Snacks

Raspberry Yogurt Fiber One™ Cereal Cups

It’s January, so you’ve probably given up dessert and other foods you adore in the name of healthy eating, but skipping your favorites can backfire, causing you to ditch your efforts.  What good can come of dessert? Plenty, when there’s yogurt, fruit, and fiber involved! That’s why I love these Raspberry Yogurt Fiber One Cereal Cups for a sweet ending to a meal.

Note: I worked with Fiber One™ Original on this paid post. 

Fiber One cereal box with dessert cups filled with raspberry yogurt

Raspberry Yogurt Fiber One™ Cereal Cups

A Dessert with Benefits

Confession time: I love dessert! I indulge my sweet tooth every day, but not with just any candy, cookie, or cake.  I prefer desserts with benefits, including fiber.

According to the 2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, we struggle to include enough fiber. When you think of dessert, fiber doesn’t usually come to mind, but high-fiber desserts can help satisfy fiber requirements. The Daily Value – the recommended daily amount – for fiber is 28 grams. One Raspberry Yogurt Fiber One™ Cereal Cups contains 13 grams of fiber!

You can make these yogurt cups with any fresh or frozen berry you like. They are are delicious for a weeknight dessert, and pretty enough to serve to guests. Make the cereal cups ahead of time and add the filling when you’re ready to serve.


Foods like Fiber One™ Original Cereal make it easier to get the fiber you need, and recipes that include the cereal, including my Greek Turkey Burgers with Tzatziki Sauce, make it delicious.


How do you “flaunt your fiber?” Let me know in the comments!

Raspberry Yogurt Fiber One Cereal Cups

Say yes to dessert with this delicious, fiber-packed cereal cups!
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: fiber, Greekyogurt, raspberry
Servings: 5
Calories: 287kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 cups Fiber One TM Original cereal
  • 8 Tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries, or fruit of your choice
  • 3/4 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375˚F. Coat a 6-cup standard muffin tin with cooking spray.
  • Add cereal to a food processor and process until it is the consistency of fine crumbs, about 1 to 2 minutes. 
  • Transfer cereal to a medium mixing bowl.
  • Melt butter in microwave in a microwave-safe dish. 
  • Add melted butter and sugar to the mixing bowl. Stir until well-combined. 
  • Add a heaping ¼ cup of the cereal mixture to five of the muffin cups. Press evenly on the sides and bottom to form a cup.  
  • Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until set. Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack for 30 minutes. 
  • To make the filling, blend the raspberries and yogurt in a food processor until smooth, about 45 seconds. Transfer to a small bowl, cover, and refrigerate until ready to use. 
  • Remove the cereal cups by inverting the pan on a flat surface and tapping on the bottom of each of the muffin cups so they pop out in one piece. 
  • To serve, fill each cereal cup to the brim with the fruit mixture. Garnish with sprigs of mint, if desired.  

Notes

Nutrition Information:
Per serving: 287 calories; 6g protein; 35g carbohydrates (13% DV); 20g fat (25% DV); 12 g saturated fat (59% DV); 51mg cholesterol (4% DV); 248mg sodium (11% DV); 13 g fiber (47%) 

 

What to Make with Cereal

Photo by Peter Lewicki on Unsplash cereal strawberries milk
Photo by Peter Lewicki on Unsplash

Cereal is a delicious, nutritious food that offers a big bang for the buck. Ready-to-eat cereal with dairy milk provides a bowl of nutrients for an average of 50 cents a serving on average! Cereal is for more than pouring into a bowl and dousing with milk, however. You can eat it any time of day and in many ways. Check out what to make with cereal – you’ll be surprised at how creative my dietitian friends are!

Why cereal is a healthy choice for family meals 

Whether it’s whole grain, or refined, cereal supplies energy-producing carbohydrate. In addition, it can be a source of other nutrients that often go missing in the diet.

Whole grain choices offer the most fiber, vitamin E, and selenium, but they are not usually enriched.

Refined grains are missing one or more of their three key parts – the bran, the germ, or the endosperm. Refining a grain results in some nutrient loss. However, most refined grains are enriched.

Enriched grains contain additional B vitamins, including folic acid, and the mineral iron. Iron and folic acid don’t occur naturally in significant amounts in whole grains, but they are welcome additions to refined grains, especially cereal.

Health experts recommend that women in their childbearing years get adequate folic acid every day. Adequate folic acid helps prevent neural tube defects during the first month of pregnancy. A serving of enriched cereal can provide as much as 100% of the Daily Value for folic acid.

The added iron in enriched cereal is a good source of this nutrient. Iron is needed to prevent iron deficiency anemia, which can result in long lasting fatigue, and other health problems.

Why it’s OK to eat refined grains

Does eating cereal cause weight gain?

You may be surprised to hear that grains of all kinds, including cereal, can be good for your waistline. An eating pattern that includes higher amounts of a variety of grains is associated with a healthier body weight.

Choose cereals with the least added sugar, which contributes additional calories. Save sugar-laden cereals for a treat, not an everyday food.

How to eat less added sugar

What to make with cereal for family meals 

Since I think cereal is good any time of day, I’ve divided up the delicious healthy recipes with cereal into two groups: sweet and savory. Enjoy them at any meal, or for a snack!

