Fruits are some of mother nature’s best work. They’re beautiful, delicious and filled with vitamins and anti-oxidants. And yet, not many of us can claim we regularly eat the recommended five servings a day. Here are some of my favorite ways of incorporating more fruits in a daily diet. They also work for fussy kids who don’t like regular chopped fruit.
- Smoothies
Probably the most obvious one on this list. Juices remove most of the fiber so I always go for smoothies over them. They are easy and quick way to consume whole fruits. Great as a quick breakfast or an evening pick me up. My daughter loves a smoothie for breakfast before school.
Shining Stars : Banana, Berries, Mangoes etc.
- Salads
I love to add whatever fruits I have at home to my lunch salads. They add a sweet and juicy kick to a boring salad and also play well with pasta salads. Citrus fruits are great for adding to salad dressings too.
Shining Stars : Apples, Berries, Mangoes, Pomegranate etc.
- Grilled
Next time you are grilling meat, don’t forget to throw a couple of chunks of fruit on the grill. Takes less than a minute but you will love the unique combination.
Shining Stars : Pineapple, Watermelon etc.
- Compote
These are a favorite in the cooler months. A compote is basically fruit cooked with sugar and a bit of citrus juice. You can try various combinations. Some of my favorites are berry compote to put on waffles, pancakes and even toast. I also like cinnamon applesauce with oatmeal.
Shining Stars : Berries, Apples, Plums, Pears etc.
- Popsicles or Ice Cream
This is probably my daughter’s favorite summer activity. She loves coming up with new combinations of fruits to turn into popsicles. They taste so much better than the store bought ones. Our favorites are grape and lime, strawberry creamsicles and kiwi. Frozen bananas and mangoes make excellent instant ice-cream.
Shining Stars : Banana, Mangoes, Grapes, Kiwi etc.
- Dried
Dried fruits make such a great healthy snack. Raisins and Prunes are great ones to keep in the pantry. I love stocking up on dried mangoes and blueberries before a road trip. Just make sure you avoid the kind with added sugar.
Shining Stars : Mangoes, Blueberries, Grapes etc.
- Salsa or Chutney
Fruit salsas are awesome accompaniment to grilled chicken, tacos and more. I love making new and unique fruit chutneys to go with Indian meals.
Shining Stars : Peaches, Mangoes, Cranberries, Dates etc.
