It's ok to cave to southern food cravings with these dishes.

Craving southern style recipes? You don’t need to abandon your weight loss goals or your nutritious eating habits when your mouth starts watering for those classic dishes! Check out these 21 deliciously healthy ways to eat traditional southern style cooking.

1. Carolina Fresh Cole Slaw

This no-mayo cole slaw is much kinder to your thighs than traditional versions.

2. Slow Cooker Red Beans and Rice

Healthy southern foods like this one are big on taste and nutrition.

3. Whole Wheat Buttermilk Biscuits

Classic biscuits will give you a muffin top—try this healthier alternative instead.

4. Juicy Faux Fried Chicken

Enjoy the healthy southern foods you crave—without a bit of fried food guilt. Grab the recipe here.

5. Roasted Okra (Okra Fries)

Simple and clean—there’s lots to love about this okra recipe.

6. Oven-Baked Green Tomatoes

Forget fried and bake healthy southern dishes like this tasty side.

7. Slow Cooker Southern Style Green Beans

Healthy southern foods like this side dish may make you wonder why you didn’t try clean eating sooner!

8. Super Easy Black Eyed Peas

This version of black eyed peas and rice is a simple and delicious option.

9. Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Yummy, healthy southern dishes like this one are a cleaner alternative to traditional recipes.