Let’s be honest: Takeout food is so good, if I could order it every night, I would. But if you’re trying to save money and stay healthy, it might be time to try making your favorite takeout dishes at home. Takeout is usually loaded with oil and salt, making it not always the most nutritious choice (and that's what makes it taste so good). Cooking at home gives you control over the quality and amount of each ingredient you use, which will make you more conscious of what you’re putting into your body. And if you’re not convinced yet, think about it this way: the healthier you cook at home, the more you’ll enjoy the real thing when you get takeout or go out to eat. Here are a few healthy swaps to inspire you:
Pizza
This quinoa pizza crust has much more protein and fiber than normal pizza dough.
This cauliflower pizza crust is loaded with fiber and perfect for anyone with a gluten allergy.
This grilled pizza is a perfect summer alternative to ordering in. Use whole wheat pizza dough and load it up with veggies on top to get more nutrients in.
Pasta
Chickpea pasta is hands-down my favorite pasta alternative. With about double the fiber and protein of regular pasta, it’s the perfect way to bump up the nutrition in your meal when you’re craving pasta.
Burgers
If you’re trying to cut down on red meat, this is the perfect alternative for you: This black bean burger is loaded with plant protein and fiber that you wouldn’t get from regular beef.
Chinese Food
If you’re looking to get more veggies into your Chinese food, cauliflower rice is your best bet.
Make peanut noodles healthier at home with spinach noodles, or even spaghetti squash!
Thai Food
This Pad Thai recipe is almost too easy. It may not be as authentic as the dish you get from your local Thai place, but it’s still pretty damn good.
Mexican Food
If you want to up the nutrition in a homemade burrito bowl, you can make it with cauliflower rice! I also recommend nixing the sour cream and using greek yogurt instead for extra protein.
Tacos are one of my personal favorite foods, but they are usually excessively greasy. When you make them at home, you can get all the same flavors without the extra oil you would get from a restaurant.
Wings
Spoon Tip: If you want to make these extra crispy, pop them in the air fryer!
Sushi
Making your own sushi burrito gives you the flexibility to add more veggies and control the amount of rice and sauces.
If you’re not feeling ambitious enough to make your own sushi, order these rolls instead.
Let us know if you try any of these recipes by tagging us @spoonuniversity on IG!