10 Healthy Fake-Out Recipes

Ok, so we love a good April Fools’ Day prank as much as you probably do. But you know what’s even better? Tricking yourself into eating healthier.

Take mashed potatoes for example. You really want them but… they’re not exactly diet-friendly (especially when they’re loaded with butter and cream).  

The good news is that you can have your “mashed potatoes” and your “ice cream” and “fried rice” WITHOUT sabotaging your diet—with these tasty (but totally healthy) fake-out recipes!

No. 1: Nachos Rellenos

Rachael Ray Show

This deliciously decadent, but not all that bad for you, recipe can be made in 30 minutes! Rach calls it a fakeout, because she lightens it up. She starts with charred poblano chile “boats” which she fills with refried beans, tortilla chips, pico de gallo and cheese, then bakes. She tops with sour cream, green onion and pickled sliced jalapenos and serves -- so easy and so delicious!

No. 2: Graham Elliot's Healthy Mashed Potato Fake-out

Rachael Ray Show

Mmmmmashed potatoes! So creamy, dreamy, and sinfully delicious! Try this guilt-free version made with cooked, mashed cannellini beans in place of taters -- it’s so good, and good for you!

No. 3: Jeanette's Skinny Turkey Meatballs with Spaghetti Squash

Rachael Ray Show

Spaghetti and meatballs just got a flavorful health check! Jeanette recreates this iconic meal using spaghetti squash instead of pasta, and ground turkey instead of ground beef for the meatballs. Could this be your new favorite? Hey, you never know!

No. 4: Banana 'Ice Cream' Fakeout

Rachael Ray Show

This recipe is for those days when you just can’t stop thinking about ice cream -- or the caloric sabotage that comes along with it. Simply puree frozen bananas with a splash of milk for a nutrient-filled frozen treat!

No. 5: Jeanette’s Italian-Style Grilled Watermelon Pizza

Rachael Ray Show

To make this fun fake-out, our culinary team pro Jeanette takes a round slice of watermelon, including the rind, and grills it. Then, she tops it with delicious toppings.

No. 6: Jeanette’s Zoodle Stir-Fry

Rachael Ray Show

It’s a healthy takeout fake-out! Using zoodles instead of regular noodles will help you feel better about the sweet and spicy binge you’re about to indulge in. Possibly, the best part is it’s all made in one wok, so cleanup is a breeze.

No. 7: Vivian Howard’s Okra Oven Fries

Rachael Ray Show

Instead of classic potato-based fries, try making them with okra, a southern favorite! You’ll still get the crispiness since these are roasted, and they’re better for your waistline too.

No. 8: Michael Symon’s Zucchini Crudo

Rachael Ray Show

Crudo is traditionally made with fish, but chef Michael Symon put his own spin on it, and instead made it with ribbons of raw zucchini. Did we mention it’s vegan?

No. 9: Jeanette's 5 Minute 'Rice' and Beans

Rachael Ray Show

Rice and beans gets a healthy makeover by swapping in store-bought riced cauliflower instead of rice. The texture and flavor are still there, and your waistline will thank you.

No. 10: Grant’s Cauliflower Fried Rice

Rachael Ray Show

Cauliflower is certainly having a moment in the limelight right now, as it’s a great substitute for rice, pizza crusts, and even chicken wings! Try it, you’ll like it!