Lifestyle, Nutrition

Healthy Valentine’s Day Treats

Heart Shaped CukesValentine’s Day is a sweet holiday. No, I’m not talking about the nice things your significant other does for you (and vice versa). I’m talking, of course, about the candy, heart-shaped cookies, and all things chocolate-covered. Doesn’t it seem that with most holidays, sweets get to steal the show? This Valentine’s Day, think about giving healthier foods some love with these tips.

  • Wake up to heart-shaped eggs and toast. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the center of a piece of bread. Crack an egg into the center of the bread and cook in a skillet.
  • Make heart kabobs. Use a small heart-shaped cookie cutter on cantaloupe and watermelon and spear with wooden skewers. Serve with low-fat vanilla yogurt. If you’re feeling especially creative, you can use pineapple instead of melons, drizzle with honey, and place on the grill for a kebab with sizzle.
  • Impress your dinner guest. Cut bell peppers and zucchini into heart shapes, sauté with olive oil, top with your favorite seasoning, and serve as a healthy side dish.
  • Bring chocolate-covered strawberries to the office. Okay, so chocolate doesn’t necessarily fall under the health food category, but it’s okay to be a little sweet on Valentine’s Day. Use dark chocolate and try to cover just the tips of the berries.
  • Serve heart-shaped cucumbers and dip. Save the unused portions of cucumbers for a green smoothie.

With an open mind and a little creativity, this Valentine’s Day can be sweeter than ever—without all of the sugar.