Ask anyone what a healthy food option is, and salad immediately comes to mind. However, not everyone is a fan of those leafy greens! For those looking to have a little more, yet retain the healthy factor, here are some other food options to have in mind:
1. Burrito bowls
Burrito bowls are filling, and healthy; plus, they pack a punch with the aesthetic factor too! Anything goes in a burrito bowl – load yours up with avocado cubes, fresh vegetables, cheese cubes, tomatoes, corn, black beans, and more.
Add a choice of protein; grilled chicken or baked salmon are popular favourites. If you’d like, you can even dress your burrito bowl with Greek yoghurt, hot sauce, salsa, diced onions, pickled jalapenos… it’s entirely up to you!
2. Zucchini noodles
Now, this might be something new to most of you. This dish looks entirely like pasta but, look closer, and you’ll realise that the noodles aren’t made out of flour – they are actually made out of zucchini! Use a vegetable peeler – or a spiraliser if you have one – to turn a zucchini into stringy ribbons before tossing them in a delicious pesto sauce.
Feel free to add kale to your pesto sauce for an added healthy zing, together with lots of parmesan cheese and cherry tomatoes.
3. Wraps
These are easily one of the most delicious, yet easiest, things to make for a quick lunch on the go. There are so many different types of wraps you can make – stuff a tortilla wrap with chicken, chicken, fried fish, avocado, tomatoes, onions, mushrooms, hummus, or cajun prawns.
Get creative with the seasoning for your proteins; add chipotle or barbecue sauce, toss the proteins in Caesar dressing, or spicy garlic powder. You can switch it up with steak or tuna, depending on which suits your fancy!
4. Roasted vegetables
Enjoy a rainbow on a plate with a roasted vegetables bowl. Easily prepared in 30 minutes or less, this option is great for those that are strapped for time.
Be spoilt for choice with a variety of vegetables – add potatoes, sweet potatoes, beets, carrots, avocados, pumpkin, broccolini, kale, peppers, or collard greens. Dress them up with garlic or curry powder, or sea salt, and voila! Your delicious, wholesome, and nutritious meal is ready.
5. Quinoa
Quinoa is a small grain-like alternative that is often consumed in the place of rice and pasta. Offering a slightly nutty flavour, the grain is packed with protein and fibre, naturally gluten-free, and contains magnesium, iron, and other antioxidants.
Add a little fresh acidity with slices of mango; combine with some kale, edamame, and cranberries; and throw in a little crunch with a few pecans.
6. Avocado egg cups
Avocado is often seen as a superfood, and it’s easy to see why! Besides being full of nutrients and vitamins – think: potassium, vitamin E, vitamin C, folate, and so on – avocados are also said to help regulate cholesterol levels. Fun fact: avocados actually contain more potassium than bananas! Avocados also contain plenty of healthy fats.
However, avocados do have a rather mild taste. Circumvent this by making avocado egg cups – add an egg into the hole made by the seed, and top with ham, cheese, and chives. Season with salt and pepper to taste. These are not only good for you, but look good and taste good too!
7. Sandwiches
And of course, how can we leave out the good old sandwich? Take your pick – make yourself a hearty pulled pork sandwich, a creamy egg mayonnaise (in moderation, of course!) sandwich, or a good old steamed chicken sandwich. The options are endless!
So, the next time you’re sick of eating the usual salad, try to switch it up a little with any of the above options. Here’s to eating your way to a whole new you!
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