8 Must-Try Lemon Cucumber Recipes

8 Must-Try Lemon Cucumber Recipes

Lemon Cucumber Recipes to Brighten Your Table

Did you grow some epic lemon cucumbers this year and find you have an excess amount? Or perhaps you picked up some lemon cucumbers from the farmers market and are now scratching your head about what to do with them.

Lemon cucumbers make excellent additions to salads, salsas, or sliced over sandwiches. But before I dive into 8 ways to use up your excess lemon cucumbers this summer, let’s cover some frequently asked questions!

 

Top down view of lemon cucumbers in a brown bowl atop an off white linen napkin. Half a lemon is sitting cut side up in the bowl.

 

FAQ (Ask a Dietitian!)

Some frequently asked questions about lemon cucumbers.

Do Lemon Cucumbers Taste Like Lemons?

No, lemon cucumbers do not taste like lemons. Theey have a mild, refreshing flavor, much like traditional fresh cucumbers.

What is lemon cucumber good for?

Lemon cucumbers are just like any other regular cucumber, like english cucumbers, they are amazing in salads, sandwiches, as a dipper, or pickled

Can you eat raw lemon cucumbers?

Yes, you can eat raw lemon cucumbers. I actually prefer to eat lemon cucumbers raw. That being said, you can also eat lemon cucumbers dehydrated, grilled, or roasted. 

 

A lemon cucumber sliced in half on a wooden cutting board. The knife is in the shot and some unsliced lemon cucumbers are off to the left.

Are lemon cucumbers burpless?

Lemon cucumbers are burpless, meaning they are non-bitter and contain very little cucurbitacin. Cucurbitacin is the compound that causes bitterness in cucumbers. 

 

Top down and close up view of lemon cucumbers on a blue plate

 

8 Easy Lemon Cucumber Recipe Ideas

Now, here are some easy healthy recipes that you can use with your next batch of lemon cucumbers or any other garden cucumbers you might have on hand.

Lemon Cucumber Salad

Maybe one of the easiest methods of using lemon cucumbers is in a simple salad. Just chop up your lemon cucumbers, add 1, 2, or 3 additional veggies, fruit, or herbs, then dress it up with an easy lemon vinaigrette made with fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and olive oil. Champagne vinegar or any other wine vinegar also makes for an excellent vinaigrette. Check out how I use lemon cucumbers in this recipe, Easy Lemon Cucumber Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

 

A top down view of lemon cucumber salad with sliced tomatoes, diced cucumbers, and green onion. A lemon wedge is to the left in the bowl.

 

Lemon Cucumber Salsa

Use lemon cucumbers like pepper or other cucumber varietal and add it to your salsa and pico de gallos. I love to take some sungold cherry tomatoes from my garden, chop them, and mix them into my lemon cucumber pico de gallo. The colors are like sunshine. 

Chopped Lemon Cucumbers in Simple Salads a Grain Bowl

When making a nutritious grain bowl, simply include some chopped lemon cucumbers. I might further spice it up with a little red chili flakes. Check out how you can use lemon cucumbers in this Greens and Ancient Grains Bowl. 

 

 

Easy-Bake-Tofu-Grain-Bowl

 

Sliced in a Sandwich

Lemon cucumbers are the perfect size to add to a sandwich. Slice the lemon cucumbers in thick rounds and add them to your sandwich. They add a wonderful cucumber crunch. Try a combination of flavors like seeded whole wheat bread, with a spread of pesto, sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, spinach, and oven-roasted turkey breast or baked tofu.

Smoothies

Got an excellent cucumber smoothie recipe? Use lemon cucumbers. They taste fantastic in my Green Juice Smoothie: The Best Morning Juice recipe.

 

Green-Juice-Smoothie

 

A Refreshing Summer Side Dish

Have a killer glaze or sauce when cool would taste fantastic drizzled over sliced cucumbers? Use that with some lemon cucumbers like this Garlic Sweet Soy Glaze Recipe. Further elevate this simple side with fresh herbs like mint, basil leaves, or cilantro. 

Refrigerator Pickle Recipes

These arent your usual pickles, they are refrigerator pickles using lemon cucumabers! 
Easy Lemon cucumber pickles are a super easy recipe. I love to use white vinegar, white wine vinegar, or apple cider vinegar with my cucumber slices when making pickles. You can easily make quick pickles with water, vinegar, and salt. You can also include ingredients like celery seeds, red onion, fresh dill and a tbsp of mustard seed.

