10 of the Most Popular Everyday Health Recipes of 2023

Lots of people are afraid to try seafood on the grill, but kebabs are an ideal way, because you won’t risk anything slipping down between the grates. Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, according to the USDA, and delivers the all-important omega-3s that most Americans don’t get enough of. Plus, it cooks quickly, so it’s a great fast meal when you’re in a hurry.

Green Goddess dressing gets its name and bright flavor from the green herbs it contains. In this version, Greek yogurt stands in for less-healthy ingredients such as mayonnaise and full-fat sour cream — both of which are higher in unhealthy saturated fat according to the USDA. As a bonus, the Greek yogurt adds a natural tang to your dish.

Avocados in ice cream?! Avocados are packed with healthy monounsaturated fats and lend a rich and smooth texture to this frozen dessert while replacing the unhealthy saturated fats in traditional ice cream. According to MedlinePlus, monounsaturated fats are beneficial for lowering LDL ("bad") cholesterol and reducing risk of heart disease and stroke. A bonus: Avocados contain fiber — at 10 grams (g) per fruit, per the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Bacon minus the pig might sound like a stretch, but liquid smoke and smoked paprika give these crisp carrots a meaty flavor that will satisfy omnivores and vegans alike. Plus, carrot “bacon” is significantly lower in sodium, calories, and saturated fat, according to data from the USDA.

Potato latkes (aka fried potato pancakes) are a Hanukkah staple. Unfortunately, the oil used to cook them adds a lot of calories. In this recipe, only a small amount of olive oil is used. Since olive oil is composed of mostly heart-healthy monounsaturated fats (according to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health) and since it's used sparingly, these latkes are lighter in calories and healthier than usual. Sweet potatoes (rather than white ones) add a natural sweetness to this traditional dish along with valuable nutrients such as vitamin A.

Perhaps the best bacon substitute you’d never think of, rice paper bacon marinated in a simple homemade sauce perfectly mimics the crunch of traditional bacon! This low-fat, lower-sodium option is a perfect bacon stand-in served with eggs or even in place of the “B” in a BLT! Simple to make and delicious to enjoy, this vegan bacon is sure to be a hit!

You likely tend to eat cantaloupe cut into cubes or scooped with a spoon, but why not change things up and blend it into a beverage? When paired with the natural sweetness of grapes and the protein, calcium, and probiotic benefits of Greek yogurt (per Harvard Health Publishing), this melon shines. Plus, this refreshing drink is packed with fluid and will help you hit your hydration goal.

Basil does not just belong on pizza. Though it is well-known in Italian cooking, this highly versatile herb works well with plenty of other flavors, including watermelon. Fresh basil provides one of the highest levels of the plant pigments beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin of all herbs, per past research. These pigments have been shown to support eye health, among other things.

Mint chocolate chip ice cream is one of America’s favorite flavors, according to data from YouGov, and no wonder: Cool peppermint flavor is extra refreshing on a hot summer day. Even more refreshing? The fact that this version has nearly half the calories and a fraction of the saturated fat per serving as store brands, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The dangers of eating uncooked eggs and raw wheat flour outweigh the nostalgia of licking the bowl, according to FoodSafety.gov. But with this recipe, you can enjoy all that you love about sneaking a taste of cookie dough — with less risk. Cottage cheese dough with rich chocolate flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth, and provides 9 g of filling protein per serving. Just mix and enjoy!