Committing to a low-fat lifestyle means making some changes in our kitchens. But what do we mean by a low-fat kitchen? Basically we mean replacing high-fat foods with low-fat foods. So yes, those double-stuff sandwich cookies should be tossed, along with that extra-butter popcorn. But don’t despair, there are so many low-fat products available these days, alternatives are pretty easy to find. So what should we choose and lose?
Choose:
Oils Olive oil, canola oil, nonstick cooking spray, safflower oil, flavored oils
Canned Fish Water-packed tuna, salmon and sardines
Canned Vegetables and Fruit Peas, carrots, corn, beets, mushrooms, asparagus; peaches, pineapple, pears - in light syrup
Canned Tomatoes Whole, diced or crushed tomatoes, tomato purees, tomato sauces (with no added salt)
Legumes and Grains Canned or dried black beans, pinto beans, chickpeas (Garbanzo beans), kidney beans, navy beans, black-eyed peas; rice, lentils, barley, couscous, quinoa, bulgur, kamut
Pasta Whole wheat spaghetti, penne, lasagna sheets and other noodles
Jars Anchovies, capers, pimientos, peppers, artichokes, pickles, sundried tomatoes, minced garlic
Soups and Stocks Low-fat, low-sodium canned soups and soup mixes; low-sodium, fat-free broths, bouillon cubes and stock concentrates
Flavorings Herbs, spices and seasonings; whole garlic, garlic paste, tomato paste, chili paste, bottled ginger, low-sodium Worcestershire sauce, soy sauces and bottled marinades
Dressings Vinegars, mustards, low-fat or fat-free salad dressings and mayonnaise
Breads and Cereals Whole grain breads, rolls and bagels; whole wheat flour; cereals such as oatmeal, bran flakes or low-fat granola
Dried Fruits Cranberries, cherries, blueberries and raisins
Nuts and Seeds Almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts, peanuts, pecans; pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and flax seeds
Sugars Honey, molasses, maple syrup
Snacks Pretzels, low-fat microwave popcorn, whole grain crackers; sugar-free/fat-free pudding and jello, applesauce
Thanks http://lowfatcooking.about.com/od/mealplanning/a/pantry102504.htm