 

Lemon Cucumber Pickles in a mason jar with 2 whole lemon cucumbers to the left of the jar

 

Dehydrated into “chips”

Lemon cucumber chips are innovative, fun, and a healthier alternative to potato chips. However, I do enjoy a little of both, the refreshing cucumber chip alongside a salty and crunchy potato chip with a little cool ranch dip! 

I use a NESCO Gardenmaster Pro to dehydrate my fruits and veggies. 

 

A plate of dehydrate cucumbers (cucumber chips) surround with a linin napkin, a bowl of ranch, and some green edible prop to the side. The plate is sitting on top of a two toned board.

 

Bonus: Infused Water

Lemon cucumber water offers a light lemon flavor, enhanced by slices of whole lemon, fresh basil, or mint leaves for a refreshingly hydrating twist. Perfect for a flavorful, cooling drink on a hot summer day. 

Featured and More Recipes

Lemon cucumber versatility and ability to enhance both taste and aesthetics of recipes make lemon cucumbers an exciting ingredient to explore across a wide range of culinary creations. Happy Cooking!

 

top down of cucumber and corn salad in a white bowl, on a blue checker napkin.

Author’s Note I’m Sarah Harper, MS, RD, LDN, a registered dietitian and recipe creator, and owner of The Addy Bean. Lemon cucumbers are one of my favorite summer garden finds! They are crisp, refreshing, and so easy to use. I put this roundup together to share simple, flavorful ways to enjoy them while they’re in season.
Is It Safe To Eat Tofu Everyday? Everything You Need To Know & Recipes

Is It Safe To Eat Tofu Everyday? Everything You Need To Know & Recipes

Is It Safe To Eat Tofu Everyday? Tofu Questions Answered & 16 Recipe Ideas

 

Whether you are eating tofu because you are vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, flexitarian, or just love tofu, this article is for you.

Now, let’s dive into some tofu questions and then 16 recipe ideas for your next tofu culinary adventure!

Is It Safe To Eat Tofu Everyday?

Tofu contains plant compounds called phytoestrogens (isoflavones) that are similar to the hormone estrogen, but they are much weaker—about 1,000 times weaker than the estrogen made by our bodies. Research shows that eating soy, even daily, does not significantly raise the risk of cancer or change hormone levels in healthy people.

In fact, some studies suggest that isoflavones may have health benefits. In places where people regularly eat soy, like in Asia, soy may help protect against certain diseases. Fears that soy could increase estrogen levels or cause hormone issues aren’t strongly supported by science. Most research has found no negative effects on hormone balance, fertility, or cancer risk from moderate soy intake.

Some research even suggests that isoflavones may have positive effects, particularly for postmenopausal women, as they can mildly mimic estrogen and help alleviate symptoms like hot flashes.

Is Tofu Vegan?

Yes! Tofu is a vegan food and is a popular choice among individuals looking to consume more plant-based protein. It is used in a wide variety of dishes as a meat or dairy substitute. 

However, some dishes like Mapo Tofu include animal protein like pork, it is important to check if ordering tofu dishes at restaurants is 100% plant-based if you follow a plant-based diet. It is always important to read the food labels of tofu products to ensure it is 100% plant-based if you follow a vegan diet. While most tofu is vegan-friendly there are some varieties like egg tofu that contain animal products. 

 

Glass noodle salad with crispy baked tofu laid overtop.

 

What is Tofu Made of?

The primary ingredient in tofu is soybeans. Soy milk is condensed into solid white blocks, a process similar to cheese making. Tofu can be made into various textures including silken, firm, and extra firm. 

Where Did Tofu Originate?

Tofu originated in China over 2000 years ago. You can learn a lot more about the theories of tofu’s origin here, on the Tofu Wikipedia page!

Is Tofu Healthy?

Tofu is a highly nutritious food and an excellent source of plant-based protein. As a bonus, tofu has all 9 essential amino acids. Something to note, the nutritional content of tofu can vary depending on the type (i.e. silken, firm, extra firm). 

Tofu has many health benefits. Approx. 3.5oz of firm tofu has ~144kcal and ~16g protein ~10g fat and ~3g carbohydrates with ~2g fiber. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals including calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, selenium, and B vitamins. Moreover, it is naturally low in sodium, and saturated fat, and is completely free of cholesterol. 

 

Creamy light green cilantro cashew dressing is sitting in a large bowl with crispy tofu.

 

16 Tofu Recipe Ideas

01 – Creamy Sauces

Whether it’s a sauce for dipping crackers or veggies, or a sauce for lasagna or pasta, tofu blended or crumbled into a sauce. 

Furthermore, the sauce can be customized to suit various cuisines and preferences making it a delicious addition to a wide range of vegan recipes. 

