Dieting on a Budget

It is important to have a well-stocked kitchen that has the following low-fat, low-calorie staples:

• Fresh garlic
• Butter-flavored cooking spray
• Canned beans
• Fat-free chicken broth--can be used to make a quick vegetable soup or low-calorie mashed potatoes
  
• Water-packed tuna
• Grated low-fat cheese
• Instant grain dishes--couscous or tabbouleh
• Zesty spices--chili powder, red pepper flakes, and curry blends
• Canned mandarin oranges--can be added to salads or simple desserts when fresh fruit is out of season
  
• Package of pitas or tortillas--can be used as vegetable wraps or cut into wedges and baked to make low-fat chips