Easy Tips For A Heathy Easter Roast

Look, there’s no disputing that chocolate is the MVP over Easter, however, there is often a supporting cast member during the holiday weekend which, while vitally important, often gets overlooked.

That’s right – it’s the humble Easter roast dinner, which, despite being savoury rather than sweet, can also prove hazardous to the old waistline. It doesn't need to be this way, though. 

Here are some tips for preparing a healthy roast lunch over the long weekend.

While most meats are high in protein, some of them can be a little fattier than others. If you’re looking to slim down, we recommend swapping out beef and/or lamb for roast chicken, which according to the British Heart Foundation, will save up to 1008kj and 30g of fat. Likewise, opt for the leaner chicken breast over thighs or drumsticks, and try to avoid eating the skin. 

While roasting meat with butter or lard often makes it nice and crispy on the outside, it will also add unnecessary calories. Instead, try drizzling your main course in olive or vegetable oil before popping it into the oven. It will have a similar, yet healthier, effect. Same rule applies if you're roasting vegetables.

Sorry to sound like your mum, but this is a vital point. At least a third of your plate needs to be covered in vegies – think carrot, broccoli, peas and corn. Just remember to avoid cooking and/or serving them with butter. While we recommend steaming your vegetables, roasting them with a little bit of oil and rosemary is also a good option for a special occasion like Easter.

If you’re going to push the boat out and add a little gravy, make sure it’s not too salty. When buying instant gravy, look for the salt-reduced options. Additionally, if you’re keen to use meat juices in your gravy, make sure you let the juices sit for a few minutes before adding it to the rest of the mixture. This will allow the fat to rise to the surface, so you can easily remove it before mixing it in with the rest of your ingredients.

For more simple tips on how to keep your weight loss on track over the Easter Long Weekend, check this out!