Healthy weeknight dinners don’t have to be a workout so just say no to hitting the drive through on the way home from work. Save your splurges for the weekend. Follow these simple tips for easy but healthy weeknight dinners.

Measure your oil
Fat and calories creep into your home cooked meals by thoughtlessly pouring oil into your skillet. If your recipe asks for 2 tablespoons of oil get in the habit of measuring it. You’ll be surprised that 2 tablespoons looks like a lot less than it really is once in your skillet. Also try using a non-stick pan and cut down even more oil or butter.

Cut down on meat
Cutting down on red meat is a great way to save on calories and money. Try lean cuts like pork tenderloin or beef round. Or go with turkey, chicken, or fish. Removing the skin and any visible fat before eating will also save you on fat and calories. If you really want to cut down on calories and fat, try going vegetarian one night a week.

Bulk up on veggies
Adding fresh vegetables to your meals will help fill you up and give you a big nutritional boost. Try quickly cooking them by steaming or sautéing for the most nutritional value.

Low fat dairy
Sour cream, cream cheese, yogurt, and cheeses are all hard to resist. You don’t have to give them up completely, just try to use lower fat products. You can still enjoy their creamy flavor but save on fat and calories. Often it’s hard to tell the difference between full fat and reduced fat.

Big batches
An easy way to get all your vegetables is to make a quick and easy big batch of pureed vegetable soup. The soup will have a great velvety texture and there’s no need to add any cream. Make a big batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy for lunch or a snack for a healthy boost of veggies.
Little changes in your diet can make a real difference.

Try these easy and healthy “Smarter Southern Choices”:
Very Green Soup
Pulled BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Quick Collard Green Saute
Refashioned Turkey Meatloaf