The best and safest way to loose weight is a combination of things mentioned above.
Drink plenty of water (water, not liquids) 5-8 glasses a day, have a healthy breakfast (very important), eat plenty of veggies.
You shouldn't really cut anything out of your diet (except fast foods) but everything in moderation, too much of anything isn't good. If you feel like having a steak then go ahead, just not a 30oz piece, 4-6 oz with a side of veggies is fine. You want a hot dog, fine, have 1, not 3, you get the idea.
Lastly, you NEED to exercise, there is no way around it. Nothing insane, if you can manage 45 min a day that would be great.
Your goal ( as mentioned above ) should not exceed 2 pounds a day.
I have been doing this for over 2 years now, I've lost 45 pounds and kept it off. The most difficult part was when i did reach my goal, adjusting my food intake so I can stop loosing and start maintaining my weight was tricky. The only thing I haven't adjusted is the exercise.