Everyone loves a cheat day. A day when you can take it easy on your workout regime and indulge in the guilty pleasure foods that you love. But for many, that respite can come with a side of guilt for not following their diets.
Luckily, when they are incorporated thoughtfully into a balanced approach to weight loss, cheat days can actually play a crucial role in maintaining both physical and mental well-being. Dieting can be demanding, and these days offer a much-needed detachment from the strict regimen, providing relief and preventing feelings of deprivation. This mental reset can even jumpstart your commitment to a weight loss journey and promote a healthier relationship with food in the long run.
So, how can you navigate these delightful days successfully? First, consider scheduling your cheat days strategically. Align them with social events or special occasions, ensuring you don't go overboard on random days. Secondly, indulge in mindfulness and portion control. Take time to enjoy your favourite treat, but don't overdo it. And finally, use your cheat day as an opportunity to discover healthier alternatives for your favourite dishes. Who knows, you might find a healthier version that satisfies both your taste buds and your weight loss goals!
Here are 8 hearty cheat day dinners to have without compromising on your diet goals:
Egg Tikka:
Marinate hard-boiled eggs in a mixture of yoghurt, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, cumin powder, turmeric, and chilli powder. Allow the flavours to infuse for at least an hour. Thread the eggs onto skewers with colourful bell peppers and onions. Grill or bake until the tikka is slightly charred and the flavours have melded together. Serve with a side of mint chutney and a fresh cucumber-tomato salad
Tandoori Chicken:
Indulge in the smoky and succulent flavours of Tandoori Chicken without feeling guilty. Marinate chicken pieces in a mixture of yoghurt and spices, then bake or grill until tender and charred. Pair it with a side of mint chutney and a fresh cucumber-tomato salad.
Grilled Fish Tikka:
Enjoy the goodness of seafood with Grilled Fish Tikka. Marinate pieces of fish in a blend of yoghurt, spices, and lemon juice before grilling them to perfection. Serve with a side of green chutney and grilled veggies.
Vegetable Korma:
Indulge in a creamy and rich Vegetable Korma, a vegan dish that combines mixed vegetables with luscious cashew and coconut-based sauce. The dish is filled with flavours from aromatic spices and is best served with quinoa or whole wheat roti.
Masala Dosa:
This South Indian speciality makes for a delightful cheat meal option. Masala Dosa is a thin, crispy rice and lentil crepe filled with a spiced potato filling. Pair it with coconut chutney and sambar for a delicious dinner treat.
Oil Free Rogan Josh:
For a non-vegetarian indulgence, Rogan Josh is a fantastic choice. Make a healthier version of this much-loved mutton curry by cutting down on oil and simmering the meat with a mix of aromatic spices, tomatoes, and yoghurt. Enjoy it with brown rice or whole wheat naan.
Quinoa Khichdi:
In a pan, sauté cumin seeds, ginger, and garlic. Add diced vegetables like carrots, peas, and bell peppers. Stir in rinsed quinoa and lentils. Pour in water or vegetable broth and let it cook until the quinoa and lentils are tender. Season with turmeric, cumin powder, coriander, and salt. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Pesto:
Spiralise zucchini to create "zoodles" and toss them with a creamy avocado pesto made from ripe avocados, basil, lemon juice, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil. Garnish with cherry tomatoes and toasted pine nuts for added flavour and texture.