Embrace Nutritious Indulgence with Whole Health Flexi-Plan Almond Risotto
As we journey towards healthier eating habits, the Whole Health Flexi-Plan presents an innovative, flexible, and sustainable approach. It focuses on whole, minimally processed foods that offer high nutritional value. One such delightful creation is the Whole Health Flexi-Plan Almond Risotto with Roasted Baby Parsnips and Crispy Sage. A perfect blend of creamy risotto, the nutty goodness of almonds, the earthy sweetness of parsnips, and the aromatic delight of sage, this recipe is a testament to the fact that healthy food can be delicious too.
Why Choose Whole Health Flexi-Plan Almond Risotto?
Almonds have long been known for their health benefits. They're high in healthy fats, fiber, protein, magnesium, and vitamin E. They can reduce hunger and promote weight loss, aid in blood sugar control, lower cholesterol levels, and reduce inflammation.
Arborio rice, an Italian short-grain rice, is the key to the creamy texture of risotto. While it doesn't pack as much fiber as brown rice, it is gluten-free and offers some important nutrients like iron and protein.
Parsnips, though often overlooked, are a source of vitamins and minerals, dietary fiber, and antioxidants. They may improve digestion, boost the immune system, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Sage, beyond its culinary appeal, is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. It's been linked to cognitive health and improved brain function.
Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits
A serving of Whole Health Flexi-Plan Almond Risotto offers a balanced array of nutrients. It provides around 420 calories, a suitable amount for a main meal. The 62 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the Arborio rice, give you the energy you need for your daily activities.
Moreover, this almond risotto recipe contributes to your daily protein needs, providing approximately 10 grams per serving. This protein, combined with 7 grams of dietary fiber, helps to maintain a feeling of fullness, aiding those on a weight management journey.
It's a low-cholesterol meal, with a moderate amount of healthy fats from almonds and olive oil, which are known for their heart health benefits. The dish also provides a variety of essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to your overall nutritional intake.
Making the Most of Your Meal
The Whole Health Flexi-Plan Almond Risotto is more than a dish—it's a nourishing experience. It encourages mindful eating, an approach that promotes a healthier relationship with food. It's about savoring each bite, appreciating the textures and flavors, and listening to your hunger and fullness cues. This way, every meal becomes an opportunity to nurture your body and your mind.
Conclusion
The Whole Health Flexi-Plan Almond Risotto is an embodiment of the principles of the Flexi-Plan: flexibility, enjoyment, and nutritional awareness. It's a delicious way to enjoy the benefits of almonds, parsnips, and sage, and it's proof that a health-conscious diet can be full of flavors and satisfying foods.
The revised recipe for Almond Risotto with Roasted Baby Parsnips and Crispy Sage is suitable for the following diets:
- Vegan: The recipe contains no animal products or by-products.
- Vegetarian: Again, no animal flesh is involved in this recipe.
- Plant-Based: All ingredients come from plant sources.
- Gluten-Free: None of the ingredients inherently contain gluten. However, those with severe allergies or celiac disease should ensure all processed ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- Whole Foods Plant-Based: This diet emphasizes minimally processed plant foods. The recipe aligns well with this diet as it uses whole foods and minimizes processed ingredients.
- Mediterranean: The use of olive oil, vegetables, and grains aligns with the principles of the Mediterranean diet.
- Whole Health Flexi-Plan: The recipe adheres to the principles of focusing on whole, minimally processed foods and maintaining flexibility in dietary choices.
Savor the nutritious delight of Whole Health Flexi-Plan's Almond Risotto with Roasted Baby Parsnips and Crispy Sage. This comforting dish balances rich almond-infused risotto with the earthy sweetness of roasted parsnips, topped with crispy sage for a satisfying crunch. A mindful meal that's both health-conscious and indulgent.
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 shallots (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cup Arborio rice or similar gluten-free short-grain rice
- 1 l hot vegetable stock (preferably homemade or a low-sodium, no-added-sugar variety)
- 2 tbsp sliced almonds for garnish
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1/4 cup almond butter (Silver Fork almond butter)
- 1/4 cup pecorino cheese (nutritional yeast a dairy-free alternative to pecorino cheese that offers a similar cheesy flavor, rich in B-vitamins)
- 1 lb baby parsnips (peeled)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup (you can decrease the amount or omit for a less sweet version)
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 12 fresh sage leaves (use organic if possible)
Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F). Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the eschalot, garlic, salt, and pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4–5 minutes or until soft.
Add the rice and cook, stirring, for 1–2 minutes. Add the stock, 1 cup (250ml) at a time, adding more once absorbed, and cook, stirring frequently, for 20 minutes or until rice is al dente. Remove from the heat and stir through the almond butter and nutritional yeast.
While the rice is cooking, place the parsnips, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar and 1 tablespoon of the oil in a small roasting dish lined with parchment paper. Roast for 30 minutes or until golden and caramelised.
Heat the remaining oil in a small frying pan over high heat. Add the sage and cook for 30 seconds or until crispy.
Divide the risotto between plates and top with the parsnips, sage, salt, pepper and a sprinkle of extra nutritional yeast to serve
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 570kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 20g31%
- Saturated Fat 2.49g13%
- Sodium 380mg16%
- Potassium 850mg25%
- Total Carbohydrate 90g30%
- Dietary Fiber 7g29%
- Sugars 12g
- Protein 12g24%
- Calcium 120 mg
- Iron 5 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.