion powder for savory dishes
- Cumin or chili powder for beans and rice
- Italian seasoning for pasta and tomato dishes
- Paprika or black pepper for veggies and meats
Try this:
Instead of salting canned green beans, toss them with a bit of garlic powder and olive oil!
đŻ 2. Cut Down on Sugar with Natural Sweetness
Too much sugar can lead to energy crashes, weight gain, and dental issues. Try:
- Fruit (fresh, canned in juice, or frozen) as a sweetener
- Cinnamon to bring out natural sweetness
- Unsweetened applesauce in baking instead of sugar
Example:
Sprinkle cinnamon on oatmeal or toast instead of sugar.
đ§ 3. Swap Unhealthy Fats for Better Options
Skip the heavy butter or lard and try:
- Olive oil for sautĂŠing or roasting
- Avocado (if available) for a creamy texture
- Non-stick pans to reduce the need for oil
If youâre using canned meats, drain the fat before cooking to lighten the dish.
đ˛ 4. Roast or Bake Instead of Frying
Frying adds a lot of fat. Instead, try:
- Roasting potatoes, carrots, or other veggies with a bit of oil and seasoning
- Baking chicken, fish, or even eggs
Itâs just as tastyâand often even easier.
đ˝ď¸ 5. Taste First, Then Season
Itâs a small tip that goes a long way: Donât add salt or sugar until after you taste.
You may find it doesnât need as much as you thought!
đ Big Flavor, Better Health
By making a few small changes, you can boost the health of your meals without giving up the flavors your family loves.
At PC Food Pantry, we believe good food should nourish the body and the soulâand weâre here to help you do both.
