• Serve buffet style or family style where guests can choose the amount and type of food they would like.
• Always have some non-alcoholic and some sugar free beverages available along with the wine or cocktails offered before or during dinner.
• Intensify flavour by using herbs and spices and go light on the salt. If people prefer more, they can add it at the table.
• Cook with less fat or choose healthier varieties. Use cooking spray in a non-stick pan or sauté using olive or canola oil instead of butter or solid margarine. Low sodium chicken broth can be used to sauté instead of oil and can be used in mashed potatoes and purees instead of butter and cream.
• Grill, bake or broil meats. These techniques allow for excess fat to drip off of the meat during cooking.
• Serve at least 2 vegetable options at dinner. People watching their weight or those with other medical concerns may prefer to eat more vegetables and less of the meat or alternative.
• Serve vegetables without butter or sauces. If you are serving with a sauce, allow the guest to add the amount they prefer.
• Go easy on the starchy side dishes. One option is more than enough. If serving buns or bread, try to make them high fibre, whole grain varieties.
• Serve coffee and tea with the option of artificial sweeteners and a lower fat milk. Often people are satisfied with 2% or whole milk as opposed to cream.
• Try to serve a lighter dessert that includes some fruit or offer a fruit tray as an alternative for those who choose to skip the dessert altogether.

Healthy Living Recipes