Sweet healthy recipes to make with cereal

Coconut Fruit Tart by Live Best

Coconut Fruit Tart by Live Best

Peanut Butter and Chocolate Cereal Nachos by Jill Weisenberger

Peanut Butter and Chocolate Cereal Nachos by Jill Weisenberger

Strawberry Banana Breakfast Popsicles by The Nutritionist Reviews

Strawberry Banana Breakfast Popsicles by The Nutritionist Reviews

Cinnamon Buckwheat Granola by Foods with Judes

Cinnamon Buckwheat Granola by Foods with Judes

No Added Sugar Fruit and Nut Bread by Better Is the New Perfect

No Added Sugar Fruit and Nut Bread by Better Is the New Perfect

Almond Pistachio Cocoa Bites by Amy Gorin

Almond Pistachio Cocoa Bites by Amy Gorin

Flourless Milk & Cereal Pancakes by Sinful Nutrition

Flourless Milk & Cereal Pancakes by Sinful Nutrition

Sweet and Spicy Peanut Trail Mix by National Peanut Board

Sweet and Spicy Peanut Trail Mix by National Peanut Board

Grab-and-Go Granola Bars by Liz’s Healthy Table

Grab-and-Go Granola Bars by Liz's Healthy Table

Protein Packed Chocolate Cereal Bowl by Nutrition Starring You

Protein Packed Chocolate Cereal Bowl by Nutrition Starring You

Kid Friendly Smoothie Bowl by The Crowded Table

Kid Friendly Smoothie Bowl by The Crowded Table

Vanilla Maple Chia Yogurt Parfait by Julie Harrington

Vanilla Maple Chia Yogurt Parfait by Julie Harrington

Peanut Butter Cereal Bars by Better Is the New Perfect

Peanut Butter Cereal Bars by Better Is the New Perfect

Savory healthy recipes to make with cereal

Black Bean Breakfast Burrito Bowl by The Grateful Grazer

Black Bean Breakfast Burrito Bowl by The Grateful Grazer

Crispy Hummus Mashed Potato Balls by Tasty Balance Nutrition

Crispy Hummus Mashed Potato Balls by Tasty Balance Nutrition

Sweet and Spicy Popcorn Snack Mix from The Lean Green Bean

Sweet and Spicy Popcorn Snack Mix from The Lean Green Bean

Savory Oatmeal Breakfast Bowl with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Fried Egg by Jessica Levinson

Savory Oatmeal Breakfast Bowl with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Fried Egg by Jessica Levinson

Wheaties Oven Baked Ravioli by My Menu Pal

Wheaties Oven Baked Ravioli by My Menu Pal

Fonio Recipe by Laurel Ann Nutrition

Crunchy Cereal-Filled Waffles by Bonnie Taub-Dix:

easy family meals to make with cereal photo credit: Bonnie Taub-Dix

Tips for Better Snacks

Chocolate bar, computer

Snacking can be good for you if you make the right choices.

 

Adults consume 400 to 900 daily calories as snacks daily, and half of all children take in about 600 calories between meals, which is enough to qualify as a meal! Use these tips for better snacks and upgrade mini meals for more energy, better focus, and good nutrition.


It’s OK to snack. The problem is that snacks are often rich in calories, fat, and sodium, and low in nutrients.


What is a healthy snack?

It’s natural to get hungry between breakfast, lunch, and dinner, especially for young children and teens. Kids need to energy grow, and adults who skimp on meals, or skip them, need snacks, too.

Think of snacks as balanced mini-meals, not meal-wreckers. For example, when you combine cheese, whole grain crackers, and fruit, it’s OK to eat lightly at your next meal.

There’s no limit on snacks, but they should be balanced. And, you should account for snack calories as part of daily calorie needs so that you don’t eat too much. It’s easy to confuse snacks and treats.

Bowl of popcorn.

Popcorn is a whole grain and makes a healthy snack.


When kids snack at home, have them eat at the table.  Eating at a table encourages mindfulness about food.


Make protein a part of better snacks for kids and adults 

Cookies, chips, and candy temporarily curb hunger, but they aren’t particularly filling in the long run, in part because they lack protein.

Protein promotes eating satisfaction, and may contribute to easier weight control.

Protein-rich foods, such as low-fat dairy, lean meat, poultry, and seafood, also provide vitamins and minerals, including choline, iodine, and vitamin B12 for brain health. And, soy, beans, nuts, and seeds supply fiber, which we need every day.

Piece of whole grain bread spread with peanut butter.

Peanut butter and whole wheat bread is a nutrient-rich, filling snack idea.

Carbohydrates are part of healthy snacks for kids and adults

Carbohydrates are found in foods such as milk, fruit, vegetables, beans, bread, cereals, pasta, rice, and other grains, and in cookies, cakes, and other sweet foods and beverages.  

Nutritious, satisfying snacks combine protein and carbohydrates, preferably the complex kind. 

Foods rich in complex carbohydrates include whole grains, beans, fruit, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Popcorn is a whole grain. 

Raw red and yellow peppers, carrots, large leek, onion, and garlic

Fresh raw vegetables are full of fluid and help you feel fuller for longer.

 

Complex carbohydrates, including starch and fiber, take longer to digest. In addition, complex carbohydrates are generally found in foods with vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. Phytonutrients are plant compounds that support health.  

