Search

Celebrate A World of Flavors

Quincy Vidrine

Article written by Brittney Newsome, Associate Nutrition Agent.

Information adapted from: The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

This year's theme for National Nutrition Month (March) was "Celebrate a World of Flavors." This theme showcases how flavors from cultures around the world is a tasty way to nourish ourselves and appreciate our diversity. We are all unique with different bodies, goals, backgrounds, and tastes!

Being able to enjoy different flavors from around the world provides a chance to learn more about your own food culture and preferences as well as those that may be new to you. Become more creative by trying new foods, recipes, and ingredients from a variety of cultures to introduce new flavors into your healthy eating routine. Many cuisines offer dishes which include foods from each food group, so it’s possible to plan meals that are nutritious, well-balanced, and bursting with flavor.

Trying new flavors and foods from around the world can also help you increase the variety in the foods you eat. Choosing a variety of nutritious foods from all the food groups (fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, and protein foods) and in the recommended amounts will help you get the nutrients that are needed for good health.

Be sure to incorporate your favorite cultural foods and traditions, as you “Celebrate a World of Flavors” during National Nutrition Month® and throughout the year. Here are a few ways to embrace global cultures and cuisines when planning your meals and snacks:

Pan of Peppers

Photo by Camryn Price.

  • A smoothie with low-fat yogurt or buttermilk and tropical fruits, like papaya or mango.
  • Za’atar mixed with a little olive oil and spread on whole wheat pita bread, then topped with tomato slices, olives, cucumber, and fresh mint.
  • Vegetable upma, an Asian Indian dish, that can be made with semolina or rice, spiced with ginger and other seasonings.
  • A Spanish omelet with potatoes and other veggies, topped with a sprinkle of cheese.
  • Gazpacho, a type of soup served cold, which can be made with tomatoes, peppers, and onions or a mixture of those vegetables with watermelon as the base.
  • A spicy lentil and vegetable stew, known as Sambar, originates from India.
  • Da pan ji is an example of a Chinese stew made with chicken, potatoes, ginger, and garlic.
  • Vegetables like cabbage, eggplant or zucchini can be stuffed with seasoned mixtures that may include meats, grains, and sauces. One example is mahshi, a Middle Eastern dish, made of zucchini stuffed with cooked rice, lamb and spices served in a tomato based sauce.

Healthful eating options span the globe. Plus, many recipes can be modified based on personal food preferences or to accommodate different budgets.

National Nutrition Month® is an annual campaign created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. During the month of March, everyone is invited to learn about making informed food choices and developing healthful eating and physical activity habits. For more information visit: www.eatright.org.

8/15/2022 3:29:51 PM
Rate This Article:

Have a question or comment about the information on this page?

Innovate . Educate . Improve Lives

The LSU AgCenter and the LSU College of Agriculture

Top