Surprising Ingredient Swaps to Make Your Favorite Recipes Healthier
![](https://cmx.weightwatchers.com/assets-proxy/weight-watchers/image/upload/q_auto/v1615990817/visitor-site/prod/us/SurprisingIngredientSwapsToMakeYourFavoriteRecipesHealthier_US_GrasshopperCupcakes_01750_RET_Masthead_1200x628.jpg?auto=webp)
![](https://cmx.weightwatchers.com/assets-proxy/weight-watchers/image/upload/q_auto/v1615990865/visitor-site/prod/us/SurprisingIngredientSwapsToMakeYourFavoriteRecipesHealthier_US_GrasshopperCupcakes_01750_RET_Mobile_768x432.jpg?auto=webp)
Imagine making a rich chocolate cake with that sought-after fudgy texture without using a ton of butter. Or how about a super-creamy mac and cheese with less cheddar? It might sound crazy, but we're using pantry goods like black beans and freezer staples like cauliflower rice to add creaminess and texture to desserts, pasta, soups, and more, all while cutting down on fat and making these crowd-favorite dishes more nutritious.
From chickpea cookies to aquafaba ice cream, here are our best recipes broken down by their I-can't-believe-it ingredient.
Recipes That Use Unexpected Ingredients
Aquafaba
Winter Squash or Canned Pumpkin
Related Articles
- Missing an ingredient? We've got you covered with these smart swaps
- 12 easy ways to use up your canned beans
- A dozen delicious squash recipes
Leslie Fink, MS, RD, has worked on the WeightWatchers® editorial team for more than 20 years. She plays a key role in food, recipe, and program content, as well as product partnerships and experiences.