Tips for better snacks to make at home

  • Double Berry Smoothie: 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup fresh or frozen wild blueberries, 1/2 cup fresh or frozen raspberries or strawberries, 2 tablespoons milk, sweetener of your choice. Combine in food processor or blender and drink immediately.

Double Berry Smoothie is made with wild blueberries and dairy milk and yogurt.

Double Berry Smoothie

 

  • Small bowl of whole grain cereal and milk or fortified soy beverage. (Most plant milks don’t supply as much protein as dairy or soy.)

 

  • 1 serving plain one-minute oats prepared in the microwave with 8 ounces milk and topped with 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts

 

  • 4 cups low-fat microwave popcorn tossed with 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; 8 ounces milk

 

  • 1 cup canned lentil soup topped with ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese

 

  • ½ cup cottage cheese and 6 whole grain crackers

 

No Bake Oatmeal Raisin Cookies make a delicious vegan, gluten-free and no-added sugar snack.

No Bake Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are ready in 5 minutes, are vegan, gluten-free, and contain no added sugar!

 


Try these delicious smoothie recipes


 

Tips for better snacks to take on the road for hiking and walking

  • Trail mix: whole grain cereal, raisins, peanuts

 

  • ½ tuna fish or turkey sandwich on whole grain bread and a handful of cherry tomatoes

 

  • 1-2 reduced-fat mozzarella cheese sticks and 6 woven wheat whole grain crackers

 

  • 1-2 hard-cooked eggs and a 1-ounce whole grain roll

 

  • Carton of Greek yogurt and fruit

 

  • ¾ cup dry roasted edamame

    Whole almonds are a delicious, satisfying snack.

    Almonds, and other nuts, pair well with cereal and fruit for a quick snack at home or on the run.

  • 10 small whole grain pretzels and hummus

 

  • 2 tablespoons peanut butter and 10 baby carrots

Tips for better snacks for kids and adults

How to Make the Best Smoothie

Peach Melba Smoothie is a riff on the classic dessert.

Peach Melba Smoothie is a riff on the classic dessert.

Smoothies can be sugary, low-nutrient drinks, or healthy enough to serve as a meal or hearty snack. They can be bone-building beverages, particularly kid-friendly, or both! Smoothies supply fluid, and they can be healthier than soda and other sugary soft drinks. Smoothies run the gamut, so how do you make the best beverage?

I asked my nutritionist friends for their favorite drink recipes and they sent me these mouthwatering recipes! No two of these smoothies are the same. Explore all the links below, no matter what your goal.

Hydrating Smoothie Recipes

Every smoothie supplies fluid, but some have more than others. These picks are super refreshing, especially on hot days.

Carrot, Mandarin, and Cayenne Smoothie looks like sunshine in a glass

Carrot, Mandarin, and Cayenne Smoothie looks like sunshine in a glass!

Carrot Mandarin and Cayenne Smoothie from Patricia Bannan, MS, RD

Pineapple Ginger Smoothie from Nourishing Plate

Vegan Energy Boosting Smoothie from The Foodie Dietitian

strawberry lime watermelon smoothie

Strawberry Lime Watermelon Smoothie is a delicious alternative to sugary soft drinks.

Strawberry Lime Watermelon Smoothie from Smart Nutrition

Mexican Chocolate Banana Almond Shake from Spicy RD

Peanut Butter Oatmeal Smoothie from Your Choice Nutrition

Orange Strawberry Layered Smoothie from Amy Gorin Nutrition

Vegan Energy Boosting Smoothie from The Foodie Dietitian

Frozen Mochaccino from Amy Gorin Nutrition

Peanut Butter Breakfast Shake from Real Mom Nutrition

Blueberry Cheesecake Smoothie from Triad to Wellness

Here’s how to make a post-workout smoothie.

Kid-Friendly Smoothie Recipes

Kids crave smoothies, and they love to make up their own flavor combinations. Start with these recipes, and let children and teens create their own sippers.

Strawberry Beet Smoothie

Strawberry Beet Smoothie is pretty in pink!

Strawberry Beet Smoothie from The Crowded Table

Purple Power Smoothie from Eat Real Live Well

Basic Green Smoothie from Curing Vision

Orange Strawberry Layered Smoothie from Amy Gorin Nutrition

Mama’s Berry Smoothie from Toby Amidor Nutrition

Mexican Chocolate Banana Almond Breakfast Shake from Spicy RD

Peanut Butter Oatmeal Smoothie from Your Choice Nutrition

Grape Juice Avocado Energizing Smoothie from Amy Gorin Nutrition

Easy Summer Smoothie for the Busy Mama from Crystal Karges Nutrition

PB-Breakfast-Shake-Text

Entice your kids with this peanut butter breakfast shake. Adults love it, too!

Peanut Butter Breakfast Shake from Real Mom Nutrition

Blueberry Cheesecake Smoothie from Triad to Wellness

Pear and Pomegranate Green Smoothie from Patricia Bannan, MS, RD

Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie from Triad to Wellness

Smoothies for Snacks

Think of snacks as nutritious mini-meals, not meal wreckers. These recipes supply fruit, vegetables, and protein, so you won’t have to worry if you, or your child, eats less at the next meal.

Arugula apple smoothie

Arugula meets apple in this smoothie and it’s spectacular!

