Peanut butter and jelly are a classic pairing that have been a staple in school lunches for decades. There are many other food combinations that we rarely deviate from but when we do, that’s when you have a flavor explosion. Eating a clean diet plan can get boring if you are afraid to experiment. Plain chicken with steamed veggies and a baked sweet potato only sounds appetizing when you’ve been drinking beer and eating potato chips all week. Here are my 4 favorite unlikely clean eating combinations that you probably haven’t tried yet!
Breakfast
Getting bored with oatmeal again for breakfast? Try having Quinoa with Blueberries, Almonds and Unsweetened Almond Milk for an updated twist on an old classic. I’ve been making quinoa for a few years now, but it wasn’t until this week that I finally decided to have it with fruit and milk rather than veggies and cheese! I was pleasantly surprised at how well they went to together. Unlike oatmeal, Quinoa is a complete protein so there is no need to add that protein powder if you are looking to lose a few pounds
Snacks
Love cheese and crackers but trying to eat clean? Try spreading a Laughing Cow Wedge Light Blue Cheese on a slice of toasted Ezekial bread with 1 TBSP fruit preserve like fig or strawberry fruit spread. The sweet and salty combination satisfies a light sweet tooth and salt craving. I love using the Laughing Cow Light wedges because for just 35 calories, I get to feel like I’m cheating. The sweet creamy texture with sweet fruit reminds me of cheesecake! Feel free to use real fruit instead of a spread. For under 150 calories, this snack packs in a healthy dose of protein and carbs to help keep hunger at bay.
Love watermelon? I had never seen this combination until a few years ago but top chefs around the country are showing off their skills combining light and sweet watermelon with feta and balsamic vinegar. Before I spotted this combination, the most adventurous pairing I made with watermelon was tequila! Try mixing 1 cup of diced watermelon with 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese and 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar for a snack under 200 calories.
Side Dish
Can’t figure out how to cook leafy greens like kale or collard greens? Add some raisins into the mix! Yes, raisins with leafy greens surprisingly cut the bitter taste of sauteed kale and collard greens. Saute together 1 tsp of olive oil, chopped garlic and 2 cups of raw kale. Once it’s wilted, add in 2 tbsp of raisins and cook for 1-2 more minutes.
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What is your favorite unlikely pairing?
Disclaimer: I am a Laughing Cow Community Leader because I love their products, like a lot. Read more about my relationship here.
