Unfortunately, in many western developed societies, the pressures of daily living have created a situation in which fast (or “junk”) food – in ever-increasing portion sizes – has become the normal way of eating for many people.
At Life Daily we feel that it’s time to reverse that trend, so we’ve selected some healthy food recipes to help you change direction.
Most of us are aware that a diet based on healthy food provides the body with essential nutrition A healthy diet supports energy needs without exposure to toxicity or excessive weight gain from consuming too much food.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has made the following 5 recommendations for healthy eating:
- Eat roughly the same amount of calories that your body is using.
- Increase your consumption of plant foods, particularly fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains and nuts.
- Limit the intake of fats, and prefer less unhealthy unsaturated fats to saturated fats and trans fats.
- Limit the intake of sugar.
- Limit salt / sodium consumption from all sources and ensure that salt is iodized.
It is with these suggestions in mind that we offer the following healthy food recipes.
(Note: Calorie calculation is per portion unless otherwise stated).
1. Pears Grilled with Pecorino – 317 calories
It may seem strange at first glance to find a recipe combining fruit and cheese together, but this is not unusual in some cuisines.
This recipe from Tuscany combines juicy pears with salty pecorino cheese. With some cheese melted over the pears, and the rest combined with grapes and salad leaves, this is a very attractive dish.
2. Maple Baked Salmon with Chopped Almond – 260 calories
The delicious flavor of baked salmon marinated with sweet maple dressing and topped with almonds makes this dish taste really good. Goes well with steamed vegetables and some heart-healthy quinoa.
3. Grilled Pork Tenderloin – 275 calories
This mouth-watering pork tenderloin recipe will not only fill you up, but there is a real health benefit from the zucchini, peppers and mango in this dish.
4. Slow-Braised Beef and Barley – 367 calories
If you feel the need for comfort food – this dish is the answer.
The beef is simmered until tender, and the gravy is thickened with nourishing pot barley to make a hearty casserole; juniper berries add a distinctive flavor. Serve with a green vegetable, such as green beans or spring greens.
5. Mediterranean Meatloaf – 303 calories
This dish will change forever your perception of meatloaf with its combination of red pepper, feta and olives. Ground turkey is leaner than ground beef as well as being a good source of protein. Serve it with a light, healthy salad or steamed vegetables.
6. Roast Vegetable and Bean Stew – 278 Calories
This easy, one-pot dish of root vegetables and pinto beans makes a really nourishing main course and needs no accompaniments.
7. Tomato-Roasted Mackerel – 268 calories
Tired of salmon? Mackerel is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. Pair with some roasted sweet potatoes and a mix of fresh vegetables for a well-rounded, nutritious me
8. Grilled Greek-Style Pizza – 413 calories(whole pizza)
Still craving for pizza? Try this option – it’s healthier than regular pizza – and even tastier!
The arugula pesto in this recipe adds a delicious peppery taste to the pizza. The grilled whole-wheat pita resembles a thin oven-baked pizza crust and has a great crunch, but with less calories and fat.
9. Black-Eyed Peas and Walnut Lettuce Wraps – 262 calories
This a very satisfying and nutrient-dense meal. It’s filled with fiber-rich black-eyed peas and walnuts and has added crunchiness from the crisp, fresh lettuce leaves.
10. Spiced Couscous Tomatoes – 175 calories
Hollowed out tomatoes make the perfect container for the filling of spicy eggplant, dried apricot and nut couscous. Goes well with a piece of grilled fish or a grilled chicken breast for a nutritious and diet-friendly meal.
For detailed instructions on how to prepare these dishes click the link HERE.
Are you eating healthy food? How to you feel about our recipe suggestions?
What is your experience with dieting?
Share your thoughts with our readers by making use of the comments feed provided below.
