Healthy nutrition habits are an integral part to any weight-loss or weight management plan. However, many people report that creating healthy meals and snacks that they enjoy and can stick to becomes difficult after a while.
Well, just like it’s helpful to “spice” up your exercise and meal plans to keep things fresh, it’s also helpful to “spice” up your recipes — literally! Spices and seasonings are an important part of any meal that you prepare, and they’re a surprisingly overlooked tool to help you on your journey with weight and health.
For example, different spices can turn a plain chicken breast into something new and delicious very quickly — there are so many different options and flavor combinations out there to try!
Add these Flavor Profiles to Your Cabinet and “Spice” Up Your Plate!
Below, discover some simple spices and seasonings to stock up on so you can set yourself up for cooking (and nutrition) success!
Mint – Mint is not only flavorful, but it’s great for aiding with digestion and inflammation. It’s also a great flavor to break out when you’re in need of some rejuvenation! To incorporate mint into your nutrition plan, try adding it in teas, fruit, soups and sauces.- Oregano – Oregano is a powerful flavor that is very popular in cooking and high in antioxidants. You can use it in a great number of Italian and Mexican dishes, and many people even like to flavor their vegetables with it.
- Curry – Curry is a popular spice mix often made up of different ingredients from different regions all over the world. You can definitely be creative with it when cooking! Because it’s so versatile, you can add it to almost anything – particularly meats, vegetables, fish and rice.
Basil – Basil is another popular flavor with an excellent source of Vitamin K and other nutrients. But don’t confuse it with mint! Its round, often pointed leaves look very similar to mint leaves. Basil is an excellent seasoning to use on foods such as tomato dishes, pesto and marinades.- Chili Powder – This spicy seasoning is not only fun, but it’s great for boosting your metabolism and adding flavor variety to dishes that you’re tired of. It’s commonly used when cooking stews, chili and grounds meats — and those are notorious dishes you can play around with!
- Thyme – Thyme is an herb that has been used been used for culinary, medicinal and ornamental purposes all throughout time. When preparing food, it’s excellent for use in soups, sauces, meats and poultry.
More Meal Planning Techniques for a Nutritous Plate
You’ve got some tools in the toolbox for planning a menu, but what about when it comes time to cook? Check out some of these extra techniques for crafting your nutrition plan.
Have Emergency Meals Handy – These are necessary for busy nights! Emergency meals are foods that you can cook instantly, without a recipe card, that you and your family will love.- Have “No-cook” Options Ready – What about the nights you don’t want to spend time in the kitchen with your stove or oven? Have foods on-hand like crispy salads, grilled meats and pre-prepared foods that you can microwave.
- Stay Organized – Keep a recipe box, phone files and/or computer files for keeping track of recipes you create and want to use again.
Want More Information about “Spicing” Up Your Plate?
For more information on using seasonings and spices as part of your nutrition plan, be sure to visit and claim a FREE copy of the Your Weight Matters Health and Wellness Guide by CLICKING HERE.
