Whether you’re a seafood aficionado or just starting to explore the world of lobster, these recipes are bound to impress. From succulent lobster tails to refreshing salads and indulgent bakes, we’ve curated a variety of options to suit different preferences and dietary needs.

So, get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with us as we dive into these delightful and wholesome lobster recipes. Let’s explore the flavors, textures, and creativity that these dishes bring to the table. Whether you’re planning a special dinner or simply looking to elevate your weekday meals, these healthy lobster recipes will surely leave you satisfied and craving more.

Now, let’s dive into the world of healthy lobster recipes!

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1. Lobster Tail Recipe

Courtesy of The Recipe Critic

This recipe features succulent lobster tails cooked to perfection. The best part? It’s a healthier alternative to traditional butter-drenched lobster dishes. With a beautiful presentation and a burst of flavor, this dish is a must-try.

Try this recipe from The Recipe Critic.

2. Lobster Salad

Courtesy of Dinner at the Zoo

This refreshing lobster salad is packed with fresh ingredients and a light dressing, making it a perfect choice for a healthy and satisfying meal. The combination of tender lobster meat, crisp vegetables, and zesty flavors creates a delightful balance.

Try this recipe from Dinner at the Zoo.

3. Crab-Stuffed and Baked Lobster Tails

Courtesy of Heinen’s

Indulge in the decadence of crab-stuffed lobster tails without the guilt! This recipe combines the richness of crab with the sweetness of lobster, resulting in a tantalizing dish that is both elegant and healthy.

Try this recipe from Heinen’s.

4. Lightened Up Lobster Bisque

Courtesy of Meals with Maggie

Craving a creamy and comforting lobster bisque? This lightened-up version is the answer. With a velvety texture and rich flavor, this soup is a perfect choice for a cozy and guilt-free indulgence.

Try this recipe from Meals with Maggie.

5. Lobster and Mango Salad

Courtesy of Paleo Leap

This vibrant lobster and mango salad is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. Packed with fresh ingredients, it’s a healthy and refreshing dish that will transport you to a tropical paradise.

Try this recipe from Paleo Leap.

6. Lobster Tail Fra Diavolo with Zucchini Noodles

Courtesy of Inspiralized

For a lighter take on a classic Italian dish, try this lobster tail fra diavolo with zucchini noodles. The spicy tomato sauce perfectly complements the tender lobster meat, while the zucchini noodles add a nutritious twist.

Try this recipe from Inspiralized.

7. Lemon Asparagus Lobster Linguini

Courtesy of A Perfect Feast

Indulge in the flavors of spring with this lemon asparagus lobster linguini. With the combination of succulent lobster, vibrant asparagus, and tangy lemon, this dish is a celebration of freshness and taste.

Try this recipe from A Perfect Feast.

Read next: 8 Easy, Healthy Seafood Dinners That Take Under 25 Minutes To Make

The post 7 Healthy Lobster Recipes We’re Loving Right Now appeared first on Clean Plates.

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1. Arugula Quinoa Salad

Courtesy of Hello Frozen Bananas

Packed with 17 grams of protein and 7 grams of fiber, this salad is a nutrient powerhouse. Quick to prepare, it’s the perfect meal for those busy days when you crave something both nutritious and satisfying.

Try this recipe from Hello Frozen Bananas.

2. Chicken Tomato Soup

Courtesy of Sailor Bailey

A comforting bowl of soup can be both nourishing and fulfilling. This chicken tomato soup is not only rich in protein but also brimming with essential nutrients to keep you energized.

Try this recipe from Sailor Bailey.

3. Protein Waffles

Courtesy of Detoxinista

Start your day right with these protein-packed waffles, delivering 15 grams of protein per serving. A quick and tasty breakfast option for those busy mornings.

Try this recipe from Detoxinista.

4. Healthy Tuna Salad

Courtesy of Daisbeet

This tuna salad swaps mayo for protein-rich Greek yogurt. Plus: it comes together in just ten minutes!

Try this recipe from Daisybeet.

5. Easy White Bean Skillet

Courtesy of Two Peas and Their Pod

This white bean skillet is a hearty dinner option that’s quick to make and packed with fiber. It’s also perfect for those looking to incorporate more plant-based goodness into their diet.

Try this recipe from Two Peas and Their Pod.

