Inspiration

Compared to its more processed counterpart, this whole grain provides more nutrients and a more complex flavor profile.

Nutrition highlights:
Per 100g serving, there are 122 calories, 23g of net carbohydrates (25g of carbohydrates and 2g of fiber), 1g of fat, and 3g of protein.

Easy ways to enjoy:
1) Use as a side to complement almost any meal.
2) Substitute brown rice into your favorite fried rice or jambalaya recipe.
3) Stuff cooked rice, mixed with onions, tomatoes, and desired seasonings, into cabbage or bell peppers and bake in the oven.

Reference:
https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/785513/nutrients

Dark leafy greens that can be cooked low and slow or often used as a wrap.

Nutrition highlights:
Per 100g serving, there are 32 calories, 1g of net carbohydrates (5g of carbohydrates and 4g of fiber), 1g of fat, and 3g of protein. Collard greens are rich in vitamins A and C and calcium.

Easy ways to enjoy:
1) Saute onions and garlic in a pot. Then add bite size pieces of greens, add enough water to cover, add your desired seasonings, and simmer until tender.
2) Chop leaves (removed from stems) and saute in a pan with olive oil and your favorite spices.
3) Steam whole leaves (removed from stems) until tender and use as a tortilla alternative for wraps.

Reference:
https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/787220/nutrients

This root vegetable can be found in varying sizes and colors, adding to its versatility.

Nutrition highlights:
Per 100g serving, there are 41 calories, 7g of net carbohydrates (10g of carbohydrates and 3g of fiber), and 1g of protein. Carrots are especially rich in vitamin A.

Easy ways to enjoy:
1) Cut into desired shape and size, coat with olive oil and seasonings, and bake in the oven until tender.
2) Cut into medallions and add to your favorite soup.
3) Dip raw sticks into hummus for a snack.

Reference:
https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/787522/nutrients

This fruit, although used like a vegetable, can be prepared into sauces, soups, or just eaten raw.

Nutrition highlights:
Per 100g serving, there are 18 calories, 3g of net carbohydrates (4g of carbohydrates and 1g of fiber), and 1g of protein. Tomatoes provide great amounts of vitamins C and A.

Easy ways to enjoy:
1) Remove seeds and dice before adding to your favorite salad.
2) Use as a base for a pasta marinara sauce or curry.
3) Slice and coat with olive oil, garlic, and your favorite seasonings. Bake in the oven until slightly browned.

Reference:
https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/787683/nutrients

With multiple colored varieties, these sweet peppers provide a refreshing crunch or can be cooked till tender.

Nutrition highlights:
Per 100g (green bell pepper) serving, there are 20 calories, 3g of net carbohydrates (5g of carbohydrates and 2g of fiber), and 1g of protein. Green bell peppers are rich in vitamin C.

Easy ways to enjoy:
1) Add chopped peppers to your favorite salad.
2) Saute strips with sliced onions and mushrooms for fajitas.
3) Dip raw strips in hummus for a quick snack.

Reference:
https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/787811/nutrients