HEALTH

After you have your annual fill of stuffing andturkey and mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie, however, your body will be begging for a break.  Try a few lighter options for the week following to take it easy on your tummy.

 

Whole Wheat Pasta

 

For dinner, try whole-wheat pasta instead of more typical high-carb pasta.  Whole wheat will also add some much needed fiber to your diet.  Instead of something super heavy, try out this easy recipe for a light (but way yummy!) pasta e fagioli:

 

What you’ll need:

Olive oil

1 sweet vidalia onion

1 can great northern beans

Salt and pepper

Fresh sprigs of thyme (crushed and dried thyme works too)

1 box whole-wheat elbow macaroni (or your fave pasta shape)

Parmesan cheese

 

Sauté 1-2 tbsp. olive oil and  1-1 ½ cups chopped sweet onion over medium heat until onions become soft and sweet.  Drain and rinse the beans.  Add a few sprigs of fresh thyme, the beans, salt and pepper, and warm through.  Cook whole-wheat elbow macaroni as instructed on the box. Drain and return to pan. Add onion and bean mixture  as well as several tablespoons of uncooked olive oil. Add salt and pepper to taste and mix well.  Serve with grated Parmesan cheese. Add tomatoes to the beans if you like!

 

Everyone says salads are a healthy option, but bowls of iceberg lettuce covered in Caesar dressing aren’t quite as good for you as you might think.  Iceberg lettuce is mostly water and thus not so nutritious.  For a healthier alternative, try some crispy romaine lettuce, a spring mix or baby spinach. Top it with your fave diced veggies, fruits, nuts and cheese for a tasty lunch.  Be creative!  I love apples or pears with candied pecans.  Dried cranberries and mandarin oranges are delish, too!

Instead of a fattening, creamy dressing, try a light balsamic vinaigrette or a little olive oil and balsamic vinegar.  Yum!

 

When you’re getting the munchies, stop!  Don’t reach for that bag of chips. Curb your appetite with plain old fruits and veggies.  If ya don’t like them by themselves, try adding a little hummus or peanut butter for some extra flavor instead of dip or dressing.  It’s a bit healthier and still super tasty.

by Kristen Yeung | 2/1/2016