Valentine’s Day is near, so let’s make this day special by preparing a heart healthy dinner.
Think about that special someone (family, friends, significant other, etc.) and their favorite meals to get an idea of what you want to make. Once you have decided on your meal of choice, create a list of main ingredients, and split them up into food groups. Finally, fill in the remaining food groups to create a heart healthy dish.
Here are some other ideas to take your heart healthy dinner to the next level:
· Consider adding variety and color for extra nutrients and flavor.
· Make your grain a whole grain, like using quinoa or a wild rice blend.
· Choose lean proteins, such as chicken or fish, or use legumes, such as beans and peas.
Here’s an example: · Chicken Alfredo Pasta and Chocolate Orange Wedges
o Vegetable: Mushrooms and Broccoli
o Grain: Whole Grain Penne Pasta
o Protein: Chicken
o Dairy: Low-fat Cream Cheese, Low-fat Milk, and Parmesan Cheese
o Fruit: Mandarin Oranges
No matter what you choose to make, have fun, and enjoy your nutritious meal with that special someone.
Reference: The American Heart Association Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations
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