Week in Review

This week was all about food, good thing because food it what my job is all about!  This time of year brings seasonal citrus. It is a great time to explore the different types of citrus you don't normally get a chance to indulge in. Tangelos are at the top of my list!  If you haven't had one, you are missing out on this tangerine and grapefruit hybrid. Also, it's an easy way to keep your immune system flourishing during the dead of winter with an abundance of Vitamin C.

Today is National Popcorn Day and it is also our Dietitian Pick of the Month. 

Popcorn is such a healthy snack. Don't get me wrong, I love it most from the movie theater (I can't resist the intoxicating scent when I am there) but Boom Chicka Pop is another way to indulge without the guilt.

5 reasons to eat more boom chicka pop popcorn

1. A smart snack for weight loss. Its fiber helps you feel full faster and longer.
2. Only 35 calories per cup for Boom Chicka Pop sea salt popcorn.
3. A whole grain. Eating more whole grains may reduce the risk of diseases such as stroke or heart disease.
4. Zero trans fats, a better choice for heart health.
5. Certified gluten-free.

Chicago Party Mix
Serves 28 (1/2 cup each)

All you need:

• 3cups Hy-Vee Toasted Corn cereal
• 3 cups Hy-Vee Toasted Wheat cereal
• 2 cups Hy-Vee Toasted Rice cereal
• 2 cups Hy-Vee Reduced-Fat bite-size square cheese crackers, divided
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar or molasses
• 1/3 cup light corn syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 3 cups Angie’s BOOM CHICKA POP White Cheddar Cheese Popcorn

All you do:

1. In a large microwavable bowl, mix cereals and 1 cup cheese crackers; set aside.
2. Place butter, brown sugar, corn syrup and salt in 2-cup microwavable measuring cup. Microwave on HIGH for 1 minute 30 seconds. Stir; microwave on HIGH until bubbling. Remove from microwave; stir in baking soda. Mixture will foam a little, but keep mixing until baking soda is dissolved. Pour mixture over the cereal and crackers; stir until fully coated.
3. Microwave on HIGH for 4 minutes, stirring after every minute. Spread coated mixture on waxed paper-lined baking sheet. Let cool for about 5 minutes to let caramel fully harden. Stir in remaining 1/2 cup cheese crackers and the 3 cups popcorn.

Nutrition per serving: 100 calories, 3 g fat, 1 g saturated fat, 5 mg cholesterol, 190 mg sodium, 18 g carbohydrate (1 g fiber, 7 g sugars), 1 g protein. Recipe adapted from General Mills.

The information is not intended as medical advice. Please consult a medical professional for individual advice.

Speaking of popcorn and movies, I treated myself to each this past week. I decided to see a movie by myself but had no clue I would be literally, by myself. I was the only person in the theater. Most people would not find this comfortable but I loved every liberating moment of it. The movie was excellent, the time alone was rewarding and the popcorn was delicious!