Join the Celebration: National Nutrition Month!

National Nutrition Month is an annual campaign during the month of March. It was established in 1973 by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Throughout the month, everyone is invited to learn about how to make informed food choices and develop healthful habits (in both areas of eating and physical activity).  

A unique theme is picked each year, and this year’s theme is “Discover the Power of Nutrition.” Foods and beverages power us through the day. Nutrition has the power to help us thrive. Build habits that help you feel great this March by consulting a registered dietitian nutritionist or a nutrition and dietetics technician, registered.  

 

Source: https://www.eatright.org/national-nutrition-month  

Colorful Couscous Salad Recipe

    Read the recipe below, published by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, if you are interested in a couscous dish with colorful vegetables and a lemon-thyme vinaigrette.  

Prep time: 15 minutes 

Ingredients: 

• - 2 cups cooked couscous 

• - ½ cup frozen corn, thawed 

• - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 

• - 1 cup zucchini, diced (about 1 small zucchini) 

• - 1 cup orange bell pepper, diced (about 1 small bell pepper) 

• - ¼ cup (50 milliliters) extra-virgin olive oil 

• - 2 tablespoons (25 milliliters) fresh squeezed lemon juice (about 1 small lemon) 

• - 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves 

• - ¼ teaspoon salt 

• - ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 

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Directions: 

Wash your hands before you begin! 

1. 1. In a large bowl, add cooked couscous, corn, tomatoes, zucchini, and bell pepper. Stir until combined. Set aside. 

2. 2. In a small bowl or glass jar with a lid, add olive oil, lemon juice, thyme leaves, salt, and black pepper. Stir or shake until the dressing ingredients are combined. 

3. 3. Pour dressing over couscous mixture and stir until evenly coated. Chill before serving. 

 

Source: https://www.eatright.org/recipes/salads/colorful-couscous-salad-recipe  

9 Candy-Free Ideas for Valentine’s Day

Searching for Valentine’s Day treats doesn’t have to mean an overload of sugar and novelty sweets. With a little creativity, the holiday can be an opportunity to focus on balanced, appealing snacks that are both festive and nutritious. 

These Valentine’s Day party ideas emphasize ingredients from low-fat dairy, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, many of which are simple to prepare and easy to serve in group settings. 

• Send a Message 

• - Write playful notes directly on clementine peels or banana skins using a food-safe felt marker for a lighthearted, personal touch. 

• Strawberries on Cloud Nine 

• - Naturally rich in vitamin C and dietary fiber, strawberries pair well with a small spoonful of whipped cream or yogurt for an elegant, lightly sweet option. 

• Red Salsa Snack Plates 

• - Offer a build-your-own plate with sliced vegetables, whole-grain pita chips or crackers, low-fat cheese cubes, and tomato salsa for dipping. 

• Banana Split “Love Boats” 

• - Slice a banana lengthwise and top with low-fat vanilla Greek yogurt and heart-shaped fruit for a protein-rich twist on a classic dessert. 

• Pink Milk 

• - Blend strawberries with low-fat milk to create a naturally sweet, protein-forward drink with a festive color. 

• Heart-Shaped Sandwiches 

• - Use a cookie cutter to shape whole-wheat nut butter and jelly sandwiches into hearts for a simple, familiar favorite. 

• Red Fruit with Yogurt Dip 

• - Highlight red produce—such as apples, blood oranges, grape tomatoes, red grapes, and red peppers—and serve with a lightly sweetened dip made from cinnamon and low-fat vanilla yogurt. 

• Cupid’s Smoothie 

• - Combine cranberry or pomegranate juice with low-fat milk, bananas, and canned pineapple for a naturally pink, refreshing smoothie. 

• XOXO Trail Mix 

• - Mix O-shaped cereal and pretzel sticks with dried cranberries and strawberries for a festive, crunchy snack that balances sweet and salty flavors. 

 

Source: https://www.eatright.org/food/cultural-cuisines-and-traditions/holidays-and-celebrations/9-candy-free-ideas-for-valentines-day