Eating healthy is important for overall wellness and longevity, but it can also be difficult to maintain in our busy lives.
The key to sustainable healthy eating is making it easy and comfortable for yourself.
These seven foods can be stored well, prepared in various ways, and make healthy eating a breeze.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are an excellent source of fiber, protein, and complex carbohydrates, making them a great choice for a healthy diet. They are also easy to store and can be prepared in a variety of ways.
Some great options include:
● quinoa
● oats
● brown rice
● barley
● farro
To store whole grains, keep them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They can last for several months when stored this way. To prepare, simply cook according to package instructions or add them to soups, stews, salads, or enjoy them as a side dish to your main meal.
Leafy Greens
Leafy greens are a great source of vitamins and minerals and are also easy to store and prepare.
Good leafy greens to try include:
● spinach
● kale
● lettuce
● collard greens
● mustard leaves
To store leafy greens, wash them and wrap them in paper towels to absorb any excess moisture. Then, place them in a plastic bag and store them in the refrigerator. They will last much longer when stored this way. To prepare, simply wash them again and chop them up, then use them in salads, sandwiches, or however else you prefer.
Fresh Fruits
Fresh fruits are a great source of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are also easy to store and prepare.
Keep these tasty fruits around for a quick and easy snack:
● apples
● bananas
● oranges
● berries
● pears
● grapes
To store fresh fruits, keep them in the refrigerator or on the counter, depending on the type of fruit. Apples and bananas can be kept on the counter, while berries and grapes should be stored in the refrigerator.
To prepare, simply wash and slice the fruits for a quick snack or add them to smoothies, salads, or oatmeal.
Dried Beans and Canned Beans
Dried beans and canned beans are both great options for adding protein and fiber to your diet.
Common favorites include:
● kidney beans
● black beans
● garbanzo beans
● black eyed beans
● white beans
Dried beans are a more budget-friendly option and can be stored for long periods of time, but they do require a bit more preparation. You will usually need to soak them overnight and then cook them in boiling water for an hour before they are soft enough to eat.
Canned beans are much more convenient, as they can be used right away. However, they tend to be more expensive, contain more sodium, and may not taste as fresh.
Frozen Fruits and Veggies
Frozen fruits and veggies are a great way to have a variety of options on hand. They are frozen when they are ripe and ready to eat, so you typically only need to thaw them out or cook them before consuming them.
Some of the best frozen foods to keep in your freezer include:
● berries
● peas
● carrots
● corn
● green beans
● broccoli
● jackfruit
Frozen fruits and veggies can generally be stored for several months.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are a great source of healthy fats, protein, and minerals. They also make for a great snack on the go or as a topping for your meals.
Some popular options include:
● almonds
● walnuts
● pecans
● peanuts
● pistachios
● sunflower seeds
● chia seeds
● flax seeds
● sesame seeds
To store nuts and seeds, keep them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They can last for several months when stored this way.
Lots of Spices
Keeping a diverse and well-stocked spice rack can make all the difference in making healthy eating easy and enjoyable.
Here are some tasty spices to keep on hand:
● black pepper
● cumin
● coriander
● cinnamon
● turmeric
● ginger
● nutmeg
● chili powder
● pepper flakes
● paprika
● cloves
● bay leaves
● cardamom
In addition to providing flavor, many spices have anti-inflammatory properties, can help with digestion, and even reduce your risk for chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.
