Potluck? Bring Your Own "Safe" Dish

Potlucks are tricky. Even if you know what everyone else is bringing to the party, you're never quite sure how anything has been made: How much butter, cheese, sour cream, mayo is in that dip or casserole? Has it been fried or baked? Did they use whole eggs, egg whites or egg substitute? It can be a dieter's nightmare trying to navigate a buffet table when there are so many question marks in your head--and very upsetting the next day when you step on the scale and find the number is higher because you didn't know what you were eating the night before.

Luckily, when you go to a potluck (as opposed to a regular cocktail party or dinner party), you get to bring your own dish. And, if you're smart, you'll make it something you know is healthful: i.e., a big green salad with lots of colorful fruits, veggies, nuts (as long as there are no known allergies) and a light dressing on the side. People like to have alternatives to the heavy stuff, and a salad is always a crowd pleaser. Make that your "entree," and supplement with small tastes of whatever else appeals to you. You'll be satisfied by all the chewing, so you won't be tempted to go back and eat chips.

Other great potluck options are: raw veggies and a veggie-based dip like babaganoush or hummus; fresh fruit and low-fat Cool Whip or yogurt dip; vegetable-based soup; low-fat chili; fruit salsa with whole grain pita chips.

Oh, and while at the potluck, remember to socialize--that is, after all, the true purpose of a get-together.