6. Everyday Nourish Bowl

Courtesy of Simple Veganista

A versatile and nutrient-packed nourish bowl is an excellent way to ensure you’re getting the vitamins and minerals your body needs. Easily customizable, it’s a go-to for busy days.

Try this recipe from Simple Veganista.

7. 5-Minute Protein Peanut Butter Energy Bites

Courtesy of Ambitious Kitchen

Fuel your workouts with these protein-packed energy bites. In just 5 minutes, you can prepare a snack that’s both delicious and supportive of your active lifestyle.

Try this recipe from Ambitious Kitchen.

8. Dessert Baked Sweet Potato

Courtesy of Eating Bird Food

Satisfy your sweet tooth guilt-free with this nutrient and fiber-packed dessert baked sweet potato. A delightful way to indulge without compromising your resolutions.

Try this recipe from Eating Bird Food.

9. Egg White Omelet

Courtesy of Simply Quinoa

Wake up to a protein and veggie-packed omelet. This recipe is a perfect choice for a wholesome breakfast that sets a positive tone for the rest of the day.

Try this recipe from Simply Quinoa.

10. Sheet Pan Chicken and Veggies

Courtesy of The Real Food Dietitians

This one-pan wonder is not only easy to prepare but also high in protein and rich in nutrients. Simplify your meal prep while enjoying a flavorful and nutritious dish.

Try this recipe from The Real Food Dietitians.

Read next: 25 Tiny Changes You Can Actually Commit to for a Healthier New Year

The post 10 Healthy Recipes to Keep Your Resolutions This Year appeared first on Clean Plates.

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1. Cozy Celery Soup

Courtesy of The Endless Meal

This soup, centered about the underrated celery, is made up of only six ingredients and only takes 30 minutes to make. At just 566 mg of sodium (25% of a daily intake), this vividly green soup is also budget-friendly with just potatoes and onion rounding out the major vegetables included in this recipe.

Try the recipe at The Endless Meal.

2. Cream of Broccoli Soup

Courtesy of Cookie and Kate

Continuing on the trend of vegetable soups, this cream of broccoli soup is surprisingly filling as well as satisfying with rich flavors and a hefty serving of folic acid and Vitamin B6. If you’re concerned about the creamy texture lowering the health factor of this soup, do not fret. The creamy nature of the soup is from just a bit of butter and optional cream if so needed. Add in some garlic and onions for a nice kick and this soup is sure to get you feeling warm from head to toe with just a few slurps.

Try the recipe at Cookie and Kate.

3. White Bean and Kale Soup

Courtesy of Primavera Kitchen

This soup is comfort in a bowl. White beans fill out this hearty dish that’s packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin K thanks to the secondary ingredient — kale. Vegetables like onion, celery and butternut squash are also included in this recipe to give added nutritional value without overloading on sodium. Add in some lean group beef for protein, and this soup will surely become a staple this wintery season.

Try the recipe at Primavera Kitchen.

4. Chicken Noodle Soup

Shutterstock

This list couldn’t be complete without a chicken noodle soup recipe, right? This recipe puts every single can of grocery store chicken noodle soup to shame. Canned chicken noodle soup will typically run you around 830 milligrams of sodium for a one cup serving (which is about half to a third of the recommended daily intake). This homemade chicken noodle soup recipe, you can use reduced-sodium broth to control your salt intake. Add as much chicken or vegetables like carrots and celery to up the fiber and protein count.

Try the recipe at Clean Plates.

5. Butternut Squash Soup Recipe

Shutterstock

This buttercup squash soup is a comforting and nutritious option when you’re looking for a nourishing winter soup that also provides a range of health benefits.

The main vegetable in this soup, butternut squash, provides rich in essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, which promotes good vision, healthy skin, and a strong immune system. Additionally, it contains high levels of vitamin C, which supports collagen production and boosts the immune system.

Try the recipe at Clean Plates.

Read next: 31 Healthy Soup Recipes For Every Day This Month

The post 5 Low-Sodium Soup Recipes Perfect For a Winter Dinner appeared first on Clean Plates.

Ground pork is an omnivore’s secret weapon. It’s often overlooked in the grocery store, but it’s one of the easiest and most enticing ways to add quick flavor to dishes. An added bonus is that ground pork is an excellent source of protein and has other nutritional benefits. It is an extremely lean meat. In fact, the pork we eat today contains a third less fat than it did thirty years ago, thanks to new feeding systems and breeding techniques.

