Memorial Day-The Healthy Way!

Since this weekend is a long one for most people and typically filled with lots of tempting food, drinks and desserts, I thought a food  post would be rather fitting. Barbeques, potlucks and picnics can lead to a lot of temptation if we aren't prepared. If you are throwing the party- try some of these healthier options to serve your guests. If you are attending a party, you may want to throw one of these recipes together below to bring a healthy option for yourself and your friends.
 

Homeade Hummus

• 1-16 oz can of chickpeas or garbanzo beans. Don't throw the liquid out! You will also need..
• 1/4 cup liquid from the can
• 3-5 tablespoons lemon juice (add to desired taste)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons tahini
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions: With a food processor, add all ingredients and mix well. You can also make this in a blender. Serve chilled with raw veggies, pita chips, pretzels etc.

I got this recipe form http://blondeponytail.com/2011/03/speed-dating/

A Better Burger

If you haven't tried veggie burgers, you need too. I promise, they are not as scary as they look! I know a lot of people who aren't vegetarian/vegan but like the taste and the better nutrient content of veggie burgers compared to beef. Although it would definitely be an option to buy some frozen, premade veggie burgers to throw on the grill this weekend, they are even better when you make them yourself. Try out the recipe below!

2 dried chipotle peppers (wear plastic gloves when handling)
1 cup chopped red onions
1/2 cup chopped carrots
1 cup chopped mushrooms
1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
1/4 cup chopped fresh italian parsley
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon cider vinegar
1 can (19 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
1/4 cup blue or yellow cornmeal
1/3 cup unseasoned dry bread crumbs


Directions: Place the peppers in a small bowl and cover with boiling water. Let soak for 10 minutes, or until softened. Drain, pat dry, and remove and discard the stems and seeds. Chop the flesh.

2. Coat a large no-stick skillet with no-stick spray. Add the onions and carrots. Cook over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the peppers, mushrooms, corn, parsley, cumin, and vinegar. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Remove from the heat.

3. Place the beans in a large bowl. Use the back of a wooden spoon to mash about half of the beans. Stir in the cornmeal and the vegetable mixture until well-combined. Form into four 1"-thick patties. Roll in the bread crumbs to coat.

4. Wipe out the skillet and coat with no-stick spray. Place over medium heat until hot. Add the burgers and cook for 5 minutes per side, or until browned and hot throughout.

I got this recipe from http://www.womenshealthmag.com/nutrition/veggie-burger-recipes


Other healthy swaps you might make:

• Using whole wheat buns for your hamburgers or hot dogs
• Lean cuts of meat or turkey burgers/dogs
• Using whole wheat pasta for your side dishes
• Using mustard or ketchup instead of mayo or ranch
• Filling up on fruits, vegetables and salad before macaroni, chips and potato salad
• Drinking light beer rather than full-calorie versions*

*I do not condone drinking alcohol. However there are modifications we can make in order to decrease our total caloric intake if we do choose to drink.

What healthy dishes are you bringing to your Memorial Day event?