Go Green for Saint Patrick’s Day — and for Your Health
Green is synonymous with Saint Patrick’s Day, but the color is also associated with health — and for good reason. From trendy greens like kale and avocado to perennially popular friends like green beans and green bell peppers, you’re sure to find at least one green vegetable (or fruit) that you love!
This Saint Patrick’s Day, enjoy green fruits and veggies to celebrate the holiday and good health. To give you a few ideas to start from, here are a few of our favorite green produce items. Remember: eating more fruits and veggies matters!
Avocados contain monounsaturated fat and fiber, both of which promote heart health. Adding avocado will lend a creamy texture to casseroles and sauces. You can also use avocado as a substitute for mayo on sandwiches and as a dip for veggies or chips.
Celery is a good source of vitamin K as well as other micronutrients. Vitamin K not only helps our blood clot when we get injured, but it also plays a vital role in bone health! For added fiber and nutrition, enjoy whole celery instead of just the juice.
Green Bell Pepper
A single green pepper contains very few calories while delivering an excellent amount of vitamin C, which supports healthy skin. Vitamin C also helps promote a robust immune system, as does zinc (which bell peppers provide in small doses). Delicious fresh or when sautéed, green bell peppers pair perfectly with lean meats to create a healthy meal.
Green beans are one of the most popular American veggies and a staple in many family kitchens. A healthy veggie all around, green beans are convenient too: frozen and no-salt-added canned green beans are just as nutritious as fresh!
Kale and Spinach
Often referred to as superfoods, kale and spinach are greens that pack a nutritional punch thanks to high amounts of vitamins K and A. Vitamin A is especially important for healthy skin and vision.
Asparagus serves as a great source of folic acid and promotes healthy cells in our bodies. Try cutting asparagus spears into smaller pieces and adding them to any dish for more nutrition, flavor, and color!
Broccoli is a good source of fiber, and it also contains vitamins C and K. Many people enjoy broccoli fresh or steamed, but if you’re looking for something different, try adding broccoli to a casserole or roasting it in the oven by itself.
Not only is a kiwi a great source of potassium and vitamin C, but it’s fun to eat too. Try taking kiwi on the go for a healthier snack — just scoop out the flesh with a spoon and enjoy.
Pears are the perfect fruit to keep you feeling full thanks to their high fiber content. Be sure to eat the skin for added fiber. Pair your pear (no pun intended — well, maybe a little bit) with nuts or sliced cheese for a balanced snack.
Cucumbers are a vegetable that’s best enjoyed fresh. Simply wash, slice, and enjoy. You can also try adding sliced cucumber to water for alight beverage with a hint of refreshing flavor. And if you’ve got extra cucumbers left over, you can use them for a personal spa day.
Don’t Like Eating Greens? Get Your Greens by Drinking a Delicious Smoothie Instead
If you know greens are nutritious but you just can’t get into their flavor, give our Green Smoothie a try. We promise you’ll get all the health benefits along with an easy-drinking fruity taste!
- 1/4 cup water
- 3 or 4 ice cubes
- 1/2 banana
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple
- 6 ounces Greek yogurt
- 1 handful spinach or kale
- Add ingredients, in order listed, to a blender. Blend on high until smooth. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Visit Our Stores for All Your Favorite Green Foods!
Saint Patrick’s Day is the perfect time to develop a green-food habit that can promote health and wellness throughout the entire year. And you can always check our weekly ad for great deals on your favorite green produce.
Here’s to green foods and good health for St. Patrick’s Day!