Food: The Language of Love
With Valentine’s Day and Family Day on the calendar, it’s the perfect time to celebrate love and togetherness through food. Here are some ways to infuse healthy eating into these cherished moments.
Love on a Plate
Valentine’s Day is all about showing love, and what better way to do so than with a healthy, homemade meal? Skip the restaurant reservations and plan a cozy dinner at home.
Here’s a simple yet delicious menu idea:
- Starter – A beet and arugula salad with goat cheese and walnuts. Beets are not only heart-healthy but also a beautiful shade of red to match the day’s theme.
- Main Course – Baked salmon with a honey mustard glaze, served alongside quinoa and roasted asparagus. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health.
- Dessert – Chocolate-dipped strawberries. Use dark chocolate for its antioxidants and natural sweetness.
Bond Over Breakfast on Family Day
Family Day is a wonderful reminder to slow down and enjoy quality time. Start the day with a nutritious breakfast that everyone can enjoy together. Cooking together is part of the fun! Get the kids involved in the kitchen by having them gather ingredients and mix them together.
Whole-Grain Pancakes with Berry Compote
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole-wheat flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup milk (or plant-based alternative)
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
- 1 teaspoon honey
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder and cinnamon.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg and maple syrup. Combine with the dry ingredients.
- Cook pancakes on a non-stick pan over medium heat until bubbles form. Flip and cook until golden brown.
- For the compote, simmer berries and honey in a small saucepan until soft.
- Serve the pancakes topped with warm berry compote.
As we move through February, let’s remember that love comes in many forms, including the care we show through healthy meals and the time we share around the table. Happy love month!
Jenn Giurgevich is the founder of Spark Nutrition & Health, a virtual nutrition consulting business.
Visit www.sparknutritionandhealth.ca for more information.
