With the festive season just a month away, we can officially say it: raclette season is open (and the same goes for fondues, tartiflettes and all the other winter classics!). Pure joy! But let’s not forget that these dishes tend to be rich, unbalanced, and responsible for a few extra pounds — and unwanted cellulite. So to enjoy every bite this winter while still feeling great in your body, adopt these smart habits!
Lightening up raclette, the king of winter dishes
Let’s start with this classic of cosy winter gatherings, perfect for a convivial evening, but not so great for your waistline. For a lighter raclette:
- Skip the traditional charcuterie and swap it for leaner options like cooked ham or Grisons beef or bresaola.
- When it comes to cheese, stick to 3 to 4 slices, cutting each one in half to slow down your eating and feel full sooner.
- For the potatoes, limit yourself to 2 medium-sized ones, and resist going back for more.
- Also think about filling half your plate with green salad, gherkins, mushrooms or any vegetables you fancy.
Lightening up pasta gratin
Quick and easy to make, pasta gratin is a winter staple in many households. But the calorie count can add up fast!
- For a lighter version, use wholegrain pasta, which is far more nutritious.
- Replace the crème fraîche with a homemade béchamel made with skimmed milk and flour (no butter!).
- Don’t forget to add vegetables to the gratin, such as mushrooms or courgette.
Lightening up a Savoyard fondue
Hard to resist a fondue… Luckily, we have a few tricks to keep things in check!
- Replace half of the classic cheese blend with cancoillotte, a cheese that melts beautifully and is far lower in calories than the usual varieties.
- For dipping, stick to a few pieces of wholegrain bread and round it out with cubes of vegetables.
Lightening up gratin dauphinois
Potatoes, cream, grated cheese… Again, not exactly a friend to your figure or your cellulite! That said, there’s no question of going without this winter favourite.
- To lighten it up, swap the full-fat cream for light cream or fromage blanc.
- Mix in some sliced turnips and carrots alongside the potato slices.
- Serve your gratin with a green salad, and you’re all set!
Lightening up tartiflette
A true winter staple, tartiflette is nonetheless one of the more indulgent dishes for your waistline!
For a lighter version:
- Use fromage blanc instead of cream.
- Opt for cancoillotte instead of reblochon.
- Use diced ham instead of lardons.
- Don’t forget the onions.
- Serve your portion of tartiflette with a generous green salad.
And also…
Alongside these smart habits for lightening up winter dishes, think about cutting back on (or avoiding altogether) alcohol, skip the salt and reach for spices instead, avoid second helpings, eat slowly, drink plenty of water and, if you really fancy dessert, go for a fruit salad!
Don’t forget — if your goal is to slim down, we have highly effective food supplements at Cellublue. They help boost your metabolism, curb hunger and prevent fat storage.