 

Cashew Caesar Dressing

02 – Vegan Nuggets

Tofu nuggets are a great way to use your air-fryer. These plant-based nuggests are a delicious, healthy, and plant-based alternative to chicken nuggets. 

03 – Tofu Tacos

Shredded tofu is delicious when sautéed and seasoned to your liking. Serve it in a tortilla with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, shredded lettuce, and cheese.

04 – Thick Sweet Smoothies 

Enjoy Silken Tofu in a smoothie. Just like with soups, silken tofu blends to create a smooth and creamy texture. It is a nutritional boost while remaining neutral in flavor. 

Try it as an addition to many smoothie recipes like my Berry Bliss Smoothie or search the web for one like Eating Well’s Coffee Banana Smoothie.

 

Berry Bliss Smoothie being poured into a decorative glass. The glass is almost completely full. The color of the smoothie is purple-blueish.

05 – Stir-fry with Veggies and Rice

Enjoy tofu sautéed in a stir-fry. Extra-firm and firm tofu’s texture makes for an ideal ingredient to withstand the high heat of stir-frying resulting in a crispy exterior and a tender interior. 

Additionally, the tofu absorbs the flavors of the stir-fry sauce and compliments the other ingredients like veggies and rice. 

06 – Noodles with Baked Tofu

Make yourself a delectable noodle dish like my Spicy Tahini Noodles or Glass Noodle Salad. Whether hot or cold, topping your noodles with some tofu makes for a hearty and filling component to the dish. 

 

Top down of glass noodle salad with baked tofu over top.

 

07 – Silken Tofu in Soup

Whether it’s an ingredient in a fragrant miso soup or blended into a soup to make it velvety and smooth, silken tofu can be a versatile ingredient in various soup recipes. It adds creaminess and nutrition. 

08 – Tofu Appetizer with Dipping Sauce

Enjoy my Easy Baked Tofu or a deep-fried tofu as an appetizer. Baked tofu is a versatile, plant-based protein. It can be wrapped into a lettuce wrap, served on skewers, or served alone with a simple dipping sauce. 

 

Creamy light green cilantro cashew dressing is sitting in a large bowl with crispy tofu.

 

09 – Flavorful Curries

Another excellent way to use any type of tofu is in a curry. Try simmering tofu in a fragrant Thai green curry sauce made with coconut milk, green curry paste, and vegetables. Then, serve it over steamed rice.

10 – Grain Bowl with Tofu

I love a nutritious grain bowl full of veggies for lunch. Bump up the protein by adding some baked, grilled, fried, or sautéed tofu to your lunch creation. 

Easy Baked Tofu is marvelous overtop my Greens and Ancient Grains Bowl or Southwest Quinoa Bowl recipes!

 

close up of baked tofu, rice and quinoa, cucumbers, chopped herbs, green pepper, watermelon rasdish sticks, and salad greens in a bowl as a salad. Topped with Creamy cashew dressing.

 

11 – Grilled Tofu

Think thick slices grilled (extra firm tofu) or tofu skewers basted in a marinade for your grilled tofu culinary adventure. The smoky charred flavor is pleasing and creates a crispy exterior while maintaining a tender interior. 

12 – Silky Desserts

Silken tofu’s neutral flavor and silky texture make it ideal for making smooth and nutritious desserts. It makes a terrific base for creamy desserts like puddings, mousses, and cheesecakes. 

It is a healthier alternative to heavy cream while adding its plant-based protein. Tofu in dessert is like a tofu chocolate mousse. Blend silken tofu with melted chocolate, a sweetener like maple syrup, and a dash of vanilla to make a rich and creamy vegan chocolate mousse.

13 – Pot Pies or Other Casseroles

Tofu can be used as a vegetarian or vegan protein source in pot pies, casseroles, and other baked dishes. It absorbs the flavors well and is a great meat alternative. 

14 – Tofu Scramble 

Tofu Scrambles can be used in a variety of ways and are commonly used as an egg replacement. Use it in fried rice (like in this Vegan Veggie Fried Rice recipe), spooned over toast with breakfast or as an ingredient in breakfast tacos. 

My recipe for Tofu Scramble is a terrific option for breakfast and brunch!

 

Tofu Scramble with a grey serving spoon dipped into the white bowl with golden yellow tofu crumbles.

15 – Smoked Tofu in Sandwiches or Wraps

Smoked tofu has a unique and savory flavor. Moreover, the smoked flavor adds depth and richness to sandwiches, wraps, salads, appetizers, grain bowls, and stir-fries. 

