8 Ways to Cook With Less Oil

Cooking with less oil doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. With a few smart swaps and techniques, you can make your favorite meals healthier while keeping them delicious. Here are eight simple ways to cut back on oil in your everyday cooking.

Use Nonstick Cookware

A high-quality nonstick pan allows you to sauté or fry foods with little to no oil while still achieving a golden finish.

Try Steaming or Boiling

Steam vegetables or boil grains to retain nutrients and moisture without needing added fats.

Use Broth or Water for Sautéing

Replace oil with a splash of vegetable broth or water when cooking onions, garlic, or vegetables—this keeps food from sticking while adding flavor.

Opt for Roasting Spray

A light mist of cooking spray can reduce oil usage while still helping vegetables crisp up in the oven.

Bake Instead of Fry

Baking foods like chicken or fries requires far less oil than deep-frying and still delivers a satisfying texture.

Blend in Healthy Fats

Use mashed avocado, nut butters, or yogurt to add creaminess in recipes instead of relying on oil.

Embrace Slow Cooking

Slow cookers allow ingredients to release their own natural fats and moisture, reducing the need for added oil.

Flavor with Herbs, Spices, and Acids

Enhance taste with garlic, lemon juice, vinegar, or spices—this reduces the need for oil to carry flavor.

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