Better-for-You Brands + Classic Comfort Dishes
This past year, I have embraced comfort dishes with my whole heart... and whole stomach. From classic mac 'n cheese to wholesome baked goods, I have reached for dishes, products, and recipes that fill me with warmth and comfort while trying to navigate the changes of the world around me. But unfortunately sometimes those comfort foods, me and so many others reach for, are not the best option when it comes to fueling our bodies with the nutrients they need. Which is why I invested my time in looking for alternative, better-for-you options (that are also convenient) when it came to my favorite classic comfort dishes!
Annie’s
Talk about ooey-gooey mac ‘n cheese! When I first tried Annie’s, I was actually babysitting for some kiddos and this was what they wanted for lunch. I was blown away. Organic + options for all kinds of specialty diets, this is by far the best boxed mac ‘n cheese for when you are looking to fuel your body with cheesy comfort. Shells + White Cheddar is my fave!
Wholly Veggie
One of my favorite things to eat when I am feeling extra stressed, are hot wings! But the oily mess that comes from fried chicken is something I wish I could avoid. Insert Wholly Veggie Buffalo Cauliflower! When I happened upon these, I was ecstatic. My favorite comfort food but veggie forward and delicious too. They are the perfect alternative for my hot wings cravings - just dip ‘em in some dairy free ranch + you’re set!
Banza
I grew up in an italian household, so pasta was always the solution for a crappy day + pizza was always our end of the week go-to meal! Which is why when I heard about Banza’s protein-packed pasta and pizza, I rushed to the store to get some. I love me some pasta + pizza, but sometimes after those meals I would feel so sluggish and dragged down. Banza’s twist on my own family’s fave comfort dishes, has let me have my cake and eat it too. Comfort food + fuel all in one!
Halo Top
After growing up watching every heart-broken girl whip out a pint of Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream, I couldn’t help but deem ice cream the ultimate comfort food. But as I got older, I realized eating a pint of ice cream was actually more stressful on my body than the actual stress I was facing! That was until I discovered Halo Top. Protein-packed, with dairy + dairy free options, these pints range from 270-350 calories per pint. And with a plethora of yummy flavors, they quickly became my new “eat a whole pint of ice cream” guilt-free, comfort food!
Keep in mind…
Your body needs fuel + nourishment, but your mental health should come above it all. If you want those hot wings or nothing but a full pint of Ben & Jerry’s Phish Food will make you feel better, then have those things! Never deprive yourself of what you want/need. You deserve all the good food + good feelings.
Xoxo,
G