When shopping, ask your butcher to grind the meat for you. Ground pork usually comes from pork shoulder, also known as Boston butt, and when freshly ground, provides optimal texture. You’ll also be able to specify the fat percentage you’d like (super lean contains less than 10% of fat). If you buy a pre-wrapped package, look for pork that has a pinkish color (not gray), and keep in mind that it will likely have a higher fat content.

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1. Pork and cabbage potstickers

Courtesy of Healthy Nibbles and Bits

One of our favorite ground pork recipes is this one for cabbage dumplings. Adding starch to bind the pork mixture together before cooking helps the meat retain water, resulting in a juicier and entirely more delectable filling. Tapioca starch, also sold as cassava starch, contains no fat or cholesterol and is low in sodium. It’s an excellent alternative to corn starch in most recipes. To turn this into a meal, serve it with an Asian-style slaw or a large green salad.

Try the recipe at Healthy Nibbles and Bits.

2. Butternut Squash Lasagna Rolls

Courtesy of Nourish Nutrition

Frozen spinach and breakfast pork sausage are two flavorful conveniences when you want to save time, making this ground pork recipe an impressive and easy dinner to whip up on a weeknight. Go one further and look for pre-cubed butternut squash in your grocery store to cut down on prep. If you like spinach, consider doubling the amount called for. Frozen spinach is a stealthy nutritional powerhouse; one cup of frozen has more than four times more nutrients — like fiber, iron, and calcium — than one cup of fresh.

Try the recipe at Nourish Nutrition.

3. Lemongrass Meatball Bowls

Courtesy of Pinch of Yum

Grain bowls have been a staple of healthy diets for at least a decade, with so many versions on the scene. But this báhn mì bowl is especially clever as it transforms the Vietnamese pork sandwich, a decadent affair with crusty bread and pork shoulder, into something more healthful. Pickling the carrots ahead of time is worth the effort, as it adds a nice zing. The spicy meatballs are enhanced with lemongrass paste, which nowadays is sold in a squeeze bottle in the produce section at the grocery store.

Try the recipe at Pinch of Yum.

4. Easy Pork and Vegetable Lo Mein

Courtesy of 100 Days of Real Food

While chow mein is the most famous Chinese dish in the U.S., its cousin, lo mein, lives in its shadow. Lo mein means “tossed noodles” in Chinese. In this recipe, the method of quickly tossing the fresh egg noodles in the sauce at the end is healthier than chow mein, which is always fried (chow mein literally means “fried noodles”). When combined with succulent ground pork, nutrient-rich purple cabbage, and lime-peanut sauce, all you need is a glass of Riesling, and you can call it done. A supper made in heaven.

Try the recipe at 100 Days of Real Food.

5. Guinness Pork Burgers

Courtesy of The Healthy Epicurean

Yes, this recipe uses beer in both the barbecue sauce and the burgers. And why not? There is something undeniably delicious about the combo of Guinness and ground pork, the mellow roasted flavor it adds to the meat. It turns out the famous Irish stout contains antioxidants that can help reduce cholesterol (not to mention bring good luck in the kitchen). This may be the most indulgent ground pork recipe on our list. But the serving size is small, and the barbecue sauce is homemade, so you’ll avoid all that icky corn syrup in the processed stuff. Consider making extra and slathering it on everything.

Try the recipe at The Healthy Epicurean.

6. Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Courtesy of Summer Yule

Nearly every Eastern European grandma has a recipe for beloved stuffed cabbage rolls. Here, the components are deconstructed for a fun modern twist. The beef contributes an assertive meatiness, but the ground pork adds dimension and depth. Blending the two types of meat is a famous trick to boost the flavor of meatballs, meatloaf, and the like. Cauliflower rice stands in for white rice, a vitamin-rich alternative with a mild cabbage-y undertone that compliments the cabbage in this dish – it’s worth trying even if you’re not low carb.

Try the recipe at Summer Yule.

7. Pork and Mushroom Burger Wraps

Courtesy of Love and Olive Oil

Eating your burger wrapped in large lettuce leaves with your hands is sort of messy, but it’s extra tasty and eliminates refined carbs from your burger-eating experience. Crisp Bibb lettuce is a lovely contrast to grilled patties studded with earthy chopped mushrooms. This is the second dish on our list of ground pork recipes that employ lemongrass, an ingredient often paired with pork in Thai cuisine. The Southeast Asian plant possesses antibacterial and antifungal properties and is known to aid in digestion. You can find fresh lemongrass stalks in the produce aisle of most supermarkets.