Arugula Apple Smoothie from Snacking in Sneakers

Creamy Chocolate Cannellini Bean and Cinnamon Smoothie from Patricia Bannan, MS, RD

Wild Blueberry Beet Smoothie from Kroll’s Korner

Mama’s Berry Smoothie from Toby Amidor Nutrition

Chocolate Chunk Blueberry Smoothie from Patricia Bannan, MS, RD

Bone-Building Beverages

Smoothies are perfect for including the nutrients to make and maintain a strong skeleton, such as protein, calcium, and vitamin D.

frozen mochaccino smoothie

Frozen Mochaccino has no added sugar, unlike most coffee-shop drinks that may contain more than a day’s allowance.

Frozen Mochaccino from Amy Gorin Nutrition

Chocolate Chunk Blueberry Smoothie from Patricia Bannan, MS, RD

Mama’s Berry Smoothie from Toby Amidor Nutrition

Wild Blueberry Pancake Smoothie from Snacking in Sneakers

Blueberry Cheesecake Smoothie from Triad to Wellness

St. Patrick’s Day Green Smoothie from Foods with Judes

Creamy Chocolate Cannellini Bean and Cinnamon Smoothie from Patricia Bannan, MS, RD

how to make the best smoothies

No-Bake Oatmeal Raisin Cookies (no added sugar, gluten-free, vegan)

No-bake no added sugar gluten-free vegan oatmeal raisin cookies on cutting board.

No-Bake Oatmeal Raisin Cookies (No added sugar)

There’s nothing wrong with cookies as part of a balanced eating plan, but you should get more than calories, added sugar, and unhealthy fats when you eat them.  With 8 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber, No-Bake Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, which have no added sugar, are vegan, and happen to be gluten-free, are a better way to satisfy your sweet tooth! 

Why You Should Make No-Bake Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

My idea of a delicious cookie recipe is combination of oats, peanut butter, raisins, and pure vanilla extract.  Raisins make these cookies naturally sweet, and they need no added sugar. In addition, these cookies vegan and gluten-free when you use gluten-free oats.  


No-Bake Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are also 100% whole grain and help to satisfy the suggestion from nutrition experts to eat at least three servings of whole grains daily.  


I love the ease of making these cookies. They are ready to eat in about 5 minutes, and one batch is often enough to last the week.  That’s important for busy people who can’t spend a lot of time in the kitchen preparing healthy foods, but want to improve their eating habits. 

 

uncooked oatmeal oats

Oatmeal is a whole grain that adds fiber and other nutrients.

creamy peanut butter on a spoon

Peanut butter is packed with healthy fat and helps hold these no-bake cookies together.

plain raisins on a white background

Raisins are sweet, but they contain no added sugar!

Healthy Breakfast Cookies for Kids 

We usually think of cookies as snacks or dessert, but they work for the morning meal, too! You eat breakfast for dinner, so why not cookies for breakfast?


Cookies for breakfast are a big hit with kids, and they will love having them as snacks or desserts, too!


If you don’t like cereal, eggs, or other traditional “morning foods” for breakfast, or you don’t have time to eat before leaving the house, these cookies are for you. One No-Bake Oatmeal Raisin Cookie paired with milk, fortified unsweetened soy beverage, or a carton of yogurt and a piece of fruit makes a balanced morning meal.

5 no-bake oatmeal raisin cookies on parchment paper

No-Bake Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are OK to eat any time of day!

 

No-Bake Oatmeal Raisin Cookies (no added sugar, gluten-free, vegan)

These cookies are ready in minutes, require no cooking, and are delicious for breakfast or snacks!
Prep Time5 minutes
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: cookies, glutenfree, no added sugar, peanutbutter, raisins
Servings: 10
Calories: 292kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 cups California raisins
  • 1 cup peanut butter, no sugar added
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 2 cups uncooked oats, toasted*

Instructions

  • Place raisins, peanut butter, and vanilla extract in food processor. Blend on HIGH until well combined, about 45 seconds.  The mixture will resemble a paste. 
  • Place the raisin mixture in a medium bowl. Add oatmeal and combine well, using your hands, if necessary.  Form into 10 cookies or balls. 
  • Store in airtight container.

How to Toast Oats

  • To toast oats, preheat oven to 350˚F. Spread the oats evenly on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes. Cool for 5 minutes before using. You can save time by skipping this step.

Notes

Per serving (1 cookie): 292 calories; 8 grams protein; 39 grams carbohydrate; 5 grams fiber; 14 grams fat (2 grams saturated fat); 0 milligrams cholesterol; 164 milligrams sodium; 60 milligrams calcium.

 

No-bake oatmeal raisin cookies pinterest graphic

No-Bake Vegan Bean and Peanut Butter Treats

As a dietitian, and lover of all things sweet, this no-bake vegan bean and peanut butter treats recipe checks all the boxes for me!

Vegan peanut butter and peanut heart-shaped dessert on Love napkin.

Nothing says “love” like a healthy, delicious dessert.

Healthy, no-bake dessert recipe 

The best thing about vegan recipes is that you don’t have to be vegan to enjoy them. (Also, you can eat the raw dough!)

No-Bake Vegan Bean and Peanut Butter Treats are perfect for everyone because they’re delicious, energizing, and heart-healthy.  And, if made with certified gluten-free oats, this vegan treat is gluten-free, too.

