I would literally be lost without hummus. I put this tasty chickpea puree on salads, sandwiches, and inside wraps. I dip raw veggies and whole wheat pita into it for a healthy snack. Plain hummus is a blend of chickpeas (or garbanzo beans), sesame seed paste (or tahini), lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. Any number of spices, veggies, and nuts can be added to change up its flavor. Beans, like chickpeas, are an awesome source of fