Eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring or bland. There are lots of ways to add flavor and creativity to meals while still focusing on nutritious ingredients. Follow these simple tips for bringing more wholesome foods to your kitchen:
Go for Fresh Herbs and Spices Skip the salt and butter and flavor your meals with fresh or dried herbs and spices instead. Basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, cumin, curry powder, garlic, ginger, and chili peppers pack a flavor punch without adding fat or sodium. Get creative with spice rubs on proteins or make herb-infused oils and vinegars.
Load Up on Veggies Aim to make half your plate fruits and vegetables by adding veggies into everything from omelets to pasta dishes to soups and stews. Opt for bright, vibrant produce like broccoli, bell peppers, mushrooms, tomatoes, and zucchini to increase the fiber and nutrients in your meals.
Cook with Nutritious Whole Grains Quinoa, brown rice, oats, farro, and bulgur pack more nutrients and fiber compared to refined grains like white rice or regular pasta. Build your meals aroundwhole grains for steady energy and stick-to-your-ribs satisfaction.
Bake, Broil or Grill Instead of Fry Skip the frying oil and go for healthier cooking methods like baking, broiling, grilling or air frying instead. You’ll avoid adding unnecessary grease, fat and calories. Chicken, fish, veggies and more are delicious baked or grilled with a little seasoning.
Enjoy Healthy Fats Not all fats are unhealthy – incorporate more good fats from foods like avocado, olive oil, nuts and fatty fish. Use olive or avocado oil for cooking, add slices of avocado to sandwiches, snack on a handful of almonds, and serve salmon fillets for dinner.
Drink More Water Stay hydrated with water instead of sugary soda, juices or alcohol. Adding a flavor boost like citrus slices, mint leaves or cucumbers can make water more enticing. Proper hydration will also help you feel fuller.
