Healthy cooking
Learning Center
Simple ways to cook healthier
Capture the flavor and retain the nutrients in foods without adding excessive amounts of fat or salt with these tips: 1. Use herbs and spices instead of salt. 2. When steaming food, use a flavorful liquid or add seasonings to the water to enhance the flavor. 3. Stir-fry a meal, since you need only a small amount of oil or cooking spray for this cooking method.
Healthy cooking make-over
Just by using healthy-cooking techniques you can cut fat and calories. Try these easy tips: 1. Use nonstick cookware to brown food without adding fat. 2. Use healthier cooking methods, such as baking, broiling, steaming, poaching and roasting. 3. Use flavor enhancers, such as herbs, spices or flavored vinegars, instead of relying on salt and fat.
Get a fiber boost
Brown rice contains more fiber and natural minerals and vitamin E than white rice does. Try it in this tasty main dish. In a large saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 cup brown rice and saute until grains turn golden brown. Slowly add 3 cups water, 1 teaspoon low-sodium chicken-flavored bouillon, 1 small onion chopped, 1/2 pound mushrooms sliced and 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg. Boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer 30 minutes. Add water as needed to keep from drying out. Cut 1/2 pound asparagus tips into 1-inch pieces. Stir into rice, cover and cook 5 minutes. Stir in 2 tablespoons finely grated Swiss cheese and garnish with fresh parsley.
An easy way to add omega-3
Want to add omega-3 to your diet but don't like fish? Try crab instead. Crab meat also has omega-3 fatty acids. Combine canned crab with citrus vinaigrette and serve over salad. Keep salt and calories low by making your own dressing. It's as easy as whisking together 1/4 cup lime or lemon juice, 1/4 cup rice wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon sugar and your favorite herbs.
A healthier take on a breakfast favorite
This healthier version of French toast makes enough for two. In a small bowl, whisk 4 egg whites with 1 teaspoon vanilla and 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg. Dip 4 slices of cinnamon bread into the mixture, coating both sides. Sprinkle with cinnamon. Using a nonstick frying pan, cook over medium heat until both sides are golden brown, about 4 to 5 minutes on each side. Serve with powdered sugar or maple syrup.
A spoonful of sugar helps the veggies go down
Looking for a new way to prepare veggies? Try glazing. Pour 1 1/2 cups water into a saucepan. Add 1/2 cup each of chopped onion, carrot, turnip and potato, all cut into 1-inch pieces. Simmer uncovered until veggies are tender and the water is almost absorbed, about 15 minutes. Sprinkle with 2 teaspoons sugar and 1 teaspoon olive oil. Turn heat up and continue to cook, shaking pan until veggies are glazed and slightly golden. Serve.
What are legumes, anyway?
Legumes are low in fat and high in fiber. Common legumes include beans, peas and lentils. Here are some tips for adding these nutritional powerhouses to your diet: 1. Add beans, peas or lentils to soups, stews, and casseroles. 2. Use pureed beans as the basis for dips and spreads. 3. Add chickpeas or black beans to salads. 4. Snack on a handful of soy nuts rather than on chips or crackers.
A new way to enjoy fresh fruit
Want a new way to enjoy fresh fruit? Make fruit kebabs. Start by placing wooden skewers in water and soaking for at least 10 minutes. Place cubed fruit, such as cantaloupe, pineapple, mango or honeydew, onto skewers. Place skewers on a baking sheet and sprinkle with brown sugar. Broil until slightly bubbly, about 2 minutes on each side.
Fit in more fruit with a smoothie
Want a new way to enjoy fruit? Make your own blueberry-banana smoothie. In a blender, add 2 fresh or frozen bananas, 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries, and 1 cup low-fat vanilla yogurt. Blend until smooth.
Veggie how to: Grilled vegetable kebabs
Want a new way to enjoy fresh vegetables? Make grilled vegetable kebabs. Brush cherry tomatoes, button mushrooms, zucchini slices, red onions and bell peppers with Italian dressing. Place onto skewers and grill over medium heat, turning often, until the vegetables are tender, about 5 to 8 minutes.
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