ALT-2 Healthy Menu Ideas for Easter Dinner
Easter dinner for many families consists of ham, mashed potatoes, hot rolls or bread, and various side dishes and desserts. While most of us aren’t all that concerned with proper nutrition or calories on this special day, there are some people that need to maintain a healthy diet , holiday or not. Those who must, under doctor’s orders refrain from sodium, and other additives, could benefit from a healthier fare.If ham isn’t in your normal diet, or you simply don’t like it, there is no rule that says you can’t have turkey or chicken, of even a turkey ham for that matter. Ham is not usually on the menu of those who cannot have excess salt, or those who are on a low cholesterol diet, so substituting may be necessary. Unless you are a vegetarian, meat is usually the main course, and it should be your choice.Potatoes may not be the low-carb dieters best choice, but by and large, they are good for you in moderation. It’s the butter, heavy cream, and extra salt that we put in them that does the most harm. These are easily substituted by using skim milk for the mashed potatoes, a butter substitute, and no salt. Anyone who wants to add salt can, but it doesn’t need to be already in the dish of potatoes. Adding other vegetables to the Easter dinner is expected. These can be steamed for increased nutrition and taste, or, you can arrange a relish plate of raw vegetables and some low fat dip. Tossed salads are also a good side dish, and they go good with anything.If you are going to be making bread or rolls for dinner, choose whole wheat. These whole grains are a healthy alternative to plain white bread, and tasty. Serve with a low calorie spread and honey.Desserts do not have to be elaborate or calorie laden. They can be as simple as a low fat yogurt parfait with fresh fruit, or a bowl of fresh fruit by itself. Puddings are a great treat with low fat topping, or a piece of angel food cake topped with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or peaches.In the long run, almost any meal, for any event, can be made into a wholesome and nutritious meal, simply by making some substitutions. Choosing low fat, low cholesterol and low sodium products is a good start, and adding fresh fruits and vegetables are a nutritional plus.
