
21 healthy swaps to make
Make your meals healthier, lighter and more nutritious (but just as delicious!) with these clever swaps, including homemade granola, brown rice stir fry and more
Looking for more healthy recipes? We have plenty of ideas for delicious and nutritious meals. Try our recipes below, then check out our healthy dinner ideas and our anti-inflammatory recipes. Now discover 10 gut health foods and how to eat 30 plants a week.
We all have a favourite meal, but sometimes we want them to be a little healthier, whether that is to reduce calories, keep an eye on saturated fats or limit certain carbs. With some easy swaps you can still indulge in your favourites while getting additional health benefits such as more fibre and vegetables, as as well as extra vitamins and minerals.
We've also got plenty more healthy recipes to inspire you, including these healthy mince recipes, healthy prawn recipes, healthy fish recipes and healthy salmon recipes. For summer inspiration, check out our healthy summer recipes.
Now discover Mediterranean foods for better health and foods to help fight seasonal allergies and hay fever.
Healthy swaps to try
Mediterranean frittata
If you usually opt for a fry up, this healthy brunch frittata contains minimal carbs but plenty of protein thanks to the eggs and chicken sausage. Plus, the salty feta works well with spinach and tomatoes.
Healthy fishcakes
These lighter fishcakes are high in protein and full of aromatic flavours like ginger. They make for a satisfying yet healthy dinner.
Crispy chickpeas on green toast
Instead of ultra-processed, shop-bought beans on toast, opt for peas blitzed with tahini and herbs topped with crispy chickpeas. You'll get a double protein hit and feel full all day long.
Healthy granola
Instead of the super sugary, shop-bought variety, start every day the right with this easy, healthy granola. Serve with milk or yogurt, and plenty of fresh fruit, for an energising breakfast.
Healthy muffins
You don't have to forget the treats, just because you're on a mission to eat well. These vegan crumble muffins are made with wholemeal flour, oats, coconut, banana and spices. They are guaranteed to give you a lift.
Grilled chicken wraps
Forget the sad meal deal and prep this lighter chicken wrap ahead, so you're guaranteed a healthy lunch. It's flavoured with a Sicilian mint and nut pesto.
Baked halibut with fennel, lemon and walnut pangrattato
Instead of fish fingers, make this healthy, nourishing halibut traybake. It has a crunchy, golden topping made from breadcrumbs that's flavoured with zingy lemon and parsley.
Cauliflower mash
Serve this low-carb alternative to mashed potato alongside your favourite meat and veggie mains.
Tofu stir-fry
Mix things up and opt for a veggie stir-fry with crispy tofu instead of meat. It's just as delicious, filling and high in protein too.
Healthy fried rice
Replace calorific fried rice from your local takeaway to this easy, healthy homemade version that uses brown rice, so you'll benefit from a slow release of energy. It combines paneer with ginger, garlic, chilli and curry powder.
Vegan kale caesar salad with aubergine 'bacon'
Swap bacon for crunchy, paprika-smoked aubergine slices in our super tasty vegan riff on a classic caesar salad.
Five-bean chilli
Replace the meat with a high-fibre bean chilli made with mostly storecupboard ingredients. Serve with brown rice, avocado and dairy-free yogurt for an energising meal that's packed with plant goodness.
Sweet potato linguine with vegan puy lentil ragù
Swap linguine for bright and colourful sweet potato noodles. Topped with a warming, vegan, bolognese-style ragù, this gluten-free main is perfect all year round.
Californian tofu scramble
Swap eggs for deliciously smoked tofu in this filling vegan recipe that's packed with flavour from the punchy chilli and pan-fried courgette – it's ideal for lazy weekend brunching.
Cauliflower rice with aubergine ragout
Swap traditional rice for this brilliant cauliflower version that's easy to make, quick to cook and filling – pair it with aubergine ragout for a perfect, veggie-heavy supper.
Courgetti with pesto and balsamic tomatoes
Swap spaghetti for 'courgetti' for a lighter, no carb meal that's still tasty and satisfying.
Pea, courgette and artichoke barley risotto
Swap risotto rice for nutty barley and create a light, summery dish filled to the brim with green veggies like peas, courgettes and artichokes.
Spicy lentil burgers
Instead of minced meat, make burger patties using spicy lentils for the ultimate plant-based summer BBQ.
Tofu steak with beetroot noodles and dukkah
Swap egg noodles for beetroot to bring vibrancy, colour and texture to your plate. Topped with grilled tofu and a beautifully spiced and nutty dukkah, this is a great vegetarian meal for one, ready in half an hour.
Chicken lettuce wraps
Swap white floury wraps for fresh crisp lettuce and allow all the flavours inspired by Asia to shine in this simple summer favourite. It's a perfect lunch for hot lazy days.
Kale crisps
Swap potato for kale and get ready to bulk bake this fantastically healthy, low-fat snack – a great alternative to crisps. Sprinkle with whatever spices you fancy – celery salt or a mild chilli powder would both work well.
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