DIETITIAN’S CORNER – HEALTHY CHRISTMAS TREATS!

Berry Christmas Wreath

berry-christmas-wreath-framed-450This is an easy, healthy and fun snack to make. When you use your favourite toppings and fruit, the combinations can be endless! An apple corer will help make a perfect circle for the wreath. Otherwise, parents can use a knife to take out the core and then kids can have fun with the decorating!

 

 

1 apple

25ml (2 tbsp) low fat yogurt cheese (see instructions below) or peanut butter

9 blackberries or raspberries, halved

9 cherries, pitted and halved

Fresh mint leaves (optional)

Using an apple corer or knife, remove core of apple, cut 5 or 6 slices.  Spread each slice with yogurt cheese (see below) or peanut butter, and top with alternating berries and cherries.  Garnish with mint to serve.

You can also substitute low fat cream cheese mixed with yogurt for the topping.

To make yogurt cheese: Pour 1 tub (650 g) of plain yogurt into a cheesecloth-lined sieve set over a bowl. Cover and refrigerate at least 6 hours or overnight. This will allow the liquid to drain out of the yogurt, leaving a thick and creamy cheese. Place yogurt cheese into a sealed container and refrigerate until needed. Makes about 375ml (1-1/2 cups).

 

 

Cinnamon Roasted Almonds

cinnamon-toasted-almonds-600Almonds are a fantastic source of Omega-3 fatty acids, as well as a good source of fiber and vitamin E.  Combined with cinnamon, which contains anthocyanins which can help improve capillary function, this tasty treat is good for you! Cinnamon can help to reduce inflammation, can help regulate blood sugar, and can help improve digestive function.

 

½ tsp salt

1-1/2 tsp cinnamon plus ½ tsp reserved

2 cups raw almonds

2 tbsp vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 300 degrees.

Line a cookie sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.  Place almonds in a large bowl.  Stir in vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.  Spread the almonds in a single layer on the lined cookie sheet.  Bake at 350 degrees F for 15-18 minutes.  Remove from oven and allow to cool completely.  Dust with reserved 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon.  Store in a sealed container.

Contact