Try the recipe at Love and Olive Oil.

8. Indian Meatball Curry

Courtesy of The Endless Meal

A potent blend of curry powder, ginger, cumin, and garlic are sautéed in hot oil to bloom their flavors, adding complexity to this meatball entrée, not to mention cancer-fighting properties. The unlikely combination of meatballs and curry may leave you scratching your head, but it’s perfection. Two warm and wonderful comfort foods collide. The recipe uses beef, but we prefer it with pork or a magic mixture of pork and beef (one part pork to two parts beef) for the most flavorful results.

Try the recipe at The Endless Meal.

9. Pork-Stuffed Mushrooms with Avocado Mayo

Clean Plates

This is one for chorizo lovers who don’t love all the fillers and fat in the store-bought version. The Mexican sausage’s distinctively warm and spicy taste is easily recreated with the right spices — six of them to be exact — and lean ground pork. Large portobello mushrooms are the perfect vessels, turning the standard stuffed mushroom appetizer into a main course. Mushrooms’ nutritional value is sometimes dismissed, but recent studies show they’re an excellent source of often-forgotten nutrients, such as vitamin D and potassium.

Try the recipe at Clean Plates.

Read next: 11 Healthy (and Delicious) Chicken Thigh Recipes 

The post 9 Healthy Ground Pork Recipes You’ll Obsess Over appeared first on Clean Plates.

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1. Crispy Air Fryer Breakfast Potatoes

Courtesy of What Molly Made

Kick off your day with a crispy delight! These air fryer breakfast potatoes boast a golden exterior and a fluffy interior, creating the perfect sidekick to your morning eggs.

Try this recipe from What Molly Made.

2. Air Fryer Hard Boiled Eggs

Courtesy of Food Faith Fitness

Speaking of eggs, did you know that you can make hard boiled eggs in the air fryer? The air fryer method ensures consistent results every time, making your protein-packed breakfast even more accessible.

Try this recipe from Food Faith Fitness.

3. Banana Bread Blended Baked Oats

Courtesy of Daisybeet

Elevate your oatmeal game with these blended baked oats that taste like banana bread. Prepared in the air fryer, this breakfast treat is a wholesome and comforting way to start your day.

Try this recipe from Daisybeet.

4. Air Fryer Omelette

Courtesy of Nourished by Nic

In just 10 minutes, you can have a fluffy and customizable omelette thanks to the air fryer. Load it with your favorite ingredients for a hearty morning meal.

Try this recipe from Nourished by Nic.

5. Air Fryer Breakfast Sandwich

Courtesy of Nourished by Nic

Forget the drive-thru! Create a delicious breakfast sandwich in the air fryer, complete with crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a perfectly cooked egg.

Try this recipe from Nourished by Nic.

6. Air Fryer Breakfast Cookie

Courtesy of Salty Side Dish

Yes, you read it right—a breakfast cookie made in the air fryer. Packed with oats, nuts, and fruits, it’s a grab-and-go morning treat.

Try this recipe from Salty Side Dish.

7. Air Fryer Blueberry Muffins

Courtesy of Clean Eating Kitchen

Fluffy and bursting with blueberries, these air fryer blueberry muffins are a delightful way to sweeten your mornings.

Try this recipe from Clean Eating Kitchen.

8. Air Fryer Granola

Courtesy of Healthful Blonde

Create crunchy and golden granola in the air fryer for a delightful topping to yogurt or a quick on-the-go breakfast.

Try this recipe from Healthful Blondie.

Read next: 7 Healthy Trader Joe’s Foods You Can Pop in the Air Fryer

The post 8 Air Fryer Breakfast Recipes to Start Your Day Right appeared first on Clean Plates.

People on a Mediterranean Diet, which is a way of eating based on how those in Spain, Italy, and Greece eat as a lifestyle, eat lots of fish, seafood, vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, legumes, and extra virgin olive oil but avoid too much red meat, poultry, eggs, cheese, and yogurt while limiting refined grains, sugar, refined oils, and other processed foods.

Sounds pretty delicious, right? Like a holiday in the Mediterranean? Well, that’s essentially what it is thanks to these easy Mediterranean Diet dinner recipes.

