04/02/2022
Healthy New Year of the Tiger!
When I'm planning lunch or dinner, I usually think in terms of layers, specifically layers of a pyramid:
🥔 At the bottom of the pyramid (layer 1) is the starchy, filling layer (potatoes, rice, winter squash, beans, corn, etc.). Today it's russet potatoes, pinto beans, and corn.
🥦 Layer number 2 is the non-starchy veggie layer, which can be raw or cooked or a combo of the two. All one type of veggie or a mix is great too. Here I cooked kale, collard greens, and brussels sprouts.
🥑 The last layer of the pyramid is at the top (layer 3, the tip), and is made up of the least amount of food; I think of it as the "condiment" layer. This is where you find higher-fat plant foods like avocado and nuts/seeds, but also mustard, salsa, sauces, salad dressings, etc. The "ad-on"s for extra flavor and/or texture. (I added some salt-free Mexican seasoning blend over the top.)
🤩 You don't have to always do 3 layers; you could just do layer 1 or 1 and 2. But since most of us like a little variety, I like 3. (If you're trying to lose weight, you could forego higher-fat foods in layer 3).
⚖️ Nutritional Balance is less important in each meal, and more so across all meals; so varying your foods from meal to meal somewhat is a good way to get the spectrum of nutrients the body needs.
Keep it simple, remember the pyramid! 🔺️✅😊
