I meant the fruit, but you knew that right? Seriously, I'm a FOOD WRITER! You'll be happy about my bait-and-switch when you realize dried
dates cure any sweet tooth. They're also crammed with nutrients. Check it out (and then read my 10 amazing ideas for stuffing dates below):
·
Soluble
and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber fills you up and prevents the absorption of
LDL (bad) cholesterol; insoluble fiber keeps your digestive system “regular”.
·
Flavonoid antioxidants known as tannins, which prevent infection and
inflammation.
·
Vitamin A, a powerful antioxidant that’s essential
for vision and healthy mucus membranes and skin. In fact, consuming foods rich
in vitamin A helps protect against lung and oral cancer.
·
Beta carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, three antioxidants
that protect the body’s cells from free radical damage, which ultimately
protects against colon, prostate, breast, endometrial, lung, and pancreatic
cancer. Zeaxanthin offers extra protection against age-related macular
degeneration, the leading cause of blindness in the elderly.
·
Iron,
which carries oxygen in the blood.
·
Potassium,
works with sodium to control heart rate and blood pressure.
·
Calcium,
important for strong bones and teeth.
·
Manganese,
used to help make antioxidant enzymes.
·
Copper, helps
produce red blood cells.
·
Magnesium,
essential for bone growth.
·
B vitamins, which help metabolize carbohydrates,
protein, and fats.
·
Vitamin K, essential for blood coagulation.
Wow! Quite a resume! Dried dates provide an ideal
vessel for fun and nutritious fillings.
Here are 10 stuffing ideas to get you started:
1. Cottage cheese and pistachios
2. Part-skim ricotta cheese and
cashews
3. Herbed goat cheese and almonds
4. Light cream cheese and toasted
pine nuts
5. Diced cantaloupe or honeydew melon
and fresh mint
6. Blue cheese or gorgonzola and
fresh sage
7. Marzipan/almond paste or chopped
toasted almonds and honey
8. Diced apples and pecans
9. Parmesan or Asiago cheese and
fresh basil
10 - Feta cheese and walnuts
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