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Full of fiber, nutrients, and healthy fats, these flavorful recipes will treat your heart right. Heart health is a key topic promoted at the beginning of every year, but the truth is that it's important year-round. The heart is a main organ, and without its health, systems fail almost immediately. While you certainly can't outrun your genetics, there is something to be said about being intentional with what you eat. Scroll through our list of heart-healthy recipes to see which ones catch your taste buds' attention.
1. Blueberry Ginger Green Smoothie
Three fruits and two vegetables make their way into this delicious portable purple smoothie. It also includes a dose of heart-healthy seeds and a popular anti-inflammatory spice. Not just for breakfast, but we think it's pretty perfect for an afternoon snack, too.
2. Blood Orange Turmeric Salmon
Salmon makes nearly every list of heart-healthy foods since it's a fish rich in Omega-3s. Our recipe pairs it with the tangy flavors of citrus, along with anti-inflammatory spices and fresh herbs. It's an unexpected flavor combination yet one of our favorites.
3. Spinach and Artichoke Cottage Cheese Frittata
Artichokes are the heart-healthy star in this make-ahead breakfast recipe providing no fat and a high amount of fiber. Combined with the antioxidants in spinach, your morning will be off to the best start with the help of this frittata.
4. Tomato Kale Soup
Antioxidant-rich leafy greens, like kale, work seamlessly in soup recipes because they become softer without getting slimy. The tomatoes provide a creamy base to the soup while providing a healthy dose of heart-healthy lycopene – it makes tomatoes red and gives other reddish and orangey fruits and vegetables their color.
5. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos
Tacos without the meat? You bet! This quick, meatless recipe is a good one that is anything but boring. We recommend enjoying it for lunch, but dinner works too. Plus, it's kid-approved.
6. Beet and Citrus Salad
Beets may be messy, but their flavor and nutritional profile are well worth the cleanup. This leafless salad is one of the most colorful recipes we've seen. Plus, the addition of pistachios, instead of croutons, adds the perfect amount of crunch.
7. Spinach Turkey Burgers
Ground turkey is a lean protein option for those who love their meat. This patty packs extra flavor and a boost of antioxidants from ingredients like chopped spinach. We recommend topping it with sliced avocado – hello, monounsaturated fats!
8. Chili Lime Bean Burger
This one is a must if you're looking for a meatless burger recipe. Pinto and garbanzo beans make the bulk of the patty, providing a hearty dose of fiber, while the flavors of cilantro, lime, chili pepper, and cumin round it out, making it zesty and delicious.
9. Shakshuka
There's nothing quite like shakshuka, and if you haven't given it a try, now's the time. With its hearty tomato base and perfectly poached eggs, it's a deliciously satisfying dish to make for breakfast, brunch, or even a savory dinner.
10. Spiced Apple Baked Oatmeal
Let's face it, oatmeal packets are a boring way to enjoy this fibrous, healthy whole grain. If you need something low on effort, this baked oatmeal will ensure your breakfast is ready-to-go all week. Plus, we love it as a snack, too.
11. Baked Falafel
Did you know most falafel is fried? Our chef whipped up a better creation for your heart since it's baked instead. Throw it in a pita, grain bowl, or bed of salad, and enjoy this Mediterranean staple.
12. Ratatouille
If presentation is your thing, then this recipe is for you. It's a beautiful sight of red, green, and yellow vegetables cut and arranged in a circular design. Not only will your heart be happy, but your eyes will be, too.
The Bottom Line
When searching for heart-healthy recipes, aim for foods high in fiber and low in saturated fat and sodium. Fruits and vegetables are always a plus. Most importantly, mix up what you eat, as variety is the real MVP for your health.