Is Apple the New Cherry?
With the ability to cross over from season to season and the versatility to be the foundation of a variety of comforting, homey desserts and snacks that are eaten hot or cold, fresh or prepared, it's no wonder apples are a top pick among consumers.
Aside from their versatility, apples have long been considered a wise food choice. With fiber and phytonutrients, the apple provides a host of health benefits that help arm against heart disease, stroke, diabetes and even asthma.
As a result, it's no surprise apple-based snacks are cropping up in coffee shops, restaurants and grocery stores nationwide. Even Weight Watchers includes the apple in their snack line with the Caramel Apple Muffin.
So, how can you get apples back in your diet? From having them alone or as a snack, to including them in recipes or for dessert, apples have endless possibilities. Here are a few tips from the U.S. Department of Agriculture:
* Buy fresh apples in season when they may be less expensive and at their peak flavor.
* Try different textures of apples, from fresh and crunchy, to pureed in applesauce or dried as a snack.
* Sample apples with other flavors such as peanut butter, caramel and cinnamon.
* For a great snack idea, try spreading peanut butter on apple slices.
* Add a little toss to your apple with a Waldorf salad. Add celery, walnuts, apples (Granny Smith apples work best) and light dressing.
* Set the example by eating fruit either with meals or as a snack every day.
* Decorate your serving dishes with sliced apples in a variety of colors such as green, red and yellow.
* Instead of French fries, choose a fruit alternative when eating at a fast-food restaurant.
* Look for apples rich in color without bruising, soft spots or shriveling.
For more information, visit www.WeightWatchers.com/muffins or www.mypyramid.gov.
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