“Guy Foods” Lightened

A hamburger doesn't have to be oversized or loaded with fatty toppings to be a good burger. You may think that the easiest way to lighten a beef burger is to just switch to ground turkey, but that isn't always true. Not all ground turkey is as light as you may believe so make sure to check the label to ensure you're purchasing ground turkey breast (versus "ground turkey" that may also include the darker meat and skin). In fact, regular ground turkey has more fat and calories than 93% lean ground beef. So if you prefer beef, choose the extra-lean ground beef or ground sirloin and top with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and reduced-fat cheese.

• Video Demo: Get tips from our editor on how to lighten burgers 

Ditch the meat-lover's pizza and replace the mounds of sausage and pepperoni with a variety of colorful veggies. Just one slice can really pack in the calories, saturated fat, and sodium but with a few smart tweaks like using fresh vegetables, a sensible amount of cheese, and lean meat, you can still savor every bite to the fullest.  To cut down on the calories even more, use a thin, whole wheat pizza crust.

• Video Demo: See how our editor made over deep-dish pizza 

Nachos are chock-full of goodness hitting on all types of flavor and texture notes. For a quick and simple nacho fix without the added calories, fat, and sodium, make your own by using wholesome ingredients. Substitute salty taco-seasoned ground beef with shredded lean pork tenderloin. In place of premade, lard-packed refried beans, mash pinto or black beans and dollop on the chips. Add diced avocado in place of mounds of guacamole to evenly distribute the creamy, cool flavor and keep the calories in check.  Finally, top with shredded reduced-fat cheese and pop under the broiler until melted instead of drizzling with neon orange cheese sauce.

• Video Demo: Learn how to lighten nachos 

• Video Demo: Watch how to lighten fried chicken
• See More: Healthy Chicken Recipes

• Video: 5 Nutritious Beef Cuts