Healthy Eating Tip: Roast Veggies for Deliciousness

In honor of National Nutrition Month®, my colleague Elizabeth Ward shares her tips to help you savor the flavor of eating right. Plus, get her recipe for Raisin Walnut Bread – oh yum!

How (and why) to Roast Vegetables

It can be challenging to include the vegetables you need at meals and snacks.  Roasting them brings out their flavor, and it’s a no-fuss way to prepare produce. For example, lightly coat a bag of baby carrots or trimmed asparagus spears with olive oil. Place on a baking sheet and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme. Roast for 15 minutes at 400˚F or until tender.

Treat Snacks like Nutritious Mini Meals

Don’t think of snacks as eating free-for-alls. Snacks should include protein-packed foods, such as dairy foods, nuts, and eggs, combined with fiber-rich choices including fruit, vegetables and whole grains. Here are some flavor-filled examples: Low-fat microwave popcorn tossed with grated Parmesan cheese; trail mix made with whole grain cereal, dried fruit, nuts, and seeds; whole grain crackers and low-fat cheese stick; and roasted soybeans (edamame).

Elizabeth Ward, MS, RD is an author, nutrition consultant and blogger. Her latest book is MyPlate for Moms, How to Feed Yourself & Your Family Better. She blogs at www.betteristhenewperfect.com.