As the temperatures begin to dip and the pile of homework on your desk seems taller than ever, it’s only natural to begin craving the comforts of home. Fuzzy slippers, movie nights and mom’s home cooking have never sounded more tantalizing, especially with midterms on the horizon.
Luckily, classy co-eds everywhere can rejoice and find peace with these recipes that are not only good for your soul, but for your waistline, too. These dishes have all been given a health makeover. Indulge in your favorite comfort foods the fabulous, guilt-free way this fall.
Macaroni & Cheese
Macaroni & cheese is a meal nobody outgrows. Comforting on a dull and gloomy day, EatingWell’s baked macaroni & cheese recipe uses low-fat cottage cheese and also includes spinach for an added vegetable boost. Use whole wheat pasta for an extra dose of fiber.
Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup isn’t reserved for the days when you’re feeling under the weather. This super easy recipe from Cooking Light is loaded with protein and veggies, not to mention it’s bursting with flavor. Ready in just 20 minutes, this is the perfect comfort food for a craving that hits when you least expect it.
Tip: Looking for more chicken recipes? Try CL’s 10 Fresh Way’s to Cook with Rotisserie Chicken now!
Baked Potato
EatingWell’s baked potato is bursting with beef and broccoli. The recipe uses reduced-fat sour cream to cut back on calories. Get your fill of protein and veggies while treating yourself to this traditional dish.
Chili
Perfect on chilly fall days, this recipe from Prevention uses heart-healthy ingredients such as beans, tomatoes and corn to keep your sodium levels in check.
Pancakes
A Sunday morning staple, pancakes no longer have to come with a side order of guilt. The next time you’re in the mood for this buttery breakfast, whip up this creation courtesy of Hungry Girl, inspired by IHOP’s New York Cheesecake Pancakes.
Don’t forget to check out the College Lifestyles nutrition page for more ways to stay happy and healthy this semester!
Will you be trying any of these recipes?
What are your favorite comfort foods?
Casey Galasso is junior at Marist College. Follow her on Twitter at @omggcasey. To stay tuned to more articles for classy co-eds, be sure to follow College Lifestyles on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.
