Trim holiday calories with small plates

The holidays are a joyous time of year, full of family, friends, and delicious food; however, all of the indulgences can lead to unwanted weight gain. Many people struggle with the temptation to overeat during the holidays. However, there is a simple solution that can help you enjoy your favorite holiday dishes while still maintaining a healthy weight – using small plates.

Using small plates has been found to be an effective way of controlling portion sizes and reducing calorie intake. It’s a strategy that can be used throughout the year but is particularly beneficial during the holiday season when rich, high-calorie foods are ubiquitous. In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore how small plates can help you trim holiday calories, so you can feel confident and healthy throughout the holiday season.

Benefits of small plates:

Using small plates is a simple but powerful strategy for reducing calorie intake. Here are some of the benefits of using small plates:

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Controlling portion sizes:

Using small plates makes it difficult to overeat. If you fill a large plate with food, you’re more likely to eat more than you need. However, if you fill a small plate with food, you’re more likely to eat an appropriate portion size.

Reducing calorie intake:

Using small plates can help you reduce your calorie intake without feeling deprived. Studies have shown that people who use smaller plates eat less food and consume fewer calories than those who use larger plates.

Improving digestive health:

Eating smaller portions can improve your digestive health. Overeating can lead to digestive issues like bloating, gas, and discomfort. By using small plates, you can eat smaller portions, which can improve your digestive health.

Cultivating mindfulness:

Using small plates cultivates mindfulness. When you use a small plate, you’re more likely to pay attention to what you’re eating and savor the flavors. This can help you feel more satisfied and less likely to overeat.

Strategies for using small plates:

Using small plates is a simple but effective strategy for reducing calorie intake. Here are some tips for using small plates during the holiday season:

1. Choose a smaller plate size:

   When selecting plates for holiday meals, choose a smaller plate size. This will naturally reduce the portion size and make it more difficult to overeat.

2. Fill half of the plate with vegetables:

   Fill half of your plate with vegetables. Vegetables are low in calories and high in nutrients, so they can help you feel full and satisfied without consuming too many calories.

3. Use a small dessert plate:

   When it comes to desserts, use a small dessert plate. This will help you enjoy your favorite treats without overindulging.

4. Serve food family-style:

   When serving food, avoid serving large dishes at the table. Instead, serve food family-style in smaller bowls. This will make it easier to control portion sizes and reduce the temptation to overeat.

5. Don’t go back for seconds:

   When using small plates, it’s essential to resist the temptation to go back for seconds. If you’re still hungry, wait a few minutes and see if you’re still hungry before going back for more.

Examples of holiday recipes using small plates:

Using small plates doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or indulgence. Here are some delicious holiday recipes that can be served on small plates:

1. Roasted Brussels sprouts:

   Ingredients:

   • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
   • 2 tbsp olive oil
   • 1 tsp salt
   • 1/4 tsp black pepper
   • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

   Directions:

   1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
   2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
   3. Spread Brussels sprouts out on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and golden.
   4. Remove from oven and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
   5. Serve on small plates as a side dish.

2. Fig and goat cheese appetizer:

   Ingredients:

   • 6 fresh figs, halved
   • 2 oz goat cheese
   • 1 tbsp honey
   • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
   • Salt and pepper to taste

   Directions:

   1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
   2. Arrange figs on a baking sheet, cut side up.
   3. Top each fig half with a small dollop of goat cheese.
   4. Drizzle honey and balsamic vinegar over fig halves.
   5. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
   6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until cheese is slightly melted.
   7. Serve on small plates as an appetizer.

3. Mini sweet potato pies:

   Ingredients:

   • 1 lb sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
   • 1/4 cup brown sugar
   • 1/4 cup milk
   • 2 tbsp butter
   • 1 tsp cinnamon
   • 1/2 tsp nutmeg
   • 12 mini pie shells
   • Whipped cream (optional)

   Directions:

   1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
   2. In a pot, boil diced sweet potatoes until tender, about 20 minutes.
   3. Drain sweet potatoes and add brown sugar, milk, butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
   4. Use a hand mixer to blend until smooth.
   5. Spoon sweet potato mixture into mini pie shells.
   6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
   7. Let cool and top with whipped cream if desired.
   8. Serve on small plates as a dessert.

Conclusion:

Using small plates is a simple but effective strategy for reducing calorie intake during the holiday season. It’s a strategy that can help you feel confident and healthy, even as you enjoy your favorite holiday dishes. By using small plates, you can control portion sizes, reduce calorie intake, improve digestive health, and cultivate mindfulness. So, if you want to trim holiday calories, try using small plates this holiday season and enjoy all of the indulgences without any of the guilt.