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1. Tabbouleh

Courtesy of Planted In the Kitchen

This is a bright and flavorful dish that fits the Mediterranean diet perfectly. Enjoy herbs like fresh parsley and lots of fresh vegetables. Quinoa, which is minimally processed, adds texture, and it is dressed with a simple blend of lemon juice and olive oil.

Try the recipe from Planted In the Kitchen.

2. Strawberry Salad With Basil and Lemon

Courtesy of AudreyThena Food Goddess

Salads don’t need to be boring. This salad is bright and colorful, with strawberries, walnuts, and hemp seeds mixed with greens like spinach and arugula. After being tossed in lemon and basil, it is finished off with a simple balsamic vinaigrette. This recipe works if you’re on the Mediterranean diet, because it stays clear of red meat and poultry, and supplies a healthy amount of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and olive oil.

Try the recipe from AudreyThena Food Goddess.

3. Piyaz, Turkish White Bean Salad

Courtesy of New York Shuk

This recipe, from Ron & Leetal Arazi of New York Shuk, is a beautiful example of how plant-based eating does not have to be one-note, or boring. It uses a generous amount of olive oil, which is mixed with pantry-friendly beans and kalamata olives, and garnished with the bold citrus flavor of preserved lemons.

Try the recipe from New York Shuk.

4. Mediterranean Buddha Bowl

Courtesy of The Candida Diet

A quick and healthy meal doesn’t have to leave you unsatisfied. This bowl is balanced and nutrient-dense, with everything from fluffy grains to colorful veggies, cool, and a spicy tahini dressing in one colorful and inviting bowl.

Try the recipe from The Candida Diet. 

5. Tomato and Feta Tuna Salad

Courtesy of Homan at Home

A tuna sandwich may sometimes hit the spot, but it’s not really the intended spirit of the Mediterranean Diet. This quick and simple salad is ready in just a few minutes and incorporates the tomatoes and tuna of a basic sandwich but in a much more carb-friendly whole grain pita, along with the addition of feta for a heart-healthy and delicious fat.

Try the recipe from Homan at Home.

6. Mediterranean Grilled Vegetables

Courtesy of Cook Like a Master

Another beautiful lunch idea, this mixes fresh veggies and tart lemon with savory spices and some olive oil for a perfectly light spin on veggie kabobs. These handheld meals can be just as hearty without red meat or cheese!

Try the recipe from Cook Like a Master.

7. Baked Salmon Pesto

Courtesy of Garlic & Zest

Lean seafood is a big aspect of this diet, and this easy Baked Salmon Pesto recipe only requires four ingredients and is ready to eat in 20 minutes. The basil pesto keeps this salmon tasting garlicky and savory, for a meal that will be delightful with steamed veggies or over a salad.

Try the recipe from Garlic & Zest.

Read next: 12 Delicious Lebanese Recipes to Spice Up Your Mediterranean Diet

The post 7 Mediterranean Diet Dinner Recipes in 30 Minutes or Less appeared first on Clean Plates.

The study, published by Tufts University researchers in Nature Communications, evaluated the quality of diets for around 48,000 subjects using Food Compass scores. The Food Compass provides a score for a food based on its nutritional value including nutrient ratios, ingredients used, vitamins, minerals, if the food was processed or includes additives, and more. When surveying the diets of each subject, researchers found that subjects with higher Food Compass scores (meaning higher quality foods in their diet) experienced lower blood pressure, blood sugar, blood cholesterol, body mass index, and hemoglobin A1c levels. They also experienced a lower risk of metabolic syndrome and cancer.

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Here’s what’s particularly interesting: while the Food Compass scores are evaluated based on numerous factors regarding nutritional value, it actually omits “outdated attributes” such as total calories. Instead of focusing so much on energy intake, the Food Compass looks at food from a holistic, quality perspective.

“Diet quality matters as there is scientific evidence that a low-quality diet with a large intake of highly processed foods is more closely associated with type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and other comorbidities,” Maggie Michalczyk, RDN, founder of Once Upon a Pumpkin. “A high-quality diet abundant with minimally processed, whole foods may improve overall health outcomes not to mention lower our risk for different diseases and conditions.”

So…does this solve the age-old debate of quality versus quantity? Does a diet focusing on quality and ditching the calorie-counting apps actually the solution for long-term health?

Focus on quality and everything else falls into place.

Michalczyk says that when it comes to eating a quality diet, the “quantity” aspect will actually follow suit, given the types of foods you are (or aren’t) consuming.