Children can help form the dough into hearts. Or, if it’s easier for them, they can form the dough into balls and dunk them into the chocolate.


Click here for a flourless Easy Black Bean Brownie recipe!

Small bowls of white beans, uncooked oats, peanuts

White beans, oats, and peanuts are the basis of these treats.

 

No-Bake Vegan Bean and Peanut Butter Treats

Peanut butter, white beans, and oatmeal combine to make a delicious sweet vegan treat that can be gluten-free, too. 
Prep Time30 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: beans, glutenfree, peanutbutter, ValentinesDay, vegan
Servings: 18
Calories: 124kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 cup oatmeal, uncooked
  • 1 15-oz. can white beans or chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup
  • 1 1/2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips (vegan and gluten-free, if desired)
  • 3 Tbsp. finely chopped peanuts

Instructions

  • Place all the ingredients except the chocolate chips and peanuts in a food processor.  Blend until the mixture is well-combined, about 3 minutes, pausing to scrape down the sides of the processor.  Leave the dough in the food processor and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
    Place the dough on a large cutting board and press into a 9-inch square that’s about 1/2-inch thick. Use a medium heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut the dough into hearts.*  
    Combine the remaining dough and press into a 1/2-inch thick piece. Cut dough into hearts until you have 18, and place hearts on a wire cooling rack on top of a cutting board.
    To decorate, melt the chocolate in the microwave or in a double boiler and  drizzle on the hearts. Sprinkle with chopped peanuts and allow the chocolate to harden before eating. Refrigerate leftovers.

Nutrition Information: Per serving: 124 calories; 5 grams fat (1 gram saturated fat); 0 cholesterol; 82 milligrams sodium; 16 grams carbohydrate; 3 grams fiber; 4 grams protein.

    Notes

    *Note: You can also shape the dough into 18 balls. Dip half of each ball into the melted chocolate and coat with peanuts. Place on wax paper to harden.
    Plate of vegan bean and peanut butter no-bake treats

    They’re vegan, so you can pick at the batter without worries!

     

    What to Do When You Fail at Meal Prep

    Confession: My idea of meal prep is making a double batch of chili. I know that I should prepare more food on Saturdays and Sundays for the week ahead, but I can’t get myself to devote the time to that task, however worthy.  I am good at stocking my kitchen with nutritious foods and making healthy meals and snacks, so I figure I’m doing something right. Still, getting advice from a pro about what to do when you fail at meal prep couldn’t hurt.

    HealthyMealPrep_FINALCOVER

    Why Should I Meal-Prep?

    In my quest to improve my meal prep skills, I headed for Toby Amidor’s latest creation, The Healthy Meal Prep Cookbook. Not only does this registered dietitian/nutritionist and working single mother of three prepare delicious and nutritious food ahead of time, she found the energy to write about it so that we can, too.

    According to Toby, you (and I) should invest in meal prep because it saves time and money; it’s easier to control portions, which helps promote weight control; and you’ll avoid take-out food and processed products to get a meal on the table fast.

    If you’ve never prepped meals before or want to be better at it, you can’t go wrong with The Healthy Meal Prep Cookbook.  There are more than 100 recipes to choose from, designed with simple-to-find ingredients, including Apple Walnut Loaf, Slow-Cooker Three Bean Chili, Arugula Salad with Salmon, and Mason Jar Key Lime Parfaits.

    Have I mentioned the two-week meal plans for those interested in Clean Eating, Weight Loss, and Muscle Building? You’ll have no excuse not to shop for nutritious foods when you see Toby’s detailed ingredient lists to make following these plans a breeze.


    Check out Toby Amidor’s blog! 


    meal prep with healthy foods

    Now, that’s some kind of meal prep! Doesn’t this look delicious? (Photo courtesy of Nat & Cody Gantz)


    Don’t let these meal prep myths hold you back from trying to do better!


    Easy, Healthy, and Delicious Recipes 

    Even if don’t completely embrace meal prep, nobody’s stopping you from enjoying Toby’s delicious recipes. That’s what I do! I’ve read The Healthy Meal Prep Cookbook, nodding my head in agreement at what Toby recommends, but the fact remains that while I like the idea of having meals ready to eat at a moment’s notice, I prefer more flexibility at meal time. (Read: I am in no way as organized as Toby.)

    I have been feeding a family of five for years, so I do have some kitchen skills, which I allude to at the beginning of this post. I mostly know what I’m making during the week, and I shop regularly for food so I always have nutritious ingredients on hand.

    17 Meals You Can Make in Less Than 5 Minutes

    Here are some of my favorite “fast food” ideas.

    Breakfast/Snack

    • Top a 2-ounce whole-wheat bagel with 2 tablespoons peanut butter, almond butter, or sunflower seed butter. Serve with 8 ounces 1% low-fat milk or fortified soy milk, and fruit.

    • Spread 2 slices whole grain bread with 2 tablespoons sunflower seed butter, and top with 1 small banana, sliced, or 2 tablespoons raisins.

    • Scramble 2 eggs and divide equally between a small whole-wheat pita pocket that’s been cut in half. Add salsa, a handful of spinach, and 1⁄4 cup shredded reduced-fat cheese, if desired. Pair with 8 ounces milk or fortified soy milk.

