They say that variety is the spice of life.
Why not add some umph to your meal routine by adding some healthy alternatives to your plate? This is the perfect way for you and your loved ones to bond in the kitchen, not to mention the nutritional benefits that a diverse meal plan can provide.
Some of the benefits of a diverse diet include:
- Improves Digestion – your digestive system requires a varied diet to function properly. Eating a diverse range of foods will help to improve gut health, decrease inflammation and improve the absorption of key nutrients.
- Higher intake of essential nutrients – Food offers a unique blend of nutrients. Including a variety of foods in your diet is one of the best ways to receive the antioxidants, vitamins and minerals you need to maintain a healthy immune system.
- Cooking becomes more fun – Learning about different foods and how to prepare them can be an adventure. Experimenting in the kitchen is also a good way to get your kids involved and encourage them to develop an open mind about trying new foods and flavours.
Why not try something new that could brighten up your day and help boost your immune system?
Here are a few healthy alternative foods and ideas for some inspiration.
Wild Rice
Wild rice, one of the Future 50 Foods, has a great-tasting flavour and plenty of nutrients to enrich your meal. It is relatively high in protein, dietary fibre, and low in fat. Like traditional rice, it does not contain gluten. It is also a good source of certain minerals and B vitamins. The earthy, nutty tasting grain goes especially well with our KNORR Peri-Peri sauce, peppers and some mushrooms to create a delicious vegan dish with a kick.
See how to make the dish here.
Pumpkin Leaves
Pumpkin leaves have a healthy amount of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Calcium, and Iron. Due to the high concentration of vitamins, pumpkin leaves boost the immune system, something that we could all use during this worldwide health pandemic. Paired with Knorr’s Tomato Base Dry Cook-In Sauce, you can create a delicious Pumpkin Leaf Sishebo for you and your family.
Cowpeas
The cowpea, commonly known as the black-eyed pea, is the perfect autumn bean. It can be used in a variety of stews, soups, purees and casseroles, but the most common way to eat them is in curries. The seeds are a rich source of proteins and calories, as well as minerals and vitamins. When paired with Knorr Chakalaka Soup, it’s the perfect way to enter the colder months.
Try a delicious Spicy Cowpea Soup recipe.
Adding some variety to your meal plan has benefits to your health and is a great way to have some fun in the kitchen with your loved ones. Have a look at various Knorr recipes for more inspiration and lead your taste buds on a new adventure.
Imka Webb is a freelance digital marketing expert and the digital editor of Food & Home Entertaining magazine. www.imkawebb.com
