Whether we wish to admit it or not, we all have devoured a burger or pizza countless of times. Fast food can be so addictive not only because it’s fast and convenient, it has all this stuff inside that make us feel full in seconds--and then, after just a couple of hours, our energy levels drop so suddenly that we are tempted to eat junk again. As you have guessed it, you become even fatter and unhealthier as the time passes. It’s another a vicious cycle that is hard to break. Thankfully though, there are some equally delicious and filling but much healthier versions of your favorite fast foods:
Healthy Burger. Burgers are probably the No.1 fast food worldwide and now you can make your own healthier version, without sacrificing the taste. If you also like fresh Mediterranean flavors, you’ll love this recipe. To make this (5 servings), lightly season 1 pound of lean ground veal with salt, pepper and 1 tbsp of onion powder. Shape into 4-5 medium sized patties, around 1 inch thick. Lightly grease a grilling pan and add the patties. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side without pressing much, to keep the juices inside. While the patties cook on their last minute, cut 4 burger buns in half and toast in a separate pan for 1 minute on each side, over medium heat. In a separate bowl, crumble 1 cup of feta cheese with a fork and add a bit of oregano. Begin to assemble each burger by placing the meat patty inside the bun, then one slice of tomato and then 1-2 tbsp of crumbled feta on top, just before you close the bun. Voila, your healthy burger is ready...
Fast Veggie Pizza. Pizza and especially western style pizza with multiple toppings is one of the most calorie-dense fast foods. In fact, a single slice can reach 400+ calories alone. If you wish to enjoy a delicious yet healthier pizza alternative, here is a recipe you can make in under 20 minutes. To make this, take a large tortilla bread (around 10 inches in diameter) and spread it with low sodium tomato sauce. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp of ghee and saute 1 small red onion (sliced), 1 green pepper (diced), and 1 clove of minced garlic until soft. Sprinkle the veggies over the tortilla and tomato sauce and top with 1/3 cup of grated mozzarella cheese and 2 tbsp of low-fat cheddar cheese. Season with dry basil and ⅓ tsp of oregano and bake in the oven at 375F/180C for 12 minutes.
The carrot “hot dog”. Yep, as crazy as this may sound, you can actually make ordinary carrots taste like hot dogs with a revolutionary recipe that has taken the Internet by storm. To make 4 carrot hot dogs, pick 4 medium sized carrots that resemble closely the shape of hot dogs. Peel them off and cut any sharp edges. In a mixing bowl, combine 5 tbsp of apple cider vinegar, ¼ cup of vegetable broth, 2 tbsp of soy sauce, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp liquid smoke. ½ tsp of paprika. 1 tbsp of olive oil and 1 tbsp of maple syrup. Add the carrots in the marinade and let sit covered for at least 40 minutes. Preheat the oven to 420F/200C, and place the carrots on a baking dish with the marinade for 30 minutes (covered with foil). Take off the foil and allow to cook for another 15-20 minutes. Carrots should be soft enough to be pinched with a fork but not too mushy. Make your hot dog by toasting each bun and placing a carrot, the top with ketchup, mustard or low-fat mayo as you like.
The strawberry and tea milkshake. Milkshakes are a staple fast-food drink for many but unfortunately, they are loaded with unhealthy fats and calories. People with lactose intolerance cannot drink milkshakes as well for obvious reasons. Now you can make a low calorie and healthier version of your favorite strawberry milkshake in just a few minutes. Begin by brewing one bag of Teatox tea in 1/2 cup of water. Let cool for at least 3 minutes. In a blender, combine ⅓ cup of frozen strawberries, 1 cup of coconut milk, half of frozen banana and your brewed teatox tea. Serve in a tall glass or mason jar chilled. So creamy and delicious you won’t miss the real thing...