Looking to add a little spice to your ho-hum meals?
Boosting your meals with herbs and spices will not only make your food taste better, it's also great for your health.
First of all, using spices reduces the need for less healthy condiments and sauces. Spices can also promote good digestion. Some have anti-inflammatory properties; some provide powerful antioxidants; some are linked to controlling appetite. There’s even evidence that many spices play a role in cancer prevention, thanks to their high density of phytonutrients.
So, for the next week, let's trying adding an herb or spice (or a few!) to every meal.
What’s in It for You
More antioxidants
More flavor without added calories
Better digestion
How to Add Spices to Every Meal
Breakfast
1. Add a dried spice or herb such as basil, oregano, or parsley to scrambled eggs.
2. Make that oatmeal taste like apple pie by adding fresh apple and cinnamon.
3. Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg on your coffee.
Lunch
1. Think hot hot hot! Add cayenne to your favorite vinaigrette to really spice up your salad.
2. Sprinkle some dried tarragon on your turkey before you make that delish wrap or sandwich.
3. Boost your black beans by adding a pinch of chili powder. Wrap them in a whole wheat tortilla with sauteed red peppers and onions for a Mexican-inspired lunch.
Dinner
1. Whip up a batch of vegetable soup and add a stalk of thyme to the pot.
2. Rub a skinless chicken breast with paprika, onion powder, and black pepper before baking.
3. Try an Indian recipe using superstar spice turmeric. Yellow looks good on you.
(Featured Photo: Shutterstock)