Healthy Holiday Tip #10

Add more color this season to your plate. Fruits and vegetables play an important part in healthy eating. So, load up on them because they are naturally fat-free, contain no sodium, and are a natural source of vitamins & minerals.

They are also full of fiber and water to help keep us feeling fuller & for long, which helps with weight maintenance, especially during the holiday season.

I have put together 3 ways to add more!

1. Serve guess or family member a simple & colorful fruit and vegetable board – pair with lean protein (cheese), healthy fats (guacamole, nuts), whole-grain crackers, or popcorn

2. Add more fruit or vegetable dishes to your meals (see below for a tasty recipe)

3. Keep it simple during the holidays by creating a build your own salad night – simply wash & prep offerings, so your family can pick and build their own salads. It’s a WIN-WIN if you ask me!

I’m also sharing this citrus twist on cranberry sauce that will add more color to your plate and you’ll want to serve it up this holiday season because it tastes so good! I have even added it to my oatmeal for breakfast!

Orange Cranberry Sauce

Ingredients:

1/2 cup sugar

1 cup water

1 (12 oz. bag) of fresh cranberries (rinsed & drained)

1 orange washed & cut in half

1/4 tsp. orange zest

Directions:

1. Stir sugar and water together in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Add cranberries and orange zest. Return to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 mins. Stirring occasionally.

2. Use half of the orange and squeeze into the cranberry mixture. Toss the orange peel into the saucepan; cook an additional 5 mins.

3. Remove orange peel & serve warm or chilled. Refrigerate any leftovers.

Photo credit: Valley Nutrition & Wellness, LLC/Jessica Clark, RD, LDN