ThereÕs something irresistible about takeout foods. TheyÕre easy, theyÕre delicious, but theyÕre often loaded with carbs, oil, and sugar. Many people grab a takeout menu in lieu of cooking, but did you know you can make these takeout indulgences in your own kitchen? These easy “takeout” recipes are some healthy alternatives that still allow you to get your takeout fix.
1. Chicken Fried Rice
This meal has a little bit of prep involved, but is easy to make and can be made in large quantities to feed any sized group. Substitute your own favorite vegetables, meats, or even tofu into the mix.
Ingredients:
2 cups white or brown rice
Cooking Oil
1 white or yellow onion, chopped
1 cup bean sprouts
1 cup shredded carrots
_ lb boneless chicken breast, cut into cubes
Low Sodium Soy Sauce
Cook the rice as directed. In a wok or large skillet, toss the veggies with a little oil and soy sauce over low-medium heat until desired done-ness. Set the veggies aside and cook the chicken, again adding a little oil and soy sauce, until the chicken is cooked through. Add the rice and vegetables to the pan and toss everything together over low heat, adding a little more soy sauce for flavor.
Bonus: This makes a great packed lunch your kids will love! Check out our other back to school lunch ideas.
2. Oven-Baked Fries
French fries are one of those junk foods that can be difficult to give up when trying to eat healthier. Though theyÕll never be ÒgoodÓ for you, this recipe cuts out a lot of the salt and hydrogenated oils that makes them such a guilty pleasure.
Ingredients:
_ lb yellow or red-skinned potatoes
1-2 tbsp olive oil
Sea salt & pepper
1 tbsp lemon juice
Preheat your oven to 375¡F. Rinse your potatoes and cut them into wedges, then place the wedges in a large bowl. Cover the wedges with water and allow them to soak for up to 20 minutes. This will remove some of the starch and make your fries crispy. Drain the water, then toss the wedges with the oil, sea salt, pepper, and lemon juice until everything is evenly coated. Spread the wedges on a lined baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 30-40 minutes, turning after the first 15.
3. Cauliflower ÒHot WingsÓ
This unusual-looking vegetable offers plenty of vitamin C, and will easily take on whatever flavors you throw at it. I also really love hot wings, but they can get pricey and probably arenÕt the best thing for you. These cauliflower Òhot wingsÓ are a great substitute that will be crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Ingredients:
1 large cauliflower
1/3 cup hot sauce
Preheat your oven to 400¡F. Cut the cauliflower into florets, and then toss them in a large bowl with the hot sauce until they are coated. Spread the sauced-up florets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 30 minutes, or until crispy and fork-tender. Serve hot!
If you donÕt feel like cooking, stop by Tidal Creek for our daily hot bar specials! Check out the menu calendar on our website to see what’s cooking today.
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