According to this month’s Supermarket Savvy Newsletter, some of the expected hot food trends for 2011 are foods that have been around for a long time. Now they’re enjoying a renewed interest. Along with each are some tips and recipes to help you easily fit them into your menus.
- Chickpeas and Hummus
Chickpeas are an easy addition to any salad or as a substitute for other beans in dishes like chili. Try using hummus instead of mayo the next time you make a sandwich.
- Kale and other bitter greens
Try this recipe for baked kale chips and you’ll wonder how you live without them! Or if you’re looking for a warm winter dish, this kale and sweet potato soup is easy and delicious. - Ancient Grains (like Quinoa, Faro, Millet, Spelt, Kamut or Amaranth)
Because of their popularity, many of these are now readily available on your grocery shelves. Try a pre-seasoned version or add some to soups and stews. - Pumpkin and Winter Squash
Pureed pumpkin is a great substitute for fat when baking and adds richness and fiber to your dish. Try it next time you use a brownie or cake mix. - Artisanal Whole Fruit Ice Pops
Save your money and make your own. Puree fresh fruit with a little water or juice and freeze in ice cube trays or freezer pop molds. Another bonus is avoiding the added sugar in the commercial version, who needs it! - Varietal Honey
Be careful with the amount of honey you use as it still adds sugar and calories. That being said, these varieties might be a nice change lightly drizzled over fruit. - Roasting Anything
Need we say more? Chicken, pork, vegetables, potatoes, nuts…the possibilities are endless. - Raw Nuts
Whether you like raw or roasted nuts, they still pack a great nutritional punch. High in protein and heart healthy, they go well on anything from fish or chicken (crushed into the breading and baked) to sprinkling on your salads. Keep portions in mind since they’re also high in calories. - Super Spices
Spices are a hot item this year. From the convenience packages like McCormick’s Recipe Inspirations to using spices for their health benefits. You can’t go wrong with adding a new spice to your repertoire. A new spice can make ‘the same old’ taste like something completely different. Pick one to try and look online for recipes. Once you feel comfortable with the taste, you’ll be adding it to all kinds of dishes.
- Sweet Potatoes
First there’s the kale and sweet potato soup under item 2 above. But for good old comfort food, sweet potato fries fit the bill. This spiced version gives you a chance to try some new spices, or drizzle your fries with some of your new varietal honey.
- Renee
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Labels: healthy eating, Renee
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These recipes are delicious and nutritious too.