by CD Gozzi

Created on: June 29, 2007

The secret to good cooking is to make something that appeals to the taste buds. Low fat cooking does not need to be bland and boring but instead it can be vibrant and exciting. First, get rid of all your processed foods. You want to rid your pantry and refrigerator of hydrogenated oils, monodiglycerides and high fructose corn syrup. All these manufactured ingredients are not good for your body. They mask the true nutrients your body needs to function properly and healthfully. Toss out any hydrogenated oils in the form of margarine and get rid of butter. Trade your whole milk to % -2%. Have some Ben and Jerry's Chunky Monkey in the freezer? You can keep that provided you limit the portion size you have. (It is okay in small quantities since it is made with natural ingredients!). Do you love your Frosted Flakes for breakfast? Perhaps it is time to invest in some old fashioned rolled oats instead. One trick I use is, if I cannot identify all the ingredients by just looking at something, then I do not eat it. For example, what are all the ingredients that make up Frosted Flakes? It is much simpler to look at the oats and know there are no additives or artificial ingredients.

Make sure you have plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables in a variety of colors. Have a bottle of extra virgin olive oil or coconut oil on hand. These have the "good fats" our bodies need and make a wonderful addition to the recipes you will create. Fill your spice rack with all types of spices paprika, tarragon, rosemary, garlic, basil, ginger, turmeric etc.

Once you are in the meat section of the store, select lean cuts of pork, fish, chicken and beef. Yes, beef is okay provided you limit your overall consumption and stay with the leaner cuts such as strip steak or sirloin. With all meats, you will want to cut off all visible fat before cooking. White meat poultry has less fat than the darker portions, and you will want to remove the skin before cooking. Salmon is a wonderful choice for seafood as it is high in omega-3 fatty acids. All fish is a good low fat choice for your menu provided you do not fry it or drown it in butter while cooking.

When it comes time to cook your meal, use broth, wine or juice to enhance the natural flavors of your food. Use a variety of spices so as to make meals more exciting and flavorful. Here are some recommendations for low fat, tasty meals:

Breakfast
cup old fashioned rolled oats; cooked per package directions
cup fat free organic strawberry yogurt
3 fresh strawberries

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