Some foods naturally make great partners. Peanut butter and chocolate; milk and cereal- pairings like this are legendary for how great they taste together, but did you know there are many pairings that are not as well known, but just as delicious? These combos may sound a little wacky to you at first, but give them a try! We are certain some of these crazy combos will be your new favorites!
Avocado + Pomegranate. The sweetness and tartness of pomegranate seeds will add a pop of unexpected flavor along with a little texture to your next bowl of guacamole. Plus, the healthy fat in avocado will help your body utilize the beneficial phytochemicals and antioxidants in the pomegranate seeds.
Dark Chocolate + Apple. The fiber and water content in apples helps turn a bit of dark chocolate into a filling snack. Even better, the compound quercetin found in apples combined with the flavonoids in dark chocolate create a double whammy of important antioxidants that are especially good for your heart (and your taste buds!). Try chopping up dark chocolate and sprinkling it over apple slices. Add crushed walnuts to make it even better tasting and better for you!
Banana + Kale. If you have ever turned your nose up at the idea of a green smoothie, maybe your new found confidence in crazy combinations will spur you on to give this a try. The bananas mean that this combo still tastes sweet while the kale gives you an easy way to get your greens!
Basil + Strawberries. Any time you can add herbs to your food you are automatically adding antioxidants. Surprisingly, basil’s unique flavor goes equally as well with the sweet taste of strawberries as it does with the savory taste of pasta. Take it from an afternoon snack into an afternoon project by trying to grow your own strawberries and basil in your backyard!
Almond Butter + Plain Greek Yogurt. Want an easy fruit dip packed with protein? Try stirring a couple of tablespoons of almond butter into a cup of plain Greek yogurt. Enhance the flavor by sprinkling in a bit of cinnamon and a teaspoon of honey!
Now that you have tried some of these yummy combos, don’t be afraid to try creating other unique pairings. To make your mixing more successful stick to combining only two ingredients at a time, only mix a small quantity of your creation until you are certain that you like the creation, and most of all be sure to get your parents’ permission before you begin your mixing! Be sure to share your favorite combinations with all the other Healthy Little Cooks on our Facebook page!