Monday, March 16, 2020

Top 10 Healthy Green Foods

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green vegetables and herbs
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These super nutritious vegetables and powerhouse ingredients are packed with health benefits and flavor.

1. Cruciferous greens (kale, collards, Swiss chard)
These “super” veggies are at the top of the list because they have no other job than to improve your health. They are loaded with fiber, calcium, magnesium, and chlorophyll. The simplest way to enjoy these leafy veggies is to steam them, sauté them or add them raw into juices, smoothies, and soups. Try a new leafy vegetable each week and then rotate them on a regular basis.

2. Fresh green herbs (dill, parsley, basil)
Fresh herbs in the spring and summer will lift up your meals and give them a boost, not only in flavor but nutritionally as well. I always try to put parsley into my green juices, salads or chopped on whole grains. Fresh herbs like dill are a wonderful accent to dips and soups. And use basil to make pesto – nothing beats the taste of it homemade!

3. Living greens (mung beans, broccoli, and sunflower sprouts)
Sprouts are nutritional powerhouses loaded with enzymes, protein, and fiber. They’re a living food, so it will add a unique burst of freshness to your meal. Toss them into salads, sandwiches or even alongside cooked grains, stir-fries and soups.

4. Spicy greens (arugula and mustards)
The spicy greens have a peppery and nutty flavor. They contain a rich source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and vitamin A. They’re also a rich source of calcium. They will certainly add a zesty kick to your meal and help with digestion. Try adding them into your next salad or side dish.

5. Asparagus
This vegetable is the green spear of the spring. It has a long rich stalk that is an incredible source of fiber. The tips are loaded with vitamin K, vitamin C, and iron. Asparagus tastes amazing steamed, but make sure you don’t overcook – you want to keep them green, not brown.

6. Green pods (snap peas, snow peas, and garden peas)
The tender sweet crunch of snap peas, snow peas, and garden peas are a sure sign of spring. They are loaded with protein and fiber and help to balance blood sugar levels. They are incredibly delicious in salads, stir-fries or just ready to munch out of a bowl.

7. Avocado
If you are not in love with the rich creamy texture of avocados yet, maybe their health benefits will entice you. They’re an extremely rich source of omega-3 fats, protein, vitamin E and antioxidants that protect the skin, heart, and blood. They also taste amazing in just about anything from smoothies to desserts, sandwiches, salads, and dips. You can even mash up an avocado and put it on your skin for a rejuvenating face mask.

8. Green apples and kiwi
Green apples and kiwis are tart and slightly sour. They offer your taste buds a fresh unique flavor than most sweet fruits. They’re great for cleansing and balancing blood sugar levels. Try slicing them up for a mid-afternoon snack or evening dessert.

9. Green powders (chlorella, spirulina and barley grass)
Green powders may just be the easiest way to detox and go green this spring, as they provide top quality minerals and nutrients. All you need is 1 tsp to add into your water and sip throughout the day or try blending them into your daily smoothie.

10. Green juices
This is the ultimate way to go green. Choose from a variety green leafy vegetables, celery, cucumber, green apple and pear. As you’re making the homemade juice, save your pulp and use leftovers for a cracker or muffin recipe. That is the ultimate way to go green – reuse as much of the vegetable as you can!

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