Webster’s defines a rut as a usual or fixed practice. It is getting accustomed to doing the same things the same way over and over again. We’re in a rut when we take the same route to work, watch the same television shows, and eat the same foods day in and day out.
Ruts aren’t necessarily bad for us–but when it comes to eating, they can lead to boredom that will throw the most diligent healthy eater off course. If you’re in a rut, you’re due for a change!
This does not mean creating a five-course meal. It can simply be changing how you prepare the everyday foods you already like. A change in serving temperature or cooking method can turn the usual ho-hum meal into something far more interesting. Here are some creative ideas for fruit just to get you started.
APPLES: Instead of a raw apple, add 1 cut up apple (Granny Smith are good) to a saucepan with 1/4 cup water, 2 Tbsp lemon juice, 1/4 cup apple juice concentrate, 2 whole cloves, and 2 cinnamon sticks. Bring to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove the spices and serve a warm, comforting apple dessert.
BANANAS: Split a small banana in half lengthwise. Drizzle with 1 Tbsp orange juice and 1 tsp brown sugar. Place in baking pan, cover, and bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes until the banana is soft. It will have a creamy texture like custard.
ORANGES: Peel off the skin of 1 medium orange. Slice and sprinkle with 1 tsp cinnamon and top with 1 Tbsp pomegranate seeds. An elegant way to serve citrus!
