They say good food is the way to one’s heart. With February being National Heart Health month, why not celebrate Valentine’s Day with some healthy love. The foods below are not only delicious in taste, but also do wonders for your heart. This Valentine’s Day, combine these elements and let the food do the talking; as you try to reach your lover’s heart.
almond nut
Almonds are packed with protein and fiber. They also contain healthy oils and vitamins that help keep cholesterol levels under control. Almonds are very versatile. They make a great snack and are excellent in everything from savory to sweet dishes. They are great turned into almond butter to use as a truffle filling!
Blueberries
Blueberries are very good and have been named the best food to keep your heart healthy. They are packed with vitamin C, Beta-carotene, calcium and fiber among other nutrients. Add blueberries to oatmeal, salads, and marinades to add flavor to old favorites.
Cayenne pepper
This fiery spice will heat up more than just your Valentine’s Day! Cayenne pepper is known for its cardiovascular benefits. It helps with lowering cholesterol, triglycerides and helps prevent blood clots. Add cayenne pepper to your next dish for a healthy kick!
Red wine
Red wine is not only delicious but contains substances called polyphenols which are beneficial for heart health. Even though Valentine’s Day is a day of celebration, enjoy your wine in moderation. Studies show ½ cup to 1 cup is all it takes to be beneficial.
Dark chocolate
Contains reservatrol and cocoa phenols; these are flavonoids that have antioxidant power to keep your heart healthy. When choosing dark chocolate, it is important to choose a cocoa content of 70% or higher. So will a truffle a day keep the doctor away?
Try the Dark Chocolate Truffle recipe below!
Spiced Almond Butter Dark Chocolate Truffles
Recipe Type:
Produce:
12
preparation time:
Cook Time:
Amount of time:
These dark chocolate truffles are rich, so enjoying them in moderation is best when preserving your bikini body.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dark chocolate, divided into two equal parts and chopped
- 1/3 cup natural almond butter
- 3 tablespoons of skimmed milk
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Direction:
- Mix ½ cup. chocolate and milk in a microwave safe bowl. Heat for about 45 seconds, stirring every 15 second intervals. Remember that chocolate can burn quickly.
- Stir in the almond butter until well blended then add the cayenne pepper and stir.
- Freeze for at least 40 minutes or until the chocolate is hard enough to scoop up and form into truffle shapes (small balls). You can also freeze them in candy/truffle molds.
- Next, microwave the remaining ½ cup of chocolate in 15 second intervals until melted.
- Dip the shaped truffles into the melted chocolate, place them on the parchment paper and refrigerate until the chocolate hardens.
- *Tip: once the truffles have been dipped in melted chocolate, you can garnish them with a drizzle of white chocolate, a sprinkle of cocoa powder, or cayenne pepper to make them even more delicious!
Jessica Swift, Registered Dietitian in Washington DC. Chef Jess is an experienced chef with a Masters in Nutrition Science. He brings his expertise to many individuals, groups, and corporate arrangements in the Washington DC area. Follow him for healthy recipes and daily motivation Facebook And Twitter