16 – Dried Tofu

Lastly, Dried tofu added to ramen or other camping meals (just add water!) makes for an easy and delicious plant-based camping or backpacking experience. You can also make ramen at home and throw some dried tofu in with the water for an easy weekday meal. Check out my Easy Vegan Kimchi Ramen recipe!

 

Jalapeno picked egg ontop of a veggie packed ramen.

Final Thoughts and More Recipes!

While I provided many recipe ideas in this article, tofu has many more culinary applications I encourage you to explore. Its mild flavor and ability to absorb different flavors and seasonings make it an excellent choice for both sweet and savory applications. 

Like these ideas? Check out these other recipes, they also pair well with a tofu addition!

Baked Tofu with a Garlic Sweet Soy Glaze

A bowl with dark and thick Garlic Sweet Soy glaze. A spoon hovering above the bowl with the glaze dripping down. Noted in the background a plate of vegetables with the glaze drizzled over top.

Sheet Pan Veggies

Kale Apple Walnut Salad

Image of Kale Apple Walnut Salad

How To Make Crispy Rice with Leftover Rice

How To Make Crispy Rice with Leftover Rice

How To Make Crispy Rice with Leftover Rice

In this article, I will talk all about my version on How To Make Crispy Rice with Leftover Rice!

This Crispy Rice Bowl recipe is a fun and different way to serve up that side of rice with dinner. I also found this is a game changer and a great way to use up leftover rice. For example, serving baked chicken, rice, and broccoli for dinner on Tuesday? Save some of your leftover rice and on Wednesday, make Spicy Tuna with Crispy Rice.

Another neat thing about this recipe, it can be made with quinoa, farro, white, brown, or wild rice. I’ll even combine quinoa and rice for my grain at dinner because they have the same cooking time and water-to-grain ratios!

This recipe and post are heavily influenced by one of my favorite cookbooks, Bottom of the Pot: Persian Recipes & Stories by Naz Deravain. One of my photos was even inspired by the cookbook cover!

 

Crispy_Rice_topdown_fluffy

Ingredients for Crispy Rice

You only need 2 ingredients to make this delicious dish.

Leftover Rice: I use leftover jasmine rice in this recipe. If you do not have long-grain rice you might choose to substitute it for basmati, or any other short grain rice such as leftover sushi rice. Really whatever rice you have thats leftover. 

Oil: I use avocado oil for this recipe. With its high smoke point and neutral flavor, avocado oil is my “go-to” for everything I sautee and pan-fried.

Other Flavors: I keep things simple by adding a little rice wine vinegar. You could also add some chili oil, sesame oil, or other seasonings like pepper, paprika, onions, hot sauce fresh herbs, a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

How to Make Easy Crispy Rice

Prepare the Rice:

  • If the leftover rice is clumped together, break it apart with your fingers or a fork. Cold rice directly from the refrigerator works best as it’s drier and less sticky.

Heat the Oil:

  • Heat the oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Make sure there’s enough oil to lightly coat the bottom of the pan.

Crisp the Rice:

  • Add the rice to the skillet in a single even layer, pressing down lightly with a spatula to ensure the rice is compact. This helps in forming a nice crispy bottom.
  • Let the rice cook undisturbed for about 5 to 10 minutes, or until the bottom turns golden brown and crispy. The key is not to stir it too soon; patience is crucial for achieving that desired crunch.

Serve:

  • Once the rice is crisped to your liking, remove it from heat and serve immediately.

 

Crispy_Rice_topdown

 

How to Serve Crispy Crunchy Rice

When I am feeling extra this is my go-to method of serving up leftover rice. Make this a complete meal by serving this crispy rice recipe in easy Spicy Tuna Bowls.

Check out my suggestions for serving this crispy rice recipe below:

Condiments and Sauces

  • Soy Sauce
  • Flavored Salt
  • Toasted Sesame oil
  • Kewpie Mayo or a Japanese Mayonnaise
  • Spicy Mayo sauce
  • Lime Juice
  • A little Rice Vinegar
  • Toasted Sesame Seeds

Think Veggies

  • Sliced Green Onions
  • Thinly Sliced Avocado
  • Thinly Sliced Pickled Veggies
  • Roasted Veggies like carrots, broccoli, sweet potatoes, eggplant, and mushrooms
  • Raw Sliced Cucumber
  • Kimchi

Protein

california roll sushi bowl in a white bowl with a linen napkin and back chopsticks. veggies include shredded carrots, cucumber ribbons, and sliced avocado with white rice and a sweet soy sauce drizzle

