What are the latest and greatest health-related products? How can I spice up my ho-hum workout? Are the new nutritious food products and health-focused restaurants worth my money? If you're asking any of these questions you've found the right spot!Note: While I'm a journalist with a Bachelor's degree in kinesiology and am a Certified Health Education Specialist, I don't replace the guidance/counseling that comes from a good chat with your doctor or dietitian. For more information, feel free to contact me at karlaswalsh@gmail.com!
Healthful Bites
With shopping, baking, parties and more, it’s easy to just grab one of those all-too-convenient cookies tempting us all at every turn. But if you have an arsenal of simple, satisfying and nutritious options at-the-ready, it will be much easier to make smart choices and save the baked goods for treats!
Here are three options that are as easy as A, B…well, that’s it! Two ingredients, less than one minute to prepare—zero reason not to try them. :)
1. Santa Berries: Seriously, how cute are these?! Berries and cream are a classic combo, but this twist I stumbled upon on Pinterest takes it to a whole different, festive level. Cut off the leaf-end to make a base, then slice off the top 1/4 to serve as the hat. Make a “face” out of whipped cream, or in this case, I tried nonfat Greek yogurt with a bit of stevia for a bit of protein. Add two mini chocolate chips for eyes, add the hat and a final dot of whipped cream or yogurt. Alternatively, just slice off the leaves and top the whole strawberry with cream/yogurt to make a Santa hat. Serve this at your next get-together as a healthful dessert option that kids will love.
2. Cheesy Salsa Dip: This awesome swap for those who love chili con queso comes from Roni over at Green Lite Bites. The day after I spotted this genius idea on her site, I had to give it a try myself! Simply microwave a wedge of Laughing Cow light cheese for about 30 seconds, mix with 1/4 cup salsa and enjoy with your dipper of choice. Sliced veggies (carrots, celery, peppers, broccoli) or chips (pita, tortilla) all would work well. I’d love to hear what you come up with to scoop up this yummy (and crowd-pleasing) snack! Next time I whip this up, I’m going to make it a meal: 2 whole-wheat tortillas + cheesy salsa dip + 1 grilled chicken breast, diced + grilled peppers and onions = guilt-free quesadilla time!
3. Cinnamon Apples: I admit, this can’t even qualify as a recipe. But if you ever struggle with finding motivation to eat another serving of produce, this trick might help. Core and thinly slice your favorite variety of apple (Granny Smith for me, please!) and sprinkle on a dash of cinnamon. The spice not only adds awesome flavor to the juicy apples, but it also packs a fiber punch. Feeling like a dessert? Warm a whole, cored apple topped with cinnamon in the microwave or oven until tender. Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of low-fat frozen yogurt or ice cream. Mmm!
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In other news, the winner of the Nasoya giveaway is Audrey, who shared:
“My most recent one is probably veggie burgers that turned into mashed potatoes. I still can’t figure out what went wrong…”
Congrats, Audrey! Please email me at karlaswalsh@gmail.com with your mailing address and your prize will be on the way very soon. Wishing you all much kitchen success in the future!
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What are your top picks for quick snacks?