    • Scramble 2 eggs with 1⁄4 cup diced mushrooms, and 1⁄4 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese. Serve with 2 slices whole-wheat toast, and fruit.

    • Pair 1 hard-cooked egg with 8 ounces low-fat yogurt, 1 slice whole-grain toast, and fruit.

    • Halve a cantaloupe or honeydew melon, remove the seeds, and fill with 1 cup cottage cheese or low-fat yogurt. Serve with a whole wheat roll.

    Lunch/Dinner

    • Microwave a medium white potato. Scoop out the insides and mix with 1 cup cottage cheese. Return the filling to the potato skins and warm in the microwave. Add a green salad.

    • Top 1 whole-wheat pita round covered with tomato sauce with sliced part-skim mozzarella cheese. Broil until cheese melts. Serve with 8 ounces 100% orange juice.

    • Make a quick quesadilla using two whole-wheat 7-inch sandwich wraps, 2 ounces chopped leftover chicken, and 1 ounce Monterey Jack cheese. Grill in a skillet. Enjoy with fruit.

    • In a bowl, layer 1 cup cooked whole-grain couscous, 1 cup cooked vegetables, and 4 ounces cooked leftover salmon, or canned or pouched salmon.

    • Arrange 4 ounces canned or pouched, drained tuna, 10 whole-grain crackers, and sliced red bell pepper, and enjoy.

    haddock topped with chopped tomatoes on plate

    My go-to fish meal: breaded haddock topped with a can of undrained chopped tomatoes and dried parsley with vegetables and whole grain bread. That’s dinner!

    • Mix 1 cup canned reduced-sodium lentil soup and 1 cup cooked pasta or other leftover cooked grain such as farro, brown rice, freekeh, or quinoa. Serve with 8 ounces milk or fortified soy milk and fruit.

    • Combine 1 cup canned white beans, drained, with 1 tablespoon olive oil and 4 ounces peeled and raw shrimp in a skillet. Cook until shrimp are pink. Serve with fruit or vegetables.

    • Saute 1⁄2 pound 100% ground skinless turkey breast meat or 95% lean ground beef with chopped onions and 1⁄2 teaspoon ground cumin. Spoon cooked meat equally onto 2 whole-wheat tortillas along with chopped tomato, lettuce, and plain yogurt. (This dish serves two.) Serve with fruit or vegetables.

    • Coat 4 ounces thinly sliced chicken breasts or tenders with flour. Heat 1 tablespoon canola oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for about two minutes on each side. Place chicken on a whole-wheat sandwich bun and garnish with tomato and lettuce, and avocado, if desired. Serve with 8 ounces milk and a piece of fruit.

    • Quick fried rice: Heat 2 teaspoons canola oil in a medium skillet. Add 1 cup cold cooked white or brown rice, 1⁄4 cup chopped onion, 1⁄4 cup cooked peas or diced carrots or both, and 2 beaten eggs. Toss the entire mixture until the egg is cooked. Season with a dash of low-sodium soy sauce. Serve with fresh fruit.

    • Place 4 ounces cooked shrimp, canned or pouch tuna, cooked or pouch salmon, cottage cheese, or tofu, on top of 2 cups chopped leafy greens and 1⁄2 cup grape tomatoes. Top with a mixture of 2 teaspoons olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Serve with  whole-grain bread or roll.


    5 Stress-Free Family Meals


    How to Shop for Must-Have Kitchen Staples 

    Whether or not you plan your meals out to the last green bean, it’s a good idea to have nutritious foods on hand to rustle up healthy meals and snacks in minutes. Here’s a list that you can tailor to your needs.

    cottage cheese, eggs, greek yogurt, beets, tofu

    A few must-have items from my refrigerator.

     

    Refrigerator/Freezer Items

    • Eggs

    • Plain yogurt, Greek or regular

    • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts

    • Grated hard cheese, such as cheddar and Monterey Jack

    • 95% lean ground beef

    • Ground 100% turkey breast meat

    • Low-fat cottage cheese

    • Milk

    • Tofu

     

    edamame, frozen shrimp, frozen wild blueberries, frozen channa masala

    Frozen staples to keep on hand for healthy meals.


    How to take steps to get better at meal planning


    • Frozen fish fillets, frozen shrimp

    • Frozen plain fruit and fruit canned in its own juice

    • Frozen plain vegetables and no-salt added canned vegetables


    Recipe: Tuna Burgers with Smashed Avocado and Tomato are ready in 20 minutes!


    Pantry Items

    • Canned or pouched tuna or salmon

    • Canned diced tomatoes

    • Canned pineapple

    • Canned beans, such as garbanzo, black beans, and cannelloni

    • Whole grain cereal, bread (such as pita and Naan), and grains, such as pasta, quinoa, and freekeh

    • Pasta (marinara) sauce and pizza sauce

    • Peanuts, pistachios, almonds, walnuts, cashews

    • Dried fruit, such as California raisins

    • Peanut butter, almond butter or sunflower seed butter


    Recipe: It takes just 5 minutes to make No-Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars


    canned tomatoes, beans, tuna fish, peanut butter, tomato sauce, pouched salmon

    I couldn’t get by without foods from cans, jars, and pouches!