Crispy Rice Around the World

From continent to continent, crispy rice showcases the rich diversity of global cooking traditions. It’s a perfect example of how versatile and satisfying grains can be in any diet, flexitarian or otherwise:

  • Iran: Tahdig, a golden, crispy rice layer often flavored with saffron or paired with potatoes for extra texture.
  • China & Korea: Guoba and Nurungji, crispy rice layers enjoyed in soups, as snacks, or even brewed into tea.
  • Spain: Socarrat, the toasted crust at the bottom of a paella, packed with smoky, rich flavors.
  • Peru & Senegal: Concolón and Xooñ, prized crispy rice treasures in dishes like arroz con pollo and jollof rice.
  • Italy: Riso al Salto, pan-fried risotto cakes with a golden, crunchy exterior.
  • India: Kurchan, the flavorful, crispy bottom layer of a biryani pot.

As a flexitarian dietitian, I love how crispy rice showcases the creativity and resourcefulness of plant-forward cooking around the globe. Writing about crispy rice and sharing my quick and easy recipe is a way to celebrate its history, flavors, and cultural roots while appreciating how universal the love of crispy textures really is.

Like This Recipe? You Will Love These Too!

Spicy Tuna with Crispy Rice

Secret Ingredient Vegan Vegetable Chili

Panera Mexican Street Corn Chowder: An Easy Copycat Recipe – My Most Popular Recipe

Crispy_Rice_topdown_fluffy

Easy Crispy Rice

Sarah Harper MS, RD, LDN
This recipe takes simple cooked rice and adds crispy flair. Easy Crispy Rice is quick to whip up and a fun new way to eat a bowl of rice.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Breakfast, dinner, lunch, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cup cooked white rice option to include quinoa as well - see recipe notes
  • 3 tbsp avocado oil

Instructions
 

Prepare the Rice

  • If the leftover rice is clumped together, break it apart with your fingers or a fork. Cold rice directly from the refrigerator works best as it's drier and less sticky.

Heat the Oil

  • Heat the oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Make sure there's enough oil to lightly coat the bottom of the pan.

Crisp the Rice

  • Add the rice to the skillet in a single even layer, pressing down lightly with a spatula to ensure the rice is compact. This helps in forming a nice crispy bottom.
  • Let the rice cook undisturbed for about 5 to 10 minutes, or until the bottom turns golden brown and crispy. The key is not to stir it too soon; patience is crucial for achieving that desired crunch.

Notes

For these images, I chose to use 75% sushi rice and 25% quinoa. You may also use basmati or jasmine rice. Because quinoa and rice have the same water-to-grain ratio and cook time, I choose to cook rice and quinoa together in the same pot often! 
I use a dish towel to wrap the lid while the rice cooks. This step is to ensure the condensation does not drip back into the rice. If you choose to include this step, do not leave the kitchen, and be very careful not to burn the dish towel (especially if you have a gas stove burner). Wrapping the towel around the lid is not essential. 

Nutrition

Calories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 4gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gSodium: 2mgPotassium: 55mgFiber: 1gSugar: 0.1gCalcium: 16mgIron: 0.3mg
Keyword crisp, rice
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
How To Make A Flexitarian Breakfast

How To Make A Flexitarian Breakfast

How To Make A Flexitarian Breakfast

 

A balanced breakfast has a mix of nutrients to provide energy and keep you feeling full throughout the morning. Opt for a combination of carbohydrates, fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals to ensure a well-rounded and nutritious diet. 

Find these nutrients in many foods, including plant-based foods. If you are looking for a nutritious Flexitarian morning meal continue reading this Flexitarian Breakfast guide.

As a bonus, I also provide a variety of Flexitarian breakfast recipes!

Please note that this article contains affiliate links. These links incur no additional cost to you but may provide a small commission to support the upkeep of our site. Thank you for your support and understanding.

McDonalds Pancakes Recipe sliced down the middle with a peanut butter syrup

Pancakes fortified with protein powder and drizzled with a peanut butter maple glaze

Importance of a Balanced Breakfast

 

Breakfast is often called “the most important meal of the day” by many health professionals. 

Numerous studies have found eating a balanced breakfast regularly is associated with a range of health benefits. Some of these include reduced risk of obesity, and type II diabetes, as well as better academic performance in children and adolescents.

Flexitarian breakfasts are similar to my recommendations for a non-flexitarian healthy breakfast with one difference – moderate/limit the intake of animal-derived products. 

The Key To A Flexitarian Breakfast: Limit Animal Products 

 

To adopt a Flexitarian lifestyle, you moderate/limit your intake of meat and potentially other animal-derived products.

