P. Mehta, RD/ www.healthfulfilling.com
With sizzling hot temperatures, the last thing we need is a hot stove or oven to do our cooking! Summer time is a perfect opportunity to eat a variety of superfoods, foods that provide a lot of healthy nutrients and might have disease fighting abilities. Vegetables and fruits pack an impressive amount of nutrients and antioxidants, and are low in calories which can help shed some pounds, too. Try out some of these summer superfoods to help take advantage of healthy nutrients, stay cool, shed some pounds.
Salads–Before you say no thanks, don’t forget the variety of salads that you can eat. It doesn’t just have to be a mixture of veggies. They can be filling, too! Make them a mix of your favorites veggies, some kind of protein like beans, tuna, grilled chicken, seafood, low fat cheese, cottage cheese or eggs. Add in some whole grain pasta, croutons, or whatever else you like to make it fun and healthy. The more color, the more vitamins, minerals and antioxidants in your plate! Looking for a new twist or flavor of salad? Try greek salads that are made with olive oil, (rich in monounsaturated fat, a healthy fat), and a great variety of vegetables such as cabbage salad, arugula salad, three bean salad, artichoke salad, or shrimp salad! For some recipes of greek salads, check out: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipe-collections/greek-salad/index.html
Wraps–Another great way to get whole grains, and a variety of veggies. Use whole grain wraps without any hydrogenated oils.
Try to add in at least three to four veggies, and a protein source, like lean turkey, grilled chicken, or low fat shredded cheeses. A tasty, healthy entree without much fuss!
Pita sandwiches with hummus, guacamole or bruschetta–Hummus is made out of chick peas, which are an abundant source of fiber, guacamole is a rich source of monounsaturated fat, (a healthy fat), and bruschetta is filled with tomatoes, garlic, and herbs rich in antioxidants. To check out recipes for hummus, guacamole, or bruschetta, see:
http://www.healthfulfilling.com/HealthyAppetizers.html
Stay cool, healthy and fit this summer, and don’t forget to keep moving around!