Although the heat of summer tends to drive us away from the kitchen stove, that doesn’t mean we must forgo optimal nutrition. As a result, this season’s Market Basket offers a wealth of options that would strike envy in the heart of any winter chef.
By combining superfoods that are now abundant in the form of fresh produce, you can increase your nutrient intake of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients that promote health and reduce the risk of disease. Indeed, all this can be accomplished while limiting your time spent over a hot stove.
Zucchini and squash, the star superfoods of summer, offer a range of health benefits, including antioxidants, vitamins C and A. They also boast a host of other anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer benefits. Vitamin C, often referred to as the “overall health vitamin”, helps your immune system fight off cardiovascular disease, eye disease and even skin-wrinkling. Vitamin A offers just as many health benefits as C, but includes better vision and cell growth. Overall, by combining your intake of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nutrients, you will increase your ability to prevent such diseases as cancer.
By combining grains such as Quinoa and Wild Rice with legumes such as Mung Beans, you can truly round out the impact of your Super Bowl.
It would be hard to overstate the health benefits of Quinoa – it is gluten-free, high in protein and one of few plant-based foods containing all nine essential amino acids. It is also high in fiber, magnesium, B-vitamins, iron, potassium, phosphorus, vitamin E, calcium and a wealth of antioxidants.
For its part, Wild Rice contains about twice as much protein as does brown rice. It contains no sodium, which is good news for one’s cardiovascular health. When it comes to cancer-fighting antioxidants, it offers up to 30 times more antioxidants than does white rice. Also containing high amounts of fiber, a host of essential minerals and vitamins (A, C, and E to be precise), you need to run, not walk, to quickly fill your pot with this gem. Simply dedicate enough time to its preparation as it takes much longer than other rice (up to an hour) to cook.
We’ve selected Mung Beans for their high protein and low caloric properties. We also think that their prerequisite vitamins and minerals will make the grade in your Super Bowl. Just consider that in 1 oz. you’ll find 0g Fat, 5g Fiber and 7g Protein (which is the equivalent of 1 hardboiled egg, or 1 oz. chicken, turkey, salmon, etc.).
Here are some delicious and nutritious Super Bowls for you to try. Many of the ingredients, including the quinoa, wild rice, roasted vegetables and dressings, can be prepared ahead of time and stored in glass containers in the refrigerator for a few days. It’s the wide range of preparation options that also makes this an extremely versatile powerhouse for optimal health.
Use organic ingredients when possible
Serves 2
Ingredients
Process
Use organic ingredients when possible
Ingredients
Process
Use organic ingredients when possible
Serves 2
Ingredients
Process
Keep fit and healthy while savoring the flavors of the summer Market Basket.
Experience Vitality Now and Be Well!
Warm regards, Peta.
(original post on boomshop)