Making Nachos the Healthy Way
By Brandi Swieter
Though National Nachos Day has come and gone for the year, having arrived in early November, the food is still a favorite among many. People tend to consume nachos on big game days, as a shared appetizer at a restaurant, and even just at home when they feel like a crunchy snack. Nachos may typically be an unhealthy food choice, but there are ways to make the meal healthier and more worthwhile.
Make Homemade Tortilla Chips
Tortilla chips are made from tortillas. Using whole grain choices help to change the chips from a high calorie food to a more nutritious option. Organic coconut wraps are also a possibility. These are gluten-free and fit for a vegan lifestyle. The tortillas need to get cut into wedges and baked. They are typically seasoned with salt, but using other spices and seasonings will help to reduce the sodium intake and add flavor. Roughly eight minutes is all it takes to bake them to perfection.
Use Turkey Instead of Beef
Most nachos are topped with ground beef. This red meat option is not the healthiest choice and should be forgotten. Instead, cooks can use shredded turkey breast or even chicken for a more heart-friendly meal. Ground turkey can also be substituted for ground beef if that same texture is still desired, though a shredded white meat version is best.
Choose Low-fat Cheese
Fake cheese sauces should not be added to the mix. It's better to melt some low-fat cheese over the chips for a healthier version of the dish. Mozzarella is a good option.
Load it With Veggies
If meat and cheese are the main ingredients on a plate of nachos, whoever is eating them is going to consume a fattened meal. It's best to even it out and add more nutrition to the mix by loading the plate with veggies. Peppers, tomatoes, and avocados are some popular choices. Black beans, mushrooms, and olives are other nutritious possibilities.
Use Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream
It may not sound ideal, but hear me out. Yogurt can actually be substituted for sour cream. The trick is to find a low-fat plain flavored yogurt. It can be mixed with taco seasoning, spices, or even just salsa to help create a thick and creamy substitute for sour cream that you don't have to feel bad about adding to the plate.
Enjoy nachos on any occasion by creating a healthier version packed with nutrition. The dish is a favorite among many. People don't have to give it up when on a diet or trying to eat healthier if they make the right substitutions.
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