Limiting animal products at breakfast is a great way to kick off your day of Flexitarian Eating. 

Some Flexitarian Styles of eating, like Marc Bittman’s “Vegan Before 6”, eating plant-based during the first two-third’s of the day, and for dinner, they have the option of eating a meat-based meal. 

This daily routine can make eating more plant-based more feasible for many people. 

 

Health Benefits of The Flexitarian Breakfast

 

Additionally, embracing a plant-based breakfast offers numerous health benefits worth considering.

Opting for plant-based alternatives at breakfast can help reduce the intake of saturated fats, promoting heart health. Additionally, plant-based breakfasts rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provide essential nutrients and diverse flavors, which may contribute to improved digestive health. 

So, you might ask yourself, how do I make a Flexitarian Breakfast? 

I’ll tell you!

 

A hand holding a ceramic spoon with thick and creamy Vanilla Cinnamon Peanut butter on the spoon.

Nut Butters for a Healthy Balanced Flexitarian Breakfast

5 Tips For Creating A Balanced Flexitarian Breakfast

 

Here are my easy-to-follow five tips for creating a balanced Flexitarian breakfast.

Pick more Protein

Incorporating about 25-30g of protein into your breakfast can significantly extend your feeling of fullness throughout the morning. Protein also provides essential amino acids vital for muscle repair and growth.

 

Some Flexitarian Breakfast Protein Sources include:

Eggs, yogurt, cottage cheese, nuts, seeds, nuts and seed butter, beans, tofu, protein powders, and protein-fortified breakfast products such as bagels, pancakes, and waffles.

Here is a list of excellent protein-packed flexitarian Breakfast Smoothie Recipes. I add protein powder to a smoothie for a quick, easy, and protein-packed breakfast. These Flexitarian breakfast recipes keep me full for hours!

Peanut Butter Smoothie

Peanut Paradise Tropical Smoothie Cafe Copycat, one smoothie in focus, one smoothie in the background and sitting overtop 2 blue coasters, peanut butter and date caramel on spoons in the foreground with fresh sliced bananas.

 

Focus on Fiber

Fiber aids in digestion and helps to regulate blood glucose levels. Additionally, fiber promotes satiety, which keeps you feeling full.

Some Flexitarian Breakfast Fiber Sources include: 

Nuts, seeds, nuts and seeds butter, whole grain breads and bagels, oats, quinoa, beans, whole fruits, and veggies.

Check out my article about How To Make The Best Creamy Oatmeal. A single cup of quick-cooking oats has 300 calories, 10g of protein, and 4g of fiber. 

Creamy Oatmeal in a skillet with 3 butter pats

 

Choose Healthy Fats

Healthy fats are essential for brain health, hormone production, and micronutrient absorption.

Some Flexitarian Breakfast Healthy Fats Sources include: 

Avocado, salmon, olive oil, peanut butter, nut butter, nuts, and seeds.

Check out my Avocado Toast Recipe! This recipe has fiber, healthy fats, and protein

Soft Boiled Eggs on Toast with Sliced Turnips on a blue plate

 

Limit Added Sugar

Added sugar at breakfast can lead to energy crashes later in the day.

To help prevent blood sugar spikes, avoid foods such as muffins, scones, donuts, sugary cereals, and sugary yogurts.

However, note that I said “limit added sugar” not omit! 

In moderation, breakfast foods that contain added sugar can fit into a healthy Flexitarian diet and lifestyle. 

For example, I love this Croffles recipe for entertaining guests for a special occasion like a Mother’s Day Bruch or Christmas Day Breakfast. 

A bite shot of a croffle with a dusting of powdered sugar. You can see the outline of the croffle where the bite was taken due to the powdered sugar dusting.

 

Don’t forget those Vitamins and Minerals

A balanced breakfast needs vitamins and minerals. To incorporate a variety of these nutrients, incorporate lots of colorful fruits and veggies into your diet.

You can also opt for fortified foods such as cereals, dairy products, plant-based milks, and grains.

My Smoothie Bowl recipe is another Flexitarian recipe that includes a variety of vitamins and minerals.

Strawberry Smoothie Bowl with toppings such as granola , sliced strawberries, coconut flakes, and cocoa nibs. Placed on a plain eggshell white back drop.

 

 

 

 

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Healthy Peanut Paradise Tropical Smoothie Café Copycat

Peanut Paradise Tropical Smoothie Cafe Copycat, one smoothie in focus, one smoothie in the background and sitting overtop 2 blue coasters, peanut butter and date caramel on spoons in the foreground with fresh sliced bananas.