“Many studies show that overall lower caloric intake may be an outcome of eating a high-quality diet due to the fact that highly processed foods typically are high in calories and low in nutrition,” says Michalczyk. ”A high-quality diet includes wholesome unprocessed foods which are usually lower in calories and packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. In the long run, eating a high-quality diet may give you a bang for your buck with both higher nutrient value and lower caloric intake.”

If you’re looking to boost the quality of your meals, an easy way to get started is by implementing nutritious, whole foods into your daily meals.

“That may look like eating whole foods for breakfast such as avocado, eggs, and oatmeal, or dinner with salmon and greens,” Michalczyk says.

Snacks are also key for staying satiated throughout the day and can be an easy way to get in that extra boost of nutrition—like apples with almond butter, or celery with guacamole.

Related: The Best Snack Combination for Your Blood Sugar

Focus on consistency, not perfection.

While the Food Compass scores were high for subjects that ate a quality diet, they weren’t exactly perfect, which is key when thinking about eating a healthy diet long term. According to Michalczyk, it’s about being consistent most of the time while giving yourself the freedom to still enjoy foods you love.

“You should always include all foods you love in your diet with mindfulness of what is going to make you feel your best,” she says. “There will be weeks when this feels easy to do and other times when you might be eating a little less nutritious and that’s ok, that’s part of the balance and flexibility that comes with a low-stress relationship with food. Making healthy choices overall and creating a balance that works for you will help ensure that you’re reaping the benefits of a nutritious diet without striving for perfection.”

Plus, by incorporating more nutritious foods while still not restricting yourself, you may feel less stressed around food in the long run. Michalczyk says you may even find yourself gravitating towards those whole foods over time.

“After seeing how good they make you feel on a daily basis allows you to find a natural and intuitive balance between nutritious and foods that are considered more like treats,” she says.

Read next: 7 Healthy Dinners That Take 15 Minutes or Less — with No Pre-Cooked Ingredients

The post Forget Calories! Here’s Why Diet Quality Matters More, Study Says appeared first on Clean Plates.

“Magnesium is an electrolyte that plays a role in blood pressure regulation, muscle and nerve function, protein synthesis, and bone cell regeneration,” says London. “While its role in the body is crucial — it’s involved in hundreds of chemical reactions in the body! — it’s estimated that about half of Americans aren’t consuming enough of it.”

There are lots of supplements and health products that can boost your magnesium intake and help support these vital life processes. Pureboost, for example, is an all-natural energy drink that boasts an impressive 25% of the recommended daily magnesium intake. There are also electrolyte mixes and drinks, like this one from Protekt and this canned watermelon water Mela Water, both of which feature magnesium, potassium, and sodium without added sugars.

On the other end of the spectrum, there are recovery drinks like Nuun Rest, and relaxation supplements like neuroSleep, which promote natural rest and recovery with magnesium.

While these kinds of supplements aid in magnesium intake, London says whole foods and natural dietary sources are still important because they provide the best format for metabolization.

“While dietary supplements can be useful as exactly that — to supplement, not replace, dietary intake — food sources of magnesium are the most biologically efficient source and have the added benefit of providing additional nutrients that your body needs for you to feel your best,” explains London.

Here are five drinks high in magnesium you probably already have at home that can help you get more of this mineral into your diet.

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1. Tea

Time for a spot of tea and a boost of magnesium. A 2021 study in Molecules concluded that the antioxidant activity of tea is related to the presence of magnesium and potassium. Of the teas studied, green tea was shown to have the highest concentration of both phenolic compounds and magnesium, and it also presented the most antioxidant activity.

2. Citrus juice

While supplement powders and sports drinks often do include magnesium, naturally occurring magnesium is typically a better choice. Grapefruit and orange juice both feature about 6% of the recommended daily value of magnesium, making them an excellent option to include in your regular diet.

Just be sure to choose full juice options with no added sugars. Jaclyn London explains that fruit juices provide more bang for the buck than sports drinks.

“For optimizing your intake of magnesium, a 100% fruit juice without added sugar will provide more per serving and provide a wider variety of vitamins and minerals from the fruit itself,” she says.

3. Prune juice

Also in the juice category, prune juice provides 30 milligrams of magnesium per cup, or about 8% of the daily recommended value, bringing prune juice in slightly higher than its citrus juice counterparts.

