Healthy "Add Ins" for 2013
January 1, 2013  | 
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Trends may come and go come but Top Ten Lists are always lots of fun. Here are ten healthy "Add Ins" that are sure to make you healthier and have you wishing all foods could taste this good.

  1. The Green
    If the color of the year is emerald then you’d be wise to follow along and fill your plate with Greens. The darker the better. Whether you choose spinach, mixed salad greens, Swiss Chard or kale, you are sure to improve your health. And look for a new variety of arugula called wasabi arugula sporting a subtle but scrumptious horseradish flavor.
  2. Pumpkin
    Dress up your Greek yogurt---add in ¼ cup of pureed pumpkin, some cinnamon and a few chopped walnuts to make a delicious & energizing breakfast. You may even think you are eating pumpkin pie.
  3. Sunflower Seeds
    Their mild, nutty flavor enhances many dishes. Add them to salads, put some crunch in your yogurt or use them to top off a veggie stir-fry. A few tablespoons go a long way.
  4. Almond Butter
    Spread on a banana or apple slices for the perfect post work out snack or afternoon pick me up.
  5. Hummus with Veggies
    Skip the crackers and use hummus as a way to load up on crunchy veggies. Make your own white bean hummus by combining roasted garlic, white beans and a touch of olive oil in a food processor. Blend until smooth and add in a fresh herb like sage or rosemary.
  6. Drink Hot Tea
    Spend some time in the tea section of your market. This category has exploded and there are flavors that will appeal to every palate. My favorite: Mighty Leaf Green Tea Tropical.
  7. Butternut Squash
    When markets started selling the pre-cut version, this veggie became a staple. Simply coat with a bit of olive oil and sea salt and roast in a 375 degree oven for 30 minutes. Best tip---make extra and put it in your salad the next day.
  8. Whole Grains
    Making them yourself just got easier! Trader Joes has launched a new line of whole grains including barley, bulgur and farro. The best news is that they only take 10 minutes to prepare and taste delicious when paired with veggies.
  9. Beans, Beans, Beans
    They are good for your heart. TRUE! And they boast protein and fiber to keep you feeling full. Rinse canned beans well and add ½ cup to your favorite soup to make a warming lunch. Look for beans that come in BPA free cans such as Eden, Amy’s, Muir Glen or Whole Foods brands.
  10. Dark Chocolate
    Indulge your sweet tooth with dark chocolate. Look for a brand that has at least 65% cacao. Research shows that flavonols found in dark chocolate have potential positive influences on vascular health, such as lowering blood pressure, improving blood flow to the brain and heart. Enjoy one ounce portions in moderation.