Saturday is National Cheese & Wine Day and we can’t think of a better way to celebrate than by compiling a healthy (ish!) snack and beverage compilation fit for health-minded individuals.
Step 1: Cheese!
Start with the flavorful cheeses. Goat and mozzarella cheeses tend to naturally be lower in fat so they are great choices to feature. Other options we love: Trader Joe’s Mini Brie Bites, Babybel Light Cheeses, Cabot Light50 Sharp Cheddar Cheese and The Laughing Cow spreadable light cheese.
Step 2: Fruits and Vegetables
Add complimentary flavor with fruit and veggies. Make this part of your platter the most voluminous to keep the nutrient-density high and add an array of eye-catching color, flavor, and texture.
Some of our favorites: strawberries, cherries, blueberries, grapes, tricolor carrots, cherry tomatoes, sliced or mini bell peppers, sliced jicama, celery or cauliflower florets.
PRO Tip: Buy these prewashed and precut to save time in prep!
Step 3: Crackers
Feature choices in fibrous crackers. Crackers are really the vehicle for the other luscious flavors you feature in your healthy cheese board so opt for options which are high-fiber, low-calorie and add texture. A few of our favorite brands: Wasa, Flackers, Triscuit, Finn Crisp.
Step 4: Drinks
Add a palate cleanser in alternate beverages. Highlight some sparkling water, kombucha, tea or decaf coffee to add low-cal or calorie-free flavors to your meal. PRO Tip: alternate between drinks of wine and bubbly water to stay more hydrated throughout your meal.
Step 5: Healthy Fats
Sprinkle in fats. Incorporate a few whole roasted nuts but be modest. Remember that it can be difficult to mindfully eat a platter of food so opting for more calorie-dense options such as nuts to be a condiment vs. a main staple may be wise.
Remember – red wine is chocked full of antioxidants; low-fat cheese is high in protein and crackers can be full of filling fiber! So with the right mindset this day can be celebrated in style and in health.
I also suggest plating all your food then enjoying it vs. snacking so as to add an extra boost of mindful enjoyment to your meal!
By Erika DeRooy, PRO Medical Dietitian Services Manager and Registered Dietitian
PRO Medical’s Registered Dietitians provide personalized meal plans and education to support you in making realistic lifestyle changes and in achieving your individual goals. We have experts in a variety of areas and provide support for adults, pediatrics and families.
Check out more healthy tips and tricks from our team of Registered Dietitians here.
