Tag Archives: jicama

How to Cook with Jicama

Ever felt afraid of cooking with unfamiliar ingredients, like jicama? Well fear not because we’re digging into the health benefits of this versatile food, and showing you several cooking techniques and recipes so it can become a healthy staple in your kitchen in no time.

What is it? 

Jicama (pronounced HEE-KA-MUH) is a round, bumpy root vegetable that’s actually in the legume family. It can be recognized by its brown, paper-like skin and white starchy flesh. It’s similar in texture to an apple or celery and takes on the flavor of the dishes it’s added to incredibly well, much like water chestnuts in Asian food. Jicama is also commonly referred to as a yam bean or Mexican turnip or potato.

Health Benefits:

Jicama has fewer carbohydrates than a potato, making it a great option for those watching their weight. And it’s also high in fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and contains a lot of water to help you stay hydrated. (more…)

Healthy, No-Spoil Salads for Potlucks and Picnics

When you think of picnic salads, you probably think of fattening classics like coleslaw, potato salad and macaroni salad. Not only are these traditional salads laden with saturated fat and empty calories, they’re usually bound with mayonnaise, which makes them susceptible to spoilage.

Instead of looking to the usual suspects next time you’re asked to bring a dish to a potluck picnic, opt for something mayo-free that will keep well at room temperature and help you stick to a healthy diet.

Instead of coleslaw…

Apple Slaw: Full of fresh, crunchy apples and mixed with low-fat yogurt, this slaw has less than a hundred calories per serving and is a great alternative to a fuller-fat version.

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5 Foods You Aren’t Eating, but Should

Super foods are “so 2024.” There are just too many good-for-you foods out there to say that some (acai) are far better than others (blueberries). Nevertheless, Americans fall way below consuming the recommendations for vegetables and fruits and everyone could probably use a little “tune up” of their food choices. All veggies and fruits are good for ya, ’nuff said.

As you prepare for the new year, why not commit to changing it up. Here’s a list of five foods you should be eating if you aren’t already and a few ideas for enjoying them:

salmon1. Salmon

Why: Salmon is on my list because it is high in vitamin-D, omega-3 healthy fats, and is an excellent source of protein, which the body needs for muscle building and satiety, the full feeling. Salmon has more protein per ounce than hot dogs. So consider that next time you think it is too expensive. (more…)