Additionally, prune juice features fiber, sorbitol, and potassium, making it a digestive-friendly choice.

4. Hot chocolate with raw cacao

Milk chocolate and dark chocolate are both good sources of magnesium; however, for a true magnesium density, consider something like raw cacao, which is thought to be among the richest sources of magnesium on the planet. This hot chocolate recipe stars cacao powder and maple syrup, a delicious and cozy choice to keep you warm all winter.

5. Bone broth

Another great addition for colder months, bone broth features a slew of vitamins and minerals, making it a perfect choice for savory sipping.

Kristen Carli, MS, RD, explains that bone broth provides many critical nutrients. “Because bone broth is made from animal bones, it is high in magnesium, potassium, omega 3 fatty acids, calcium, and more.”

Read next: The Best 7 Vitamin C Drinks, According to Dietitians

The post 5 Drinks High in Magnesium, Say Dietitians appeared first on Clean Plates.

The darker meat found in chicken thighs is actually packed with tons of nutrients — way beyond protein. Chicken thighs contain vitamin E, more iron per 100 grams than rump steak, and they’re a valuable source of lysine, B vitamins, and unsaturated fats. Moreover, chicken thighs are delicious, and they’re far less fussy to prepare than chicken breasts. Feel free to remove the skin if you prefer, but do leave those bones in when you can — they lend flavor and are easily plucked from tender, cooked meat.

To help you on your chicken thigh journey, we’ve pulled together some of our favorite healthy chicken thigh recipes that prove this protein can be healthy and easy to prepare.

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1. One-Pan Garlic Chicken Thighs

Image credit: The Dinner Bite

Although this recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken thighs, you can absolutely use bone-in, skin-on to maximize flavor. If you ask us, garlicky chicken is pretty inherently delicious and a great weeknight meal. We’d serve these juicy thighs with sautéed green beans or roasted broccoli with a squeeze of lemon over the whole plate.

Try the recipe from The Dinner Bite.

2. Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Brussels Sprouts

Image credit: Little Sunny Kitchen

We love a sheet pan dinner — it’s basically hands-off as soon as the prep is finished. Roasting these chicken thighs with Brussels sprouts, onion wedges, and garlic means that your protein is ready at the same time as your vegetables, and everything is all the more flavorful for the time spent together. If you’re not occupied elsewhere while your oven does the heavy lifting, consider stirring up a pot of barley or bulgur to serve alongside healthy carbohydrates that will soak up all those flavorful pan juices.

Try the recipe from Little Sunny Kitchen.

3. Pomegranate Chicken Thighs

Image credit: Waves In The Kitchen

We love the sticky, tart-meets-sweet ingredient that is pomegranate molasses. This skillet dish bathes chicken thighs in rich, fruity flavor — which is well-balanced thanks to a dash of balsamic vinegar and a few cloves of garlic. Skip the honey if you’d rather tone down the sweetness, then pair the thighs with an herbaceous grain salad like tabbouleh.

Try the recipe from Waves In The Kitchen.

4. Wine-Braised Chicken Thighs with Mushrooms

Image credit: The Mediterranean Dish

Loads of garlic and shallots — along with a good glug of whatever wine you’ve got open — promise a flavor-packed healthy meal with this braised chicken dish. We’d go ahead and remove the skin if you don’t have time to sear the chicken thighs prior to braising, and don’t be shy about doubling the amount of sautéed mushrooms. They always cook down more than you think!

Try the recipe from The Mediterranean Dish.

5. Five-Spice Roasted Chicken Thighs

Image credit: The Woks of Life

Chinese five spice powder is a pantry must-have, and these roasted chicken thighs are everything we want when we’re craving something flavorful and comforting. Serve with brown rice and a steamed green of your choice — broccoli, bok choy, snap peas, or cabbage would all work nicely here — and dinner is a done deal.

Try the recipe from The Woks of Life.

6. Cilantro-Lime Chicken Thighs

Image credit: All The Healthy Things

Though you can definitely use bone-in thighs here, we might actually go ahead and either debone or buy boneless thighs as this cilantro-lime chicken recipe calls for. Sure, they’re easier to eat that way, but we’ve got a big salad in mind for these zesty thighs. After cooking, shred the meat using either two forks or your hands, then incorporate it into a salad with queso fresco, red onion, sweet corn, and pickled jalapeños.

Try the recipe from All The Healthy Things.