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Is Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend Good? Dietitian Review

Is Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend Good? Dietitian Review

Is Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend Good? A Dietitian’s Review

Here is a Trader Joe’s Harvest Grains Blend Review from a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with a Master’s in Nutrition. My review might surprise you!

In this review, I discuss versatility, taste, nutrition, and more!

Please note that this article contains affiliate links. These links incur no additional cost to you but may provide a small commission to support the upkeep of our site. Thank you for your support and understanding.

What is Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend?

Before I jump into the Trader Joe’s Harvest Grains Blend Review, let’s review what the product is!

The Harvest Blend at Trader Joe’s, also called Trader Joe’s Harvest Grains Blend contains the different grains of Israeli couscous, orzo, baby garbanzo beans, and red quinoa.

This product comes in a 16oz bag and can be found in the pasta and grain aisle in Trader Joe’s.  

Trader Joe's Harvest Blend and a bowl of a Harvest Blend Greek Salad bowl

Trader Joe’s Harvest Grain Product Scorecard

I scored Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend across five categories and allotted points from 0 to 10. The scores below reflect the rating for each category. 

Overall Score: 8.25/10

  • Meal Variety: 10/10
  • Nutrition: 7/10
  • Ease of preparation: 8/10
  • Taste: 8/10

 

+PRO

You can do so much with this grain mix. It is a fantastic ingredient to add to meals and recipes. 

Dinner ready in under 30 minutes

12g of protein (37% calories coming from protein, for a grain mix this is great!) 

320 calories or ½ cup dry mix

 

xCON

Only 4g fiber – this is a con light. 4g is pretty good but it could be better

Needs additional protein sources, veggies, and flavorings for this to be a balanced meal.

Available on Amazon However, you have to buy a pack of three and it is more expensive than purchasing in store. 

 

Three bowls, small medium, and large. The small black bwol has dressing in it and the medium a serving of greek salad grain bowl, the large has the entire recipe

 

Applications of Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend

Trader Joe’s Harvest Grains Blend is excellent in a variety of dishes. 

 

Some of my favorites include:

  • As a side dish
  • Added to a Harvest Grains Salad or grain bowls – check out one of my latest recipes, perfect for a last-minute meal, the Greek Salad Inspired Harvest Grains Bowl. 
  • Sprinkled over a tossed garden salad
  • Tossed into soups
  • Stuffed into veggies

 

 It is a great product for when you don’t know what to have for dinner and you don’t have much time. 

 

A hand is placing cut up colorful veggies in a glass bowl.

A Dietitian’s Nutrition Analysis

I wish this product had more quinoa or legumes. So, to bump up the fiber and protein, I add more quinoa and some lentils into my mix! 

 

Incorporate the Harvest Grains Mix with your favorite combination of veggies and some protein for a balanced meal, such as goat cheese, pine nuts, chicken, fish, or tofu.

 

Ease Of Cooking

A Harvest Blend dinner can be ready in under 30 minutes. 

 

The directions say to bring water or chicken stock (you could also use vegetable stock, or vegetable broth) or to a boil then stir in the Harvest blend with one tablespoon of butter (avocado, coconut, or olive oil work well too). 

 

Then bring the mixture back to a boil and reduce the heat to simmer, covered for 10 minutes. Please note, that cooking times may vary slightly from stove to stove. 

 

You can eat this immediately or make a batch in advance for some meal prep! This recipe tastes just as good served the next day. 

 

Taste of Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend Recipes

This product makes so many different delicious recipes. I love the varieties of textures, sizes, and shapes of the grains included. However, alone Harvest Grains Blend does not have tons of flavor. 

 

This product requires you to add your seasoning because they are not included in the package. However, this makes this product super versatile. 

 

You can add so many seasoning combinations from garlic and herb (minced garlic with fresh parsley, dried oregano, and thyme) to lemon pepper (lemon juice, lemon zest, and black pepper) to olive rosemary (olive slices, red pepper flakes, and as the grain mix cooks include a spring of fresh rosemary to infuse the mixture. 

 

Trader Joe's Harvest Blend and a bowl of a Harvest Blend Greek Salad bowl

Who is this product suitable for?

 

I recommend this product as an easy weeknight meal staple. It brings fiber and protein to the mix and pairs well with many varieties of foods. 

 

It is excellent for vegans, vegetarians, and flexitarians alike! 

Please note, that this product is not gluten-free. 

 

The Bottom Line

 

The next time you are strolling the isles at Trader Joe’s consider picking up a bag of their Harvest Blend. 

