Top food trends for 2009
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It's 2009, and that means new food trends are appearing. Dr Madelyn Fernstrom shares some of her favourite food and healthy eating trends for '09
Cauliflower and Brussels sprouts
These are two of the lesser-known 'cruciferous' vegetables, known best for their cancer-fighting properties. While broccoli is the best known (and loved or hated), and cabbage has been on the radar for a while, these two round out the category.
In fact, Brussels sprouts look like little cabbages, and have an amazing taste, whether they're steamed or roasted. Cauliflower is eaten raw, steamed, and even mashed like a potato. It's often part of a vegetable mix, including broccoli and carrots.
While the fresh form can be pricey, frozen sprouts and cauliflower are an economical and healthful choice.
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Garden vegetable pie
Broccoli, cauliflower and tofu saladFlavanols
This group of antioxidants are found in a variety of foods, and have the property to improve blood circulation, keeping blood vessels elastic.
Great for overall heart health and blood pressure control. Best sources are found in foods ranging from apples, to red wine, to dark chocolate. The old saying of an apple a day keeping the doctor away is good advice!
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Don't let wine make you fat!Apples
Apples are nearly one of nature's perfect foods, and for this challenging economy, a perfect choice any time of day.
Apples are nutrient and fibre rich, thirst-quenching (they contain lots of water), and act like a toothbrush to clean your teeth. There are lots of varieties to choose from and economical when purchased by the bag.
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Simple apple strudel
Baked apples with peppercornsPomegranates
This fruit is at the top its class as a red/purple fruit in antioxidant content. Plus, it's got a tart and distinctive flavour.
You can buy whole fruit, and remove the seeds, or purchase the fresh seeds for a pricier option. The seeds can be eaten as a snack, or added to fruits and vegetable salads.
POM juice, is the original pomegranate juice, great over ice, or mixed one part juice to two parts soda water for a sparkling treat.
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Mediterranean feta salad with pomegranate dressing
Mixed fruit smoothieFish rich in Omega-3 fats
This trend is here to stay. Whether it's salmon, shellfish, or sardines, these omega-3 fat rich fish are always a healthful choice. Aim for 2-3 servings a week, either fresh or frozen.
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Spicy sardine with chickpea and avocado salad
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Are you getting enough?Vegetable proteins
Consumption of legumes and beans as major sources of protein is on the rise. While soy remains popular, the variety of beans, including chickpeas, kidney, cannellini, and black beans are used in anything from soups, to chillis, to main dish entrees.
No time to soak the dried beans? Canned beans are a good alternative.
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Grains and pulses: ideas for great recipesFlax pasta
Looking for a fibre rich pasta with a great taste? Try some mixed grain pastas made with whole wheat, flax, spelt, and other fibre-rich grains.
While the calories per serving are the same as white flour, the fibre and protein found in these grains provide greater satisfaction with a smaller portion.
Simply put, you'll eat less and be more satisfied. Stick with a red sauce, and limit creamy, fat-rich sauces!
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Real food for real people. We're simplifying our menus, and using fewer ingredients, that are fresh, and simply prepared.
On-line recipes and books abound for meals with no more than a handful of ingredients, prepared in 30 minutes or less.
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Fast and healthy meals
More simple recipe ideasCrock pots and one-pot meals
For those on the go, smaller and easier to clean crock pots are great news. Using a few basic staples, your raw ingredients are slow-cooked in a safe, enclosed cooker and ready for you at the end of the day.
An easy and economical way to enjoy a family meal without the hectic activity of end-of-the-day dinner preparation.
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