By Miriam Landru
This winter you should super size… and that’s not in the form of a certain fast-food chain’s former huge French fry and soft drink option. And while we all know that’s hearty comfort food perfect for eating in cold weather, what we want to suggest is instead filling your diet with nutrient rich sustenance. According to Google, a superfood is a “nutrient-rich food to be especially beneficial for health and well-being.”
Here are our five favorite super foods that will be in season and in our produce aisles this winter!
Kale
Not just a trendy green anymore, kale has made its way into the diet of many health conscious Americans. It is a rich source of vitamin A, vitamin B6 and of course, vitamin C. You can put a handful into a fruit-filled smoothie with nearly zero taste or try it as a side dish sautéed with EVOO, garlic and onion.
Root Vegetables
We are not just talking about the carrot or sweet potatoes here. Parsnips, turnips and rutabagas can all be roasted, sautéed or boiled to delicious perfection. These other options are high in vitamin A, C and folate. Add them as a compliment to you wild-caught salmon providing even more robust flavor.
Chicories
Make an ordinary salad into something extraordinary with endive and escarole. The almost spicy flavor of these will be sure to add a kick, plus they are chockfull of folate. If the taste is not pleasing to you alone, try it in place of lettuce as part of a lean sandwich
Cauliflower
Don’t forget about broccoli’s cousin! Cauliflower boasts a high amount of vitamin C with vitamin K following suit. If you are “so over” dipping it raw in ranch dressing, try roasting it in the oven with EVOO and if you’re an Indian food fiend… curry! The crunch and flavor is unreal.
Pomegranate
Though they’re a pain to open, go ahead and slice the fruit and experience the greatness that is pomegranate arils. Just one cup is high in fiber and even packs some protein. Enjoy alone or as a topping to your favorite salad that you want to make just a little sweeter.