When it comes to dinner, I love easy recipes that are family-friendly. Creating healthy meals your whole family will love can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are a few foods that work well in just about any recipe.
Tasty and nutritious, the following four foods are excellent additions to your dinner rotation this year:
- Beans: Beans have a lot of health benefits. They help you feel full for longer, and they also contain fiber. Beans contain antioxidants that protect against cancer and heart disease. If you’re trying to lose weight, avoid adding high-fat items like bacon or cheese to your beans. Instead, add a bit of vinegar or lemon juice for flavor and nutrients like vitamin C.
- Tofu: Tofu is a high protein, low calorie food that can be used in a variety of ways. It is also rich in calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and iron.
Tofu is a good source of the minerals calcium and magnesium, which contribute to the building of strong bones and teeth. Calcium also helps blood clot and keeps heart rhythm steady, while magnesium helps support muscle and nerve function, as well as energy metabolism. Iron is needed by red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body. The body does not produce its own iron, so it must be obtained from food sources or supplements. Tofu is also a good source of Iodine, an important nutrient for thyroid gland health.
- Whole grains: You should get most of your fiber from whole grains instead of refined grain products like white bread and white rice — those are empty calories with no nutritional value. Whole grains include everything from quinoa and brown rice to oatmeal and farro.
- Fish: Fish can be one of the healthiest types of meat that you can eat on a regular basis. Salmon and tuna are especially good options as both provide an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. These help promote cardiovascular health, but they also can provide an energy boost, making them a great choice for those looking to maximize their workout efforts.
