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Health & Fitness

Pecan Perfection

Pecans are a healthy and delicious meat substitute in savory dishes.

Are you a nut for pecans? I am. Today is National Pecan Day. If you don’t eat many pecans, here are a few reasons why you may want to add them to your diet. 

 

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In addition to being rich and delicious, pecans are packed with nutrition too. Like most nuts—the edible kind—they are good sources of protein. They are also rich in omega-6 fatty acids. The antioxidants and plant sterols found in pecans can reduce high cholesterol by lowering the "bad" LDL cholesterol levels. Pecans also contain over 19 vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin E, folic acid, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, several B vitamins, and zinc.

 

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Many people put these nuts in the snack or dessert category—think chocolate pecan pie, or the Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies my grandmother used to make. But, did you know they are also great to use as a protein source in place of meat in savory recipes? One my favorite recent creations is the gluten-free dish pictured here. I used brown rice spaghetti noodles, and then made a pesto with extra virgin olive oil, garlic, and fresh basil. It couldn’t have been quicker, easier, or more delicious.

 

If you’d like to see more about great easy cookbook recipes click here.

 

Have a Happy National Pecan Day!

 

Photo Courtesy of Easy Weekly Meals Touchscreen Cookbooks

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