Smart Splurges for Valentine's Day
When you don’t want to “say it with flowers” and want to give a Valentine’s Day food gift, how can you indulge when you’re dieting without going overboard? You can be what I call a “smart splurger”. That’s the topic of my TODAY show segment. (Check back later for the video.) What are some smart splurges you enjoy?Look at these choices for some ideas.
While many believe the “gold standard” of chocolate gifts is a giant box of chocolate, that box can contain up to 10,000 calories, a whopping 3 pounds...on your hips!
When it comes to chocolate, think small. A 2 or 4-pack of a specialty chocolate is a special indulgence, and under 200 calories. A single “chocolate” rose weighs in at about 100 calories.
Chocolate-dipped fruits (dried or fresh) and nuts are a nutrient-dense treat. But monitor the portions, especially for nuts. You can buy chocolate-dipped fruits and nuts, or make them yourself. Put into a small cellophane bag with a red ribbon, and you've got a small treat packed with flavor.
For coffee lovers, chocolate and coffee are a match made in heaven. Buy some fancy coffee, and serve with chocolate-covered spoons for a sweet treat. Try some chocolate covered espresso beans. Just a few satisfies a sweet tooth.
Alcohol can be a smart choice if you think small. A half bottle of a sparkling dessert wine is a treat made for two. Served with some fruit and a small piece of chocolate, and it’s a complete dessert for under 200 calories. Consider the mini-bottles of champagne. A four pack with one serving per bottle. Use two bottles on Valentine’s Day, and save the other two for another occasion.
Looking for something sweet but don’t want extra calories, stick with low-cal hot chocolate (25-50 calories) in a fancy mug. A 60-calorie low calorie pudding in a pretty dish can still be a treat. And don’t forget cinnamon hard candy. A piece or two is intense in taste, and can calm a sweet tooth.
Want a food-related gift without calories? Think about a cinnamon-scented candle or some chocolate bubble bath.
Comments
Fat free pudding is a great treat.
Posted by Ken on February 12 at 02:28am
