Healthy food has a reputation for being not tasty. We’re conditioned from a young age to fear broccoli as a disgusting, green monster. If vegetables tasted like donuts, we wouldn’t have this many issues.
Maybe some part of our distaste for healthy foods is that we’ve been seeing the same ones for so long. Plain broccoli, plain rice, plain chicken, nobody is ever really licking their lips for these foods. Why not try something new? How exciting is that!
Today’s grocery stores are full of interesting, healthy foods that taste good and inspire curiosity. Nothing will get you out of a dining rut than trying something you’ve never had and finding your new favorite food. It’s a fantastic feeling, and there are so many options to try out!
Sure, you might not like some of them, but with a little experimenting and some persistence, you’re guaranteed to find something delicious. Here are six health food trends that you should try out:
1. Chia Seeds
Believe it or not, “chia” is the ancient Mayan name for “strength.” These little seeds live up to their name. Despite their small stature, they pack a big nutritional punch. They’re loaded with antioxidants, fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. They also have a good deal of protein for their size. Try them in a yogurt parfait for breakfast!
2. Skyr
Move over, Greece. Iceland is the new king of yogurt. Skyr is a dairy product that has been a staple of Icelandic food for over a thousand years. It’s similar to yogurt in taste while carrying a slightly thicker texture, like Greek yogurt with more protein. It’s high in protein, calcium, and other important vitamins while remaining low in calories. It’s traditionally eaten with milk and sugar, but you can try it in smoothies too.
3. Halloumi
Halloumi is a type of cheese from Cyprus. It has a high melting point, so it can be cooked without losing its shape. It’s high in protein and calcium and tastes delicious. Halloumi is very versatile, so you can grill, bake, or fry it. It goes great in sandwiches, curries, and salads.
4. Amaranth
You’ve probably had quinoa, but amaranth is the next whole grain you should try out. This ancient grain has been used for over 8,000 years in the Mayan, Incan, and Aztec civilizations. It’s gluten-free and rich in protein, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s also very versatile. You can use it in place of pasta, rice and couscous or make it sweet by putting in fruit nuts, or cinnamon.
5. Seaweed
If you’ve had sushi, you’ve probably had seaweed. But did you know that it’s super versatile and nutritious? Seaweed contains iodine, which supports thyroid function, as well as tons of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s also very low in calories. Try adding it to soups, salads, smoothies, and stews.
6. Kefir
Similar to skyr, kefir is a dairy product similar to yogurt. It originated in Eastern Europe and Southwest Asia. It tastes a little sour like yogurt, but it has a much thinner consistency. It doesn’t have as much protein as yogurt, but it is a much more powerful probiotic. It also has antibacterial properties and it’s low in lactose. You can also make it on your own!
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