Whether you’re throwing a party or simply in charge of helping with the food, you can play it heart smart and follow some simple guidelines. While it may be tempting to have a lavish spread of foods that are creamy, dreamy and fried, nobody will benefit from those unhealthy options. So here’s how to trim the fat from the final party of the holidays without sacrificing great taste. When it comes to beverages, tea, diet soda, coffee, lite beer, wine and a holiday punch with low-sugar juice or diet soda make great low-calorie options. Be sure that your table follows a 50-50 rule where half the table is fruit and veggie dishes. Fruit and vegetable trays with low fat or fat-free dressing. Slice up apples, oranges, strawberries, grapes, pears and other fresh fruits. For a vegetable tray, use carrots, celery, cauliflower, broccoli and snap peas.

All dips should be prepared with low-fat or fat-free mayo or sour cream. Low-fat yogurt can also be substituted. Serve foods with whole wheat crackers or breads in place of white products. Offer lean proteins such as roast beef, turkey, ham and steamed shrimp. For condiments, include mustard, relish, low-fat mayo, ketchup. Wherever possible add beans and other legumes to dishes – such as casseroles, soups and healthy sides. If you’re serving a dinner, bypass the appetizers which are a pitfall of extra calories. Try cutting desserts into bite-sized servings. Whether it’s cakes, brownies, pastries or pies, offer pint-sized portions so that party revelers can have a tiny taste without going overboard.