Healthy date night recipes...do they exist? They do! This post shares 13 healthy recipes that will create an amazing date night experience, and also provide tips on what to avoid for best results!
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Finding the perfect date night recipe that won't ruin your fitness journey might seem like a lost cause. Honestly, don't tell Dustin, but there were times when I would feel more anxious than excited during date nights...for the sole reason that I knew that it was going to tip the scale the next day.
And that's not OK! Date nights are meant to be enjoyable, exciting, and refreshing... the food we eat should enhance the experience, rather than detract from it. That's what this post will help you accomplish. Below, I've shared what foods you should try to avoid, along with recipes that I particularly enjoy during a special night with my beloved.
What Food Should I Avoid During First Dates?
First dates (regardless of how they go) are events that we always remember. The foods we eat can certainly derail a date, or at least distract us from the person sitting across from us. Back in the day, I had spaghetti on a first date with my high school crush, and boy did I regret it! My main recommendations are based on the premise that you want to avoid foods that are super unhealthy, messy to eat, give you gas, or make your breath smell...potent.
Foods to avoid on a first date:
- Indian Curry
- Over-Stuffed Burger
- Tacos
- Onion Rings
- Spaghetti
- Pizza
- Ribs and Wings
- Beans
- Corn on the Cob
- Fermented Foods
What Food Is Both Romantic and Healthy?
When we like someone, a classic way to woo them is with our cooking skills! Especially for me (because food is my love language). But if your loved one is on a fitness journey, and you'd like to demonstrate that you're there to support them, you might need to deepen your search for healthy recipes.
So, I've prepared a breakdown - per course - of healthy date night recipes that will set your night up for success!
Healthy Date Night Recipes: Starters
1. Strawberry Salad with Chia Seed Vinaigrette
This delicious Strawberry Salad with Chia Seed Vinaigrette is a date-night dinner starter packed with fiber and nutrients. It's also the perfect way to enjoy fresh strawberries (hello summer!).
2. 5 Healthy Spring Roll Recipes
These 5 Healthy Spring Roll Recipes offer everything from vegetarian to seafood to protein-packed to fruity flavors. It also includes a sauce recipe for each (think ginger and lime, for example)...because you know how we feel about sauce around here! Oh yeah, they're also very Instagrammable if you want your friends to know how great your date is going 😉
3. Healthy Meat and Cheese Platter
Did you know that charcuterie boards are the fastest way to my heart? But only if they're healthy. This post also includes tips on how to arrange a meat and cheese tray...because presentation plays a key role when making a good impression and setting the mood.
Healthy Date Night Recipes: Entrees
1. 25 Minute Chicken Cauliflower Fried Rice
Looking for a healthy dinner yet unique? If you and/or your date are on a low-carb diet, try out this 25-minute recipe.Made in a skillet, it's one of my favorite easy weeknight dinners. But it's perfect for a romantic dinner with candles and white wine, too. Cauliflower fried rice is a delicious, easy, and healthy fried rice substitute!
2. Healthy Quinoa Make Ahead Casserole
All the comforts of a home cooked meal...clean eating style. For this one pan recipe, I used quinoa penne pasta (which is super tasty, and full of fiber, and protein). Quinoa penne is also gluten-free, if you’re into that sorta thing.
3. 35 Minute Easy Baked Eggplant Parmesan
This is one Italian dish that needs to be on your healthy date night recipes list. Unlike many Italian (saucy) dishes, it's not too messy. And, it’s so easy to make...super helpful when managing first-date jitters!
Healthy Date Night Recipes: Desserts
1. Healthy Apple Crumble
No, a date night isn't complete without dessert! This Healthy Apple Crumble is all apple and spice goodness. Nuts, pepitas, and tasty cinnamon make it a very kissable combo of ingredients.
2. Matcha Green Tea Frozen Yogurt Recipe
Everyone loves ice-cream! This simple recipe will give you the best and irresistible flavors of this exotic superfood. Packed with antioxidants and protein, this matcha green tea frozenyogurt recipe is a sure way to end your date on a good note!
3. Healthy No Bake Cherry Vegan Cheesecake
This decadent cheesecake is a rich, creamy, and delicious vegan option, made with healthy and clean ingredients. Ideal for Valentine's Day or any other night! It includes a gluten-free crust, a cashew-based filling, and a layer of sweet cherry topping. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while still maintaininga clean lifestyle.
Are There Any Healthy Netflix and Chill Snacks?
When easing into a relationship while watching shows on Netflix, we can "accidentally" eat a whole bag of chips...especially if our eyes are peeled to the screen. Next thing you know, you've gained a few pounds after 1 episode of your favorite show! Does it mean you have to give up eating snacks? Nope! Here are some healthy date night recipes that you can have during your Netflix and Chill time!
1. Healthy Baked Zucchini Fries
These tasty baked zucchini fries are a fun and healthy way to eat your veggies and satisfy your fry cravings. They are wonderful as a side dish or as a snack AND, they are healthy, low-carb, gluten-free, easy to make, and totally delicious. Pair them with a clean ranch dip and they’ll disappear from the plate in a matter of minutes!
2. Loaded Cauliflower Tots Recipe
I repeat, LOADED CAULIFLOWER TOTS! These babies taste just like a baked potato with all of the fixings. Yet...are low in carbs (just 1.5 carbs)!Served beside delectable salmon or shrimp, I can't get enough of these. From one tot lover to another, these are next level.
3. 4 Easy Hummus Recipes
The link above shares recipes for avocado, beet, sweet potato, and black bean hummus. Making hummus at home is far easier than one might think. Although there are some varieties you can buy in your local store, I still prefer to make these easy batches of hummus at home. Why? Tastes better! Plus, it's simple, made with healthy ingredients, and contains zero additives. Slice up peppers and wash some grape tomatoes for dippable delights!
4. Easy Homemade Baked Pita Chips
Seasoned with a little sea salt, the perfect pita chip is crispy, flavorful and…healthy! This celebrated recipe for my Homemade Baked Pita Chips will satisfy your snack craving and keep your body happy.They’re also totally dippable (in that homemade hummus, perhaps?).
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