 

A bowl full with a grain salad with colorful veggies including peppers and greens topped with a creamy dressing

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Are Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles Good?: Dietitian Review

Are Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles Good?: Dietitian Review

Are Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles Good? A Dietitian’s Review

My honest Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles review. My review might surprise you!

In this review, I discuss versatility, taste, nutrition, and more!

Please note that this article contains affiliate links. These links incur no additional cost to you but may provide a small commission to support the upkeep of our site. Thank you for your support and understanding.

 

What are Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles?

Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles are fully cooked, ready-to-eat, and shelf-stable wheat noodles. One package contains three ready-to-use noodle packages located in the Trader Joe’s grocery aisle near ramen and other noodles. 

They are made from scratch by a supplier in Thailand. These noodles are soft, chewy, and delicious. 

 

Trader Joe's thai wheat noodles below a big pot of peanut sauce prepared noodles

The Product Scorecard

I scored Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles across four categories and allotted points from 0 to 10. The scores below reflect the rating for each category. 

Meal Variety: 10/10

Nutrition: 8/10

Ease of preparation: 9/10

Taste: 8/10

Overall Score: 8.75/10

+PRO

  • You can do so much with these noodles. It is a fantastic ingredient to add to a plethora of meals and recipes. 
  • These noodles are already cooked and ready to go! You can have a nutritious dinner ready in 15 to 30 minutes!
  • 10g Protein per package
  • 5g fiber per serving

xCON

  • Needs additional protein sources, veggies, and flavorings for this to be a balanced meal.
  • Available on Amazon However, it is more expensive than purchasing in-store. 

 

Trader Joe's Thai Wheat Noodles in a bowl with black chopsticks resting on the side.

Thai Wheat Noodles Applications

 

Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles are excellent in a variety of dishes. 

 

Some of my favorites include:

  • Noodle Stir Fry: Use a delicious peanut sauce or other Thai-inspired recipes such as pad thai
  • Noodle Power Bowls: Drizzle with sesame oil and top with sesame seeds
  • Thai Curries: Rather than rice noodles incorporate the wheat noodles
  • Soups: I like to draw inspiration from chicken noodle soup. Rather than egg noodles, I use Thai Wheat Noodles
  • Lettuce Wraps and Spring Rolls: Use these fresh noodles and other veggies such as red pepper or green onions

These noodles are a terrific product for when you don’t know what to have for dinner, and you are short on time.

 

Trader Joes Thai Wheat Noodle PEanut Stir Fry in a pan with the package of noodles, a bowl with chopsticks, herbs, and peanut sauce as props surrounding the dish.

Thai Wheat Noodle Nutrition

 

I wish this product had more fiber and protein. So, to bump up the fiber and protein, I add veggies and high-protein food like a fried egg, baked tofu, or chicken. 

 

Easy To Prepare Meals

 

An easy, complete, and balanced Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodle dinner can be ready in 15 to 30 minutes. Make a stir-fry batch in advance for some meal prep! This recipe tastes just as good served the next day. 

 

How to Cook Thai Wheat Noodles

 

These noodles are pre-cooked! I like to add them to a bowl of hot water, to warm and break up the noodles. 

 

I remove the noodles from their packaging and place them in a medium-sized bowl. Then, I bring some water to a bowl, then pour it over the noodles until they are submerged. I wait about 5 minutes until they easily break apart.   

 

Noodles twirled around black chopsticks hovering over a bowl of Peanut Noodle Stir fry with veggies

Taste of Thai Wheat Noodles

This product makes so many different delicious recipes. I love the varieties of textures, sizes, and shapes of the grains included. 

 

However, alone the Thai Wheat Noodles do not have a lot of flavor. It does require a bit of seasoning that is not included in the package to bring more flavor to the mix however, this makes this product super versatile.

 

A Versatile Product

You can add so many seasoning combinations from Peanut noodles with a spicy sauce to curries topped with chili crisp to chicken noodle soups garnished with fresh green onion. 

 

Who is this product suitable for?

 

I recommend this product as an easy weeknight meal staple. It brings fiber and protein to the mix and pairs well with many varieties of foods. It is excellent for vegans, vegetarians, and flexitarians alike! 

 

Note that this product is not gluten-free. 

 

Trader Joes Thai Wheat Noodles with Peanut Sauce in a stoneware bowl with black chopsticks. To the left are green onions and cilantro props

The Bottom Line

 

The next time you are strolling the isles at Trader Joe’s consider picking up a box of their Thai Wheat Noodles and experimenting with different recipes! 

Enjoy This Article? Check Out These Other Article Discussing Trader Joe’s Products!

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