Throughout the pandemic it might have been, or currently is, a challenge to motivate yourself to cook up something healthy. Energy is lagging and life hasn't felt 'normal' in quite some time.
If you've been relying on take out foods or heavily processed options for something quick and easy, you're not alone.
But the truth is, cooking during the pandemic doesn't have to be a daunting experience. Take advantage of this time and try something new in the kitchen. Below are 8 classic comfort foods recipes made a little healthier.
Pulled pork sliders
These instant pot pulled pork sliders with fennel slaw are super tasty.
A pulled pork sandwich is ultimate sandwich goals. And if you think about it, making a 'mini' version on a slider bun makes the portion size smaller, so you get the same goodness but in a smaller size. Plus, sliders are very trendy at the moment.
The tangy homemade sauce and the fresh ingredients give this classic southern comfort food a healthier spin.
Blueberry almond pancakes
Breakfast food is comfort food too!
This blueberry almond pancake recipe is a healthier breakfast option, but still every bit as delicious as traditional pancakes.
With ingredients like almond flour, coconut flour and chia seeds, these pancakes feel a little lighter going down. The fresh blueberries and real maple syrup add a ton of delicious flavour.
Italian wedding soup
Soup is definitely a comfort food classic.
This Italian wedding soup recipe is a healthier, but every bit as delicious version of the traditional soup.
Made with orzo pasta, lean ground turkey meatballs and fresh vegetables, this recipe will have your mouth watering and keep you warm during the upcoming winter months.
Chicken enchiladas
Mexican food is the ultimate comfort food. Cheesy and delicious, you don't have to feel guilty about wiping up these chicken enchiladas.
With boneless, skinless chicken breasts, lots of colourful veggies, beans for added protein and whole grain tortillas, these enchiladas are bursting with flavour without the guilt that can come with indulging.
Vegan buffalo 'chicken' sandwich
Vegan comfort food at its finest.
These buffalo 'chicken' sandwiches are the perfect option if you're vegan, vegetarian or are just simply cutting back on your meat consumption. They have the spicy kick of a traditional buffalo sandwich but use vegan buns, dressing and 'chicken strips.'
Give the recipe a try and let us know what you think of our meatless option!
BBQ chicken pizza
Mozzarella cheese, barbecue sauce, pickled jalapenos rings and barbecue chicken... just a few ingredients you'll find in this comforting bbq chicken pizza recipe.
Pizza screams comfort food, and this is a simple option to make when you're craving some good Italian take out. By the way, it only takes 30 minutes total to put together and cook.
Linguine marinara
Speaking of Italian food, we couldn't put this list of comfort foods together without including pasta.
This classic seafood pasta, linguine marinara, will satiate all your cravings. Personalize it with your favourite veggie add-ins, or swap in your preferred noodles for lower carb options.
Shepherd's pie
A classic meat and potatoes dish. There's nothing more comforting in the dead of winter than serving up some shepherd's pie.
To make this recipe lighter, we've incorporated cauliflower into the mashed potatoes and snuck in some garlic butter as well. It's super tasty, loaded with vegetables and will warm your insides.