Three Different Dips for Fresh Pears

Here is a fun and simple way to serve fresh USA Pears as a snack or appetizer. I’ve taken already fiber-rich pears and added ingredients containing protein, calcium, and antioxidants. Whip up these three dips and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply pull them out to soften slightly before the kids get home from school or while waiting for guests to arrive. All that’s left to do is slice up a few of your favorite USA Pears for dipping! Three Different Dips for Fresh Pears Ingredients ¼ cup of your favorite nut butter 2 tablespoons dried cherries, finely chopped 4 oz. low-fat cream cheese, softened ⅛ – ¼ tsp. almond extract 3 tablespoons sliced almonds, toasted and chopped 1 (6 ounce) container plain or vanilla flavored Greek yogurt 8 – 10 fresh raspberries cinnamon, for Continue reading

Snack Right to Stay Healthy Through the Holidays

Office candy dishes, gifts of baked goods, parties, dinners, and extra-packed to-do lists all shuffle in with the holiday season. And increased stress levels can also follow suit. While we can’t do your holiday shopping for you, we can offer up a helpful tool for keeping your energy level stable, your mood happier, and your weight steadier during the holiday season… snacks. But not just any old snacks will do, follow these four tips to ensure your snacks are energy-boosting powerhouses. Use the Rule of 2: The combination of protein, high fiber/less processed carbohydrates, and fat is one that keeps blood sugar and energy levels stable for hours. At mealtime, make sure you have this triple threat (+ veggies!) on your plate. At snack time, aim for at least 2 of the 3…what we call the “rule of 2.” Examples: Continue reading

On the Road Again

I’ve taken a few road trips this summer, and eating in the car can be a slippery slope. Sitting for long periods of time, especially if driving alone, makes me want to snack to keep busy. The key for me to staying on target is to busy my mind to avoid the temptation to graze. I get bored listening to music for hours; during my last trip, I listened to a book and practiced Spanish with drive-time lessons on disc. This really helped curb my desire to snack!  As far as food is concerned, I plan ahead and try to stop somewhere pleasant to enjoy my lunch, which also limits snacking in the car. I always pack a cooler with snackable veggies, fruit, and healthful meals – sandwiches are easy, and I almost always travel with bananas and pears to Continue reading

A Grand Adventure

Summer is here and for many of us that means hitting the road to adventure. Last weekend I hiked through the beautiful Grand Canyon, no small feat for my first long hike of the summer. Noshing on fresh fruit, nuts, and trail mix from a precipice above the Colorado River was the pinnacle of enjoyment and accomplishment – what a sense of wonder. And thank goodness I brought extra water and snacks for the grueling hike back up the canyon! Whether your summer travel plans include hiking, sun and sand, or 18 holes, staying fueled and hydrated are keys to health, safety, and enjoyment under the sun. Before heading outside, especially on a hot, sunny day, make sure to drink plenty of water and eat a light, balanced meal that includes carbohydrates, fruit or vegetables, protein, and some healthy fats. Continue reading