Insider's Viewpoint: Jennifer Shea, Wellness Coach and Dietitian, Shaw's Supermarkets

Fourth of July, is one of our nation’s most distinguished holidays; it’s a day to celebrate our independence and of course, it’s a day to eat! Besides the traditional festivities including parades and marching bands, patriotic speeches and fireworks, in many ways the best part of the 4th are the picnics and barbeques.

And what better way to celebrate our country than with a culinary salute to the beautiful colors of our nation’s flag! Impress your friends and family with these patriotic recipes showcasing the red, white and blues of the summer season.

Spinach Strawberry Salad
makes: 4 servings
A brilliant salad comprised of the red, blue and white
colors of our flag atop the green of
our country’s grasslands
 
Ingredients:
Salad:

Blueberry Vinaigrette:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 clove minced garlic
  • Dash of salt
  • Dash of pepper
  • 1/4 cup blueberries
Directions:
Whisk dressing ingredients (except blueberries) thoroughly in a bowl. Add blueberries. Combine salad ingredients, toss with dressing. Enjoy!
 
Nutrition Highlights:
Blueberries: a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Blueberries may slow signs of aging due to their high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities.
Strawberries: an excellent source of Vitamin C and folate.
Spinach: an excellent source of fiber and iron and high in Vitamin A and C.
Mushrooms: low in calories and a good source of niacin and pantothenate.
Olive oil: a good source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
Almonds: packed with heart-healthy fats, an excellent source of Vitamin E, and a good source of fiber.

Cherry Berry Jubilee
makes: 4 servings
A simple and refreshing dessert that’s sure to add sparkle to your 4th celebration.
 
Ingredients:
  • 2 cups pitted, halved fresh cherries
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 1 angel food cake, torn into small chunks
  • 1/4 cup whipped light topping
  • 4 whole fresh sweet cherries with stems
  • 4 martini glasses (use plastic if away from home and picnicking)
Directions:
Mix cherries, blueberries, orange juice and sugar. Marinate for at least 1 hour. Place one chunk of angel food cake into the bottom of each martini glass. Just before serving, spoon ¾ cup cherry mixture over angel food cake in each glass. Swirl 2 tablespoons light whipped topping over each glass. Garnish with whole cherries. Cheers!
 
Nutrition Highlights:
Cherries: a good source of Vitamin C and a good source of potassium.
Blueberries: a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C.

Jennifer Shea MS, MPH, RD
Shaw’s Wellness Coach and Registered Dietitian
Shaw’s Supermarkets

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