By Katy Dyer, RD
We are embarking upon one of the best times of the year: apple season! They are worth chomping on just because of their sweet and tart flavors, but luckily they are nutritious and very versatile as well. An apple is a simple and portable snack all on its own. During their peak season, consider adding them to baked goods, cereal, green salads, fruit salads and even soup. Apples are a good source of Vitamin C and fiber. Skip the juice and bite into a crunchy apple. You will get all the nutrition and fiber without added sugar.
Here’s some fun, healthy ideas for snacks and meals to get the most out of this wonderful time of year:
- Apple peanut butter sandwiches. Slice apple horizontally, spread peanut butter on apple flesh and place another apple slice on top.
- Diced apples on oatmeal with cinnamon.
- Cut apple into quarters, sprinkle cinnamon on top and microwave for one minute.
- Mix diced red apple into your favorite chicken salad recipe.
- Core an apple and slice horizontally to create thin apple rings. Spray a cookie sheet with non-stick spray or use parchment paper. Lay slices out flat in a single layer and sprinkle with cinnamon. Bake in 200°F for about an hour. Flip apple slices after 30 minutes.
- Make apple quesadillas for an after school snack or serve along with a vegetable to for dinner. Place a whole wheat flour tortilla flat on the counter. Fill half of it with shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 3-4 green apple slices. Folder over other side of tortilla and microwave or warm in skillet until cheese is melted. Whole grain bread can be substituted for the tortilla.
- Create a simple apple dip with a cup of nonfat plain yogurt and a teaspoon or cinnamon. The cinnamon could be substituted for apple pie spice or pumpkin pie spice.
Tell us – what is your favorite way to use apples?