7. Mediterranean Roast Chicken Thighs

Image credit: Chocolate Moosey

This recipe is packed with tangy, acidic delights like olives, tomatoes, and plenty of garlic, which puts it squarely on our will-make-again list. Serve with a farro salad packed with crunchy cucumber and roasted red peppers for a fresh, healthy dinner.

Try the recipe from Chocolate Moosey.

8. Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Image credit: Shutterstock

Air fryers and chicken thighs were made for each other. The skin gets super crispy if you choose to leave it on, and if not, you’re sure to have juicy chicken in less time than it takes to preheat your oven and wait for the thighs to roast. Season however you like — lemon pepper, za’atar, paprika, white pepper, and five spice, to offer just a few examples — with just the tiniest bit of olive oil and let the air fryer do its thing. While you wait, why not sautée sliced zucchini with a little garlic and lemon zest?

Try the recipe from Happy Foods Tube.

9. Gochujang Chicken

Image credit: My Korean Kitchen

Gochujang is a delicious fermented Korean chili paste, and this recipe uses it — along with gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) — to create a vibrant marinade. If you don’t have access to an actual grill, use a grill pan on your cooktop, or finish off the thighs in your air fryer or oven. Serve with roasted sweet potatoes and sliced spring onion, and enjoy.

Try the recipe from My Korean Kitchen.

10. Coconut Turmeric Chicken

Image credit: A Saucy Kitchen

Though you can use reduced-fat coconut milk with these chicken thighs, using the full-fat stuff lends a richer, more satisfying flavor and texture. We love that this dish incorporates kale for a nutrient boost, and we’d throw in a little diced red onion to complement the fresh ginger and garlic. This recipe doesn’t need much else once it’s finished, but you could totally add a little brown rice or barley on the side.

Try the recipe from A Saucy Kitchen.

11. Spinach and Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Thighs

Image credit: Jo Cooks

Yes, stuffing your chicken thighs takes a little extra time and forethought in the kitchen, but we think it’s worth it for this tasty twist on a healthy dish. If you don’t have a firm, melty cheese on hand, ricotta would work nicely with the spinach. For a lighter take, skip the cheese on top and serve the baked thighs with a green salad instead of mashed potatoes or rice.

Try the recipe from Jo Cooks.

Read next: 10 Healthful Chicken Soups from Around the World

The post 11 Healthy (and Delicious) Chicken Thigh Recipes  appeared first on Clean Plates.

But don’t worry, we’ve done the hard work for you and found a healthy banana bread recipe that’s moist and delicious.

Photo Credit: Cookie and Kate

The Tastiest, Healthiest Banana Bread Recipe

This healthy banana bread from Cookie and Kate checks all the boxes: It tastes like bananas (a must, in our book), is just-sweet-enough, and it’s so tender — which isn’t always easy to achieve with whole-grain flour. It’s also super versatile, which means there’s plenty of room to make it your own.

Here’s what makes this banana bread recipe uniquely healthy:

It uses better-for-you sweeteners: This particular banana bread gets its sweetness from maple syrup or honey. Use whichever you have on hand, or mix the two. Or, if you can find it and want to bring more of a molasses-like depth of flavor, use date syrup. (They often offer date syrup on the cheap at Lidl.)

It uses better-for-you flour: Kate’s banana bread is written for white whole wheat flour, which is a great way to add more whole grains into your baking. You can make this with a gluten-free flour blend, too, if you’d like. For something different, try spelt flour, which is easier to digest than all-purpose flour but produces baked goods that are more tender than those typically made with 100-percent whole wheat flour.

It uses healthier fats: Rather than butter, this recipe calls for unrefined oil. You can use extra virgin coconut oil, which is nice if you’re wanting to play up tropical flavors and add shredded coconut to the loaf. Or try using extra virgin olive oil.

Make It Your Own

You can make this recipe as is, but banana bread is so good with a 1/2 cup of toasted walnuts or pecans mixed in. Or mini-chocolate chips (if you’re feeling decadent), dried cranberries or raisins, or some unsweetened shredded coconut. I like to add 2 tablespoons of ground flax meal because it makes everything taste better, from oatmeal and pancakes to banana bread and smoothies. It’s also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, decrease inflammation in the body and help the brain function optimally.

Get the recipe: Healthy Banana Bread! from Cookie + Kate

The post This Healthy Banana Bread Is So Moist and Delicious appeared first on Clean Plates.