Awaken Your Taste Buds
February is upon us and Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. What better way to show those you love, be it your sweetheart, friends, family, or even your pet, how much you appreciate them with a special menu? Here are a few of our favourite recipes for Valentine’s Day to inspire you. So, grab that apron and get cooking!
Add these red foods to your recipes for Valentine’s Day
Studies show that eating a variety of different coloured fruits and vegetables is important for our overall health and well-being. In fact, each colour contains different nutrients and vitamins to help you eat a well-balanced and nutritious diet. For example, red fruits and vegetables are full of powerful antioxidants that can help fight cancer and heart disease. Here are a few you can easily add to your breakfasts, lunches, dinners and everything in between:
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- Red peppers: sweet or spicy, red peppers contain vitamin A, which is great for the hair, skin and bones. In addition, spicy ones like Habaneros or Serranos contain capsaicin, which is known for fighting inflammation, relieving arthritis and headaches. Furthermore, sweet peppers contain more vitamin C than an orange.
- Cranberries: full of vitamin C, cranberries also contain flavonoids, known for fighting breast, lung and colon cancer. And even your four-legged pal can eat cranberries!
- Pomegranates: these exotic fruits are rich in polyphenols, known for fighting cancer and heart disease.
- Cherries: high in antioxidants vitamins A and C, cherries can help fight inflammation. While they are not in season yet, you can enjoy frozen ones.
- Tomatoes: rich in antioxidants vitamins C and A and a good source of potassium, vitamin B6, and folate, tomatoes help fight cancer and heart disease.
- Strawberries: one serving of strawberries contains more vitamin C than an orange. Strawberries can also help lower bad cholesterol levels and fight cancer.
- Raspberries: these berries contain a plant compound known for reducing inflammation and your risk for diabetes.
A few breakfast recipes for Valentine’s Day
Start your day off on a special note with a Valentine’s Day-inspired breakfast. Luckily, breakfast does not need to be elaborate to be healthy or special. For example, you can simply add fresh strawberries, raspberries and pomegranate to yogurt and granola. Or make a delicious, nutrient-rich smoothie bowl like this beet blueberry ginger one! You can also make a statement by serving these strawberry parfaits in a fancy glass. If you are feeling a bit more ambitious, try these whole-wheat crêpes with eggs and roasted red peppers. Or add roasted red peppers and spinach to an omelette! For the kiddos, these beet pancakes are a healthier take on a classic. And these adorable heart-shaped fruit skewers are sure to be a hit!
Lunches that say I love you!
Take lunch up a notch with these delicious and healthy recipes for Valentine’s Day. Try these beet and goat cheese towers or this salad with bacon roses and strawberry hearts, two lunches that are sure to impress. We also love this beet and sweet potato tartare for the special vegan in your life. Don’t forget the kiddos: this Valentine’s Day packed lunch will put a smile on their faces!
The main event
Whether you want an elaborate meal or something simpler, these seven healthy recipes for Valentine’s Day are sure to inspire you! Set the mood with cool music and candles, and voilà . . . a Valentine’s Day to remember:
- Coconut Thai Borscht
- Ahi sashimi salad
- Vegetarian beetroot leek gratin
- Spicy shrimp and citrus salad
- Seared lamb chop with raspberry marsala sauce
- Vegan red pepper and tomato pasta sauce
- Stuffed chicken breast
Don’t forget to leave room for dessert!
For a sweet (not too sweet) finish, try this delicious Chocolate Chunk Beet Ice Cream. Because it isn’t Valentine’s Day until you have had a bit of chocolate!
While holidays are often an excuse to indulge, these healthy tips and recipes should keep you on the right track. A few treats are okay, just do not go overboard on the chocolate and sweets. And remember, too much sugar is not just bad for your teeth but for your health as well. For all your dental and oral health care needs,