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Maple Walnut Pumpkin Donuts

    I love coffee-shop donuts as much as the next person, and maybe more. I don’t eat them very often because while they taste good going down, donuts usually bother my stomach afterwards. When I crave a hunk of sugary fried dough, I turn to baked Maple Walnut Pumpkin Donuts instead because they offer way more – and far less – than typical coffee shop choices.

    maple walnut pumpkin donuts

    Maple Walnut Pumpkin Donuts are a better choice for donut-lovers.

    Maple pumpkin donuts with nuts are healthier

    Donuts, including all the variations on pumpkin and maple offered at supermarkets, convenience stores, and coffee shops, supply little in the way of nutrition. Most store-bought donuts are fried, which jacks up the calorie and fat content.

    Here’s how one of my maple walnut pumpkin donuts stacks up to a vanilla frosted donut (the closest I could find to my donut for the sake of comparison) from a national coffee shop chain.

    My better-for-you version has:

    • 212 calories versus 270 calories in the commercial donut.

    • 1/3 the saturated fat.

    • 3 times the dietary fiber, thanks to whole wheat flour and canned pumpkin puree

    • 64% of the Daily Value (DV) for vitamin A, primarily from pumpkin.

    • Nearly 900 milligrams of potassium, about 20% to 30% of what most adults need for the entire day, largely from the pumpkin.

    •1 serving of whole grains (Experts recommend at least 3 servings of whole grains daily.)

    Donuts are not generally known for their health benefits, but this recipe is different.  It’s good to know that you’re getting so much in the way of nutrition along with great taste.

    Maple Walnut Pumpkin Donuts

    These baked maple walnut pumpkin donuts are delicious and nutritious.
    Prep Time10 minutes
    Cook Time15 minutes
    Total Time25 minutes
    Course: Breakfast
    Cuisine: American
    Keyword: donutswithnuts, healthydonuts, maplewalnut, pumpkindonuts
    Servings: 12
    Calories: 212kcal
    Author: ewardrd

    Ingredients

    • 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
    • 1 teaspoon baking soda
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
    • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1 cup plain canned pumpkin puree
    • 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
    • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
    • 3/4 cup plain fat-free Greek yogurt
    • 2 tablespoons canola oil
    • 1 cup powdered sugar
    • 2 tablespoons milk
    • 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts

    Instructions

    • Preheat oven to 350˚F. Coat two standard donut pans with cooking spray.
    • In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
    • In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs, and add the pumpkin, 1/2 cup of the maple syrup, vanilla, yogurt, and oil. Mix until well combined.
    • Add the pumpkin mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until combined. Don’t overmix.
    • Spoon the batter into the donut pans, filling to about 1/4″ shy of the rim, and making sure the center post is clear.
    • Bake for 12 to 14 minutes. Remove donuts from oven and allow to cool in the pan for 5 minutes on a wire rack. Remove donuts from pan and cool further.
    • To make the glaze, sift the powdered sugar into a small bowl. Add the 2 tablespoons of maple syrup and the milk and stir until smooth. Frost each donut and top with chopped walnuts.
      NOTE: For less added sugar, omit the glaze, and add the walnuts to the batter. If desired, coat warm donuts in maple sugar or a sugar-cinnamon mixture.

    Notes

    Per donut: 212 calories; 7 grams fat (1 gram saturated fat); 36 milligrams cholesterol; 220 milligrams sodium; 35 grams carbohydrate; 3 grams fiber; 5 grams protein

    maple walnut pumpkin donuts on a wire rack.

    For less added sugar, skip the glaze and add the nuts to the donut batter.

    Can’t get enough pumpkin? Try this Pumpkin Spice Smoothie and these Pumpkin Muffins with Almond Flour.

    maple walnut pumpkin donuts pinterest

    Easy Flourless Black Bean Brownies

    Warning: Rave ahead. As in I can’t stop raving about these easy flourless black bean brownies that are also gluten-free!

    Black bean brownie topped with raspberries and melted chocolate on a white plate.

    The health benefits of beans

    This might come as a surprise: beans are vegetables and they are bursting with nutrition. Beans supply several nutrients including protein and potassium, and they contain phytonutrients, which are plant compounds that protect your cells against damage.

    Black beans, and other legumes, also contribute fiber to your eating plan. Fiber feeds the beneficial gut bacteria that support your immune system and help prevent you from getting sick from a virus or bacteria.


    Fruits and vegetables can make indulgences like brownies, bars, and cookies better for you, even when the baked goods contain added sugar.


    Why beans are a good ingredient substitute for baking

    You can use beans to replace some of the fat and flour when baking, and enhance the texture of baked goods, like these brownies. I have nothing against fat or flour, however. I just like to bake with beans sometimes!

    I love desserts that have more to offer more than calories, and these brownies are one of them. The black beans and the raspberries pump up the fiber content to 10 grams per serving, which is more than 25% of your daily fiber needs! Along with the eggs, beans also contribute protein, so that a serving has 7 grams, which, along with fiber, helps you to feel satisfied.

    I top my brownies with raspberries because they are delicious, beautiful, and nutritious. Raspberries supply vitamin C, fiber, phytonutrients, and so much more. And, raspberries provide natural sweetness so you can use less added sugar in baked goods.

