I love food. I mean really love food. I love cooking it, love eating it and love drinking it (hello wine!). I love it so much, that I’ve been having to watch my intake, which can be a hard thing to do when I’m the “food editor.” So, as samples have been rolling my way, I’ve been turning a bit more critical eye to them–how many “points” are they (I’m doing Weight Watchers) and if they are high in points, are they worth it? So with that in mind, I’ve been tasting and chewing, and found all of the following to be excellent. And since it’s Earth Day this Sunday (April 22), here’s another twist on the food below–each is produced sustainably, which is good for the planet.
My kiddos are Greek yogurt fanatics, so when I had the opportunity to try the new YoKids Greek, I jumped on it. Thick and rich, but with much more flavor than the “adult versions”, they loved it. I also liked that it was pre-stirred, so there was no need to mix up the syrup that normally comes with the grown-up varieties. And, of course, like all Stonyfield products, it’s organic and produced in the most sustainable way possible. To learn more, including where to buy, click here.
OH MY GOODNESS were these tasty! Loved them. Crave makes sweet pies (apple, blueberry), meat pies (like the above) and vegetarian (spinach/feta was to die for) and each one was phenomenal. Yes, they average 7 points per pie, but the flaky, buttery crust is so worth it. These would be great to heat and send off in your child’s lunchbox as well. All of the Crave products are gluten free. To learn more, including where to buy click here.
Looking for a bit of a pick me up that doesn’t come in a aluminum can? Svelte energy and protein drinks are it. Yummy and creamy, yet dairy free, each drink contains 16g of protein from fresh organic soymilk as well as complex carbs for sustained energy. They’re also big–one serving is a carton–over 15 ounces of bliss. I combined half of the chocolate with a whole banana and some ice for a fantastic afternoon snack. CalNaturale is a third generation family business, located in Northern California, which has won awards for it’s innovative products without compromising the environment. To learn more, including where to buy, click here.
Now I’m the first to admit that I’m not a lover of brown rice, but I’ve been trying to make an effort since it’s healthier than white rice. Texmati sent three varieties for me to try–white, light brown and brown. And though all three were tasty, I honestly like the brown version best! The other thing I really liked was that it cooked much faster than traditional brown rice. And when I serve it, there’s not a peep of complaint from my husband or the kiddos. “Produced by American family farmers, is 100% organically grown (non-GMO seeds are used), naturally high in nutrition, gluten free, low in fat, cholesterol and sodium and is certified Kosher by Star K.” To learn more, including where to buy, click here.
Kitchen Table Bakers Parmesan Crisps
I love myself some cheese and wine. It’s my kryptonite. So as a result of the aforementioned Weight Watchers, I haven’t been eating much of it (hear me crying?). So when I pulled these out of the mail, my heart skipped a beat. “The crisp made entirely of cheese”? Oh you had me at hello. I served them for my friend Heidi along with a bowl of Split Pea Soup and they were fantastic. I was eating them by themselves and Heidi said to, “break them up into the soup, it’s SO good,” and holy cow they made fantastic croutons! To top it off, the crisps are, “naturally free of wheat, gluten, trans fats, and sugars, and are naturally high in protein, but low in calories and carbs.” To learn more, including where to buy, click here. To order from Amazon, $7.49 per package, click here.
Although I’m blessed with two great eaters, I’m always looking to give my kiddos an extra “punch” of nutrition, which is why I love Linwoods. Essentially, each “flavor” (which is gluten and sugar free) is a blend of ground berries, flaxseeds, nuts, and even cocoa (!) which offers essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals to ensure you body is getting all the nutrients it should! All it takes is a spoonful–I added it to oatmeal, smoothies and cereal, but the possibilities are endless. Fantastic if you’re looking for a sneaky way to get some nutrients into your little one’s body, or if anyone needs a kick start to their meal. To learn more, including where to buy, click here.
Makers of the aforementioned Svelte drinks also make the party happen. Presenting CalNaturale Wine–offered in both a Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, each is 100% organic and comes in this ultra-cool Tetra Pak packaging, ensuring freshness days after opening. And it’s delish! An essential for all your summer BBQ’s. For more info, including where to buy, click here.
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What a good job, Alex, describing the foods you features! All sound delish, but especially the Kitchen Table Baker Parmesan Chips. I clicked on the stores that carry them and am so happy to see that I can rush out for instant gratification. And I’m proud of you, after all these years, finally getting turned on to brown rice. I’ve been telling you all your life that it’s nuttier and crunchier. (Forget about healthier; we didn’t think about that when you were little!)
I want to start raiding your mail box! 😉 Lots of interesting products on this list. The cheese crisps sound really tasty (I’m a total sucker for cheese). Unfortunately over here in Germany you have to hunt a lot harder for products like these — guess that’s why I resort to making so much food on my own!