For some reason, most of us think of fruits and vegetables as two independent ‘teams’ in the mission to get Americans eating more healthfully. There is no doubt that everything ‘counts’ where the consumption of fruits and vegetables is concerned. But, for something a bit more interesting, try combining fruits and vegetables into a creative, zany, and delicious dish.
When combining fruits and vegetables, it helps to think like an artist and consider color, texture, flavor, and seasonal favorites. Remember that fruits and vegetables can be found in the fresh, canned, and frozen aisles of the supermarket, and there are loads of choices available. Good luck inventing a yummy and artistic fruit-vegetable creation!
Try these for starters:
- Add sliced strawberries to your next spinach and mushroom salad for a delicious flavor treat. For dressing, try fresh squeezed lime juice, a spash of olive oil and a generous twist of coarse black pepper.
- For an extra thick, tropical smoothie, blend together a frozen banana, vanilla yogurt, and orange juice. For a natural boost of vitamin A, mix in some carrot juice, too.
- For a refreshing dessert without too many calories, serve chilled orange segments with sliced, fresh fennel. Next, squeeze the juice of a fresh orange over the top and sprinkle lightly with powdered sugar.
- Chilled watermelon slices are a perfect fast food. Remove the rind and layer them with the freshest cucumber slices to make a beautiful centerpiece for your party and a low calorie nibble tray.
- Carrot or papaya wedges make fun dippers for chickpea hummus or fruit yogurt.
- Try a refreshing side salad of tomato (a fruit), sweet bell pepper and cucumber chunks mixed with a splash of vinaigrette dressing.