    Flourless black bean brownies topped with raspberries and melted dark chocolate on a wire rack.


    These easy flourless black bean brownies take less than 40 minutes to prepare from start to finish. While they look special enough for a celebration, they’re also easy enough to make any time.


    Easy Flourless Black Bean Brownies

    Delicious, easy, flourless black brownies topped with fresh raspberries.
    Prep Time10 minutes
    Cook Time25 minutes
    Course: Dessert
    Cuisine: American
    Keyword: blackbeanbrownies, flourlessbrownies, glutenfreebrownies
    Servings: 8

    Ingredients

    • 1 15-oz can black beans, drained and rinsed (about 1 3/4 cups)
    • 3 Tbsp. + 1 tsp. canola oil
    • 2 large eggs
    • 2/3 cup sugar
    • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
    • 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
    • 1/2 tsp. baking powder
    • 1/2 tsp. salt
    • 1/2 cup + 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips*
    • 1 1/2 cups fresh raspberries, washed and dried

    Instructions

    • Preheat oven to 350˚F.  Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
    • Place the beans and 3 tablespoons of oil in a food processor. Process on high until smooth, about 2 to 3 minutes.  
    • Add the eggs, sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract and blend well.  
    • Add the baking powder and salt and blend for 10 seconds more. 
    • Stir in 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips.
    • Pour the batter into prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20 to 22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.  Remove the brownies and allow to cool on a wire rack for 30 minutes.
    • Top the brownies with the raspberries, forming a single layer.
    • Combine the remaining teaspoon of canola oil and the remaining 1/3 cup chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl.  Microwave until chips are melted, about 20 to 30 seconds, stopping to stir once.  
    • Immediately drizzle the chocolate mixture on top of the raspberries. Allow the chocolate to harden for at least 10 minutes before cutting into 8 equal pieces.
      * You can also use white chocolate chips for the topping, if desired.

    Notes

    Per serving (1/8 of recipe): 
    319 calories; 15 grams fat (5 grams saturated fat); 48 milligrams cholesterol; 324 milligrams sodium; 46 grams carbohydrate; 10 grams fiber; 8 grams protein

    Flourless black bean brownies topped with raspberries and melted white chocolate

    You can also substitute white chocolate chips for dark, if you like. Here’s a post about using the ingredients you have on hand.

    Two black bean brownies topped with fresh raspberries on white plates on a gray background.

     

     

     

    No Added Sugar Shamrock Shake (vegan)

    vegan matcha green smoothie shake

    Fast food green drinks are fun to sip, especially around St. Patrick’s day, but they are usually overly sweet and low on nutrition. If you’re looking for a healthier beverage, this no added sugar shamrock shake is for you.

    This delicious drink supplies one and a half servings of fruits and vegetables, nine grams of fiber, calcium, heart-healthy fat, and much more, and it gets some of its vibrant color from matcha. 

    What is matcha? 

    Matcha is ground green tea that’s typically used to make a hot beverage. As a powder, matcha is potent and a little goes a long way in terms of flavor and color.

    Does matcha have health benefits? 

    Matcha and other green tea contains antioxidants that may fight cancer.  Drinking green tea on a regular basis is linked to lower blood pressure and lower levels of LDL, or bad, cholesterol in the blood.

    However, there’s not much research on matcha itself. Even though matcha is a type of green tea, experts aren’t sure that it has the same effects as other green tea on health.

    Does matcha have caffeine? 

    Matcha contains caffeine, but relatively low levels. As a result, this no added sugar shamrock shake provides a gentle energy lift, rather than a jolt.

    different kinds of matcha green tea powder

    I use McCormick Gourmet Organic Matcha Green Tea with Ginger Seasonings*.  It supplies about 4 milligrams of caffeine per serving, which is the same amount of caffeine as 12 ounces of decaffeinated coffee.

    vegan matcha green smoothie with a bowl of matcha powder

    When you make the smoothie with regular matcha, the caffeine content is about 50 milligrams, which is still far less than coffee. For example, 16 ounces of Starbucks coffee has 330 milligrams caffeine.

    I hope you enjoy this better-for-you drink that you can make with a soy beverage so that it’s vegan, or with dairy milk. It’s your choice!

    No Added Sugar Shamrock Shake

    A delicious and nutritious version of sugary fast food milkshakes.
    Prep Time5 minutes
    Cook Time0 minutes
    Course: Snack
    Cuisine: American
    Keyword: banana, greensmoothie, milkshake, shamrockshake, vegansmoothie
    Servings: 1

    Ingredients

    • 1/2 cup baby spinach or kale
    • 1/2 medium frozen banana, sliced
    • 1/2 pitted ripe avocado, sliced
    • 1/2 cup unsweetened fortified soy beverage or 1% low fat milk
    • 1/2 tsp. matcha

    Instructions

    • Place all the ingredients in a blender or food processor. 
    • Blend on high speed for 1 to 2 minutes or until smooth.
    • Pour into a glass and drink immediately.

    Notes

    Nutrition information: 281 calories; 16 grams fat (3 grams saturated fat); 6 milligrams cholesterol; 76 milligrams sodium; 32 grams carbohydrate; 9 grams fiber; 8 grams protein

    *I did not receive compensation or product from McCormick or Organic Living Superfoods and they are not my clients.

    green match smoothie drink

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