Sunday, November 22, 2009

Spice up your Holiday.. part 3..Give select sides with specific nutrient benefit.

While the Turkey usually gets all the attention for Thanksgiving, lets highlight some great sides for the day. Some sides are not only delicious, but also can be packed with incredible nutritional benefits. Seasonal squash, pumpkins, and sweet potatoes, hold impressive amounts of beta carotene, Vitamin C and A, rich antioxidants, magnesium, calcium, potassium, and Folate acid.

You also get some veggie dishes that are high in fiber, low in saturated fats, and low in sodium. That is because they are not smothered in butter and cream sauces. So this year try a few different sides that have more nutrients and less FATS. When we get together with family and friends, we think about giving them the best because of our love for them. Let's load our tables with healthy and tasty foods, not the foods with unnecessary extras. That is a show of your love for them and their HEALTH!
Today your getting two for one!!!!

Spiced Quinoa
it can be used as something other than stuffing or an extra side.
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp powdered ginger
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 cup rinsed and drained quinoa
• 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
• 1/4 cup finely minced fresh cilantro or mint

Brown all spices in oil in large saucepan. Add quinoa and stir well. Add 2 cups boiling water, cover, simmer, until water is absorbed while stirring occasionally.
Remove from heat and let stand for a few more minutes. Add parsley and cilantro or mint. Fluff with fork and serve.

Spiced Toasted Almonds
Makes a great item to have out before the big meal.
• 2 cups raw almonds
• 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 tsp maple syrup, pure
• 1/4 tsp sea sal
• 1 tsp cinnamon                                                                            
• 1/4 cup ground ginger
Preheat oven 350 degrees. Toss the almonds with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, cinnamon, and ginger until they are coated evenly. Spread over a baking sheet evenly. Bake for 7 to 10 minutes until lightly browned and smelling delicious. Almonds will become crispy as they cool. you can even add some dried fruits (cranberries, raisins, or apricots), they are great for added texture and taste.

Have a healthy Holiday!

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