Easy Ways to Eat More Veggies

The new year is well underway, making it the perfect time to develop healthier habits to carry out all year long. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), only one in ten adults receives enough vegetables in their diet. Eating enough fruits and veggies can help reduce the risk of health issues like heart disease, diabetes and so much more, while improving your overall wellness. Use these tips to increase the amount of veggies in your diet — and make eating them even more fun! 

Eat Breakfast 
As simple as it sounds, breakfast truly is the most important meal of the day. Breakfast gives you the energy to start your day while replenishing your body after sleep. Start your day off right with a nutritious breakfast that nurtures your body and mind. Try making these mini southwestern veggie and bean frittatas for a hearty breakfast you can make ahead and store in the freezer for up to three months. Prefer something sweet? Corn and blueberry waffles are a super unexpected way to add organic whole kernel corn into your family’s breakfast. 

Practice Meatless Monday 
Meatless Monday is a great way to challenge yourself to eat more vegetables, while also making a great choice for the environment. Eat a plant-based protein substitute, or even use Green Valley organic garbanzo beans as the main source of protein in your favorite dishes like tacos, chili, and so much more to cut back on meat consumption and tune into delicious veggies. 

Keep Canned Veggies on Hand 
Canned veggies are an easy, convenient way to guarantee your family gets the nutrients they need every day of the week. Green Valley organic veggies are an affordable, easy way to serve organic veggies for every meal. Stock up on Green Valley organic peas, cut green beans, French style green beans and whole kernel corn, now available at your local Whole Foods.

Incorporate Veggies into Snacks 
Next time you reach for a snack, reach for something made with wholesome, organic ingredients. Get creative and incorporate Green Valley organic vegetables and precooked rice into broccoli cheddar rice tots for an appetizer that is sure to please a crowd. For a crunchy, spicy, savory or sweet snack, roast Green Valley organic garbanzo beans to create a treat that is filled with plant-based protein. You can also add veggies to your favorite dips, like this white avocado-basil white bean guacamole dip. The possibilities are endless! 

Meal Prep 
Planning ahead is key when adopting healthy habits in the new year. Meal prepping is a great way to ensure you and your family get enough veggies each week, while limiting any possible stress that comes with finding healthy meal solutions. In addition to saving money on takeout and drive thru runs, meal prepping also helps to manage portion control, while also learning new recipes and saving time during the week. Make sure breakfast, lunch and dinner adds up to the recommended nine servings of veggies per day.

Dine In More 
Preparing meals at home is a foolproof way to make sure you’re getting all the healthy ingredients you want — and none of the ingredients you don’t. Plan for the week ahead before you head to the grocery store to make sure you have something ready to go for each night of the week. Research new recipes, and make a point of introducing your new dishes to your family to make eating veggies fun and exciting.

Reimagine Dessert 
Dessert doesn’t need to come with a side of guilt. Indulge in a healthy dessert like these peanut butter black bean brownies to see plants in a whole new light. You would be surprised to find how many ways you can incorporate corn, beans and other veggies into your favorite desserts without even noticing the difference.

How do you make sure you get your daily dose of veggies? Tell us for a chance to be featured on our Facebook or Instagram!