A+ Plan August 2009 Newsletter - End Of Summer Berries!

We've had a summer full of berries and other wonderful fruit, but who wants more besides me? Enjoy your final sunny days outside and go berry picking, burning calories, saving money, and spending quality time with friends and family. Or try a farmer's market for some local, fresh and mouthwatering fruit.

Berries provide vitamin C, fiber, anti-inflammatory properties, and loads of antioxidants to help prevent illness and disease (try guava and plums too!). Think elderberries, cranberries, black berries, strawberries and blueberries. And don't be afraid to try a type you have never eaten before. Sweet, healthy and low in calories, they are the perfect treat!

Below are a couple of berry recipes for you to enjoy during your final days of summer.

Berry Fruit Salad
(modified from skinnyandthecity.com)
Serves: 6
Total time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:
1 pint strawberries, de-stemmed and chopped
1 pint blackberries
1 pint blueberries
¼ cup orange juice - You can use pineapple or another flavorful juice that has that tartness.
2 tablespoons lemon juice
½ cup raspberries
4 tablespoons walnuts, finely chopped - About half the amount of protein as chicken, it's a good option, but for less calories and fat, add almonds instead.
4 tablespoons shredded coconut
10 mint leaves, for garnish

Instructions:
Put strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries in a bowl.
Add in orange juice and lemon juice. Gently mix.
Top with raspberries (so they won't get smashed), walnuts, coconut, and mint leaves.
Serve in bowls or martini glasses.

Nutrition Facts:
Serving Size: about 1 1/4 cup
Calories 116 calories
Total Fat 3 g fat (1 g Saturated Fat)
Total Carbohydrate 23 g (7 g fiber)
Protein 2 g
Potassium 278 mg

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