After an indulgent holiday season that bordered on bacchanalian, most of us are ready to begin 2016 with a clean slate—and our success starts in the kitchen. By applying a smart and simple strategy to how, what, and where we eat, we’re more likely to maintain our resolutions—without feeling deprived. Here are a few easy ways to turn your kitchen into a winner’s circle.
Freshen Up the Fridge
Pop quiz: What is on the lowest shelf of your refrigerator, way in the back? If you don’t know, you don’t need it. Clear it out, and be ruthless. If you find yourself with multiple open bottles of ketchup, combine them—and ditto the hot sauce, mayo, and syrups. Next, rethink your refrigerator shelves. There’s no one-size-fits-all arrangement, and they are easily adjustable. Tend to keep a lot of bottles? Fix your shelves to accommodate them. Finally, clean and declutter: Wipe out the inside and clean up the outside, storing or trashing the notices, reminders, and old photos that have collected in a magnet-jumble on the door. You’ll feel better and make room for new memories!
Prepare Your Pantry
The secret to making the right eating choices is to always feel that you actually have a choice. Smart snacks and easy, healthful meals are key. Think about the textures you crave: if you love a crunch, keep roasted almonds and baked apple chips on hand. Choose meals that are simple enough to make quickly, but that feel indulgent and comforting, like a hearty soup. Stock up on favorites like Progresso™ Light Creamy Potato with Bacon & Cheese soup, a deliciously decadent decision that you can feel good about. Find the foods that work for you so that you feel satisfied no matter how specific your dietary needs are. For example, Progresso™ Light New England Clam Chowder is a traditional classic that is mouth-watering and also gluten free, while Progresso™ Vegetable Classics Minestrone is a hearty and wholesome vegetarian-friendly meal. Lastly, manage your sweet tooth by keeping a cache of aromatic teas and dark chocolate bites nearby. They’ll curb cravings without derailing your efforts.
Clear the Cabinets
There’s an old Sicilian tradition that involves tossing chipped dishware before the New Year begins to ward off negative energy from the past—and it’s a great excuse to get rid of all of the cracked mugs, chipped bowls, and bent spoons you’ve been holding on to. Next, bid adieu to the eternal space eaters: all of those plastic takeout bowls you saved but have long since lost the lids for. Then, consolidate: A kitchen is filled with useful tools, but how many spatulas do you really need? Figure out what you use, and then donate the rest to a local soup kitchen. Also, organize your space. A few shelf dividers can double your cabinet real estate and ensure that you can easily access everything you’ve got. Finally, store wisely: a few clear glass bowls with lids are great cooking and storage tools.
Now that you’ve cleared your space, you’ve truly got a clean slate—and you’re set up for a healthy and happy 2016!
