This guest blog is by Danielle Cushing. To celebrate National Whole Grain Month, let’s figure out whole grains, where to find them, and how to use them. What is a whole grain? In short, whole grains are more nutrient-rich than refined grains. Refined grains lose some of their minerals, B vitamins, and antioxidants during processing. Whole grains retain all of these and are also higher in fiber and high-quality protein. For more information about whole grains, check out the Whole Grains Council. Where in the grocery store will I find whole grains? 1. Many of your whole … [Read more...] about Celebrate National Whole Grains Month!
Meatloaf for Dinner!
Meatloaf is Comfort Food I have been eating meatloaf all my life and I bet you have, too. Lately I've gotten creative and have tried some new ingredients in my meatloaf as a way to lighten up this classic comfort food. Fresh and dried herbs and spices are normally fun to add to meatloaf, and using oatmeal instead of bread crumbs is a neat way to add a whole grain to the recipe. The meatloaf in this picture at the left has an entire 10 oz package of thawed and drained, frozen spinach in it, too. Tasty? You bet it is! Easy Spinach & Herb Meatloaf Recipe 1 pound lean ground beef 1 … [Read more...] about Meatloaf for Dinner!
A Healthier Grilled Cheese Sandwich
There's something very special about a warm, gooey and toasty grilled cheese sandwich. I guess it is true comfort food at its quickest and easiest. When I got ready to make lunch the other day, I scanned the fridge for an idea and closed it. Then I opened up the pantry for a look and closed it. Then I went back to the fridge and saw my favorite cheese calling out for me to make a grilled cheese sandwich - so, I did. Making sandwiches for kids can be very challenging so take a look at these easy-to-do ideas that will delight the youngest members of your family. Healthier Sandwiches, … [Read more...] about A Healthier Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Banana-Carrot Quick Bread Recipe
The rich nutrition of carrots is a perfect compliment to the natural sweetness of a simple banana bread. This recipe can easily be doubled to make 2 loaves and it freezes beautifully. So, next time your bananas get super ripe, give it a try! Ingredients 2 tablespoons Butter 2 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) 1/4 cup Applesauce, unsweetened 1/2 cup Sugar, white or brown 2 Eggs, large 1 cup Flour, white 1 cup Flour, whole wheat 1 teaspoon Baking … [Read more...] about Banana-Carrot Quick Bread Recipe
Pancakes Packed with Nutrition
If you're a busy person - and who isn't - then pancakes can make a great meal for you. The options are endless for what can be mixed into a pancake or what can be scattered on top of a pancake. It's a savory and nutritious pancake when you mix in sauteed onions and mushrooms, shredded cheese, or even chopped up Korean kimchi before cooking. It's a mildly sweet and nutritious pancake when you mix in blueberries, raspberries, or a mashed, ripe banana before cooking. Don't forget to sprinkle some herbs and spices into your pancakes, too. You can even get totally funky with pizza pancakes. … [Read more...] about Pancakes Packed with Nutrition
Grocery Shopping 101: Whole Grains
Why Whole Grains? Good nutrition is all about enjoyment and variety. Whole grains are a notch healthier as they provide more fiber, B-vitamins, folic acid and iron than their refined counterparts. Whole grains typically are lower in calories than other starchy foods and they can help fill you up, too. By powering up nutrients and powering down calories, you can lower blood pressure, reduce joint pain and be less susceptible to type 2 diabetes. Grocery Store Tips 1. Come to the store with a list of whole grains to try. For starters, you might try whole wheat pasta, quick-cooking … [Read more...] about Grocery Shopping 101: Whole Grains