Low cal dips!

One thing I am trying to do this time around losing weight is to find a different way to do the things I love but in a better way.

What I am talking about people is chips and dip! My husband and I don’t go out much, having 3 kids and all, so our entertainment on weekend nights consist of renting movies, having a few beers and chips. But, as we all know, if you just have a bag in front of you mindlessly eating, the calories add up quickly!!

So instead of having chips, I have been making a veggie tray with some healthy dips. We are still enjoying watching movies, and having a beer, but the calories we are saving eating that instead of scarfing down Dorito’s is huge!

These two dips come from Women’s Health Magazine.

The first one is a spinach dip

Here is what you will need:

1 package frozen, chopped spinach, thawed
1/4 cup non fat mayonnaise
1/2 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
1 tsp. fresh lemon juice
2 large scallions, chopped
2 oz. crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill (or omit that if you don’t like dill)
1-2 tsp. horseradish

Blend all until smooth.

Makes 12 servings: Each serving is 30 calories, 1.5 grams of fat and 1 gram of fiber

The next dip is for hummus. I know you can buy that at the store, but its so easy to make!

2 TB. extra virgin olive oil
2-4 TB. fresh lemon juice
2-4 TB. water, depending on how thick you want it
1 can garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained
2-3 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup tahini
1/4 cup non fat plain yogurt

Mix the liquids first, then add the remaining ingredients and blend until smooth. Add more water and salt to taste.

This also makes 12 servings: Each serving is 75 calories, 5 grams of fat and 1 gram of fiber.

The key to making this work?? PLAN AHEAD! If the veggies aren’t cut up, or I didn’t make a dip, then we will definitely reach for the bag of chips instead. I might do this while making dinner and put it in the fridge for later.

What are your ideas for healthy snacks while staying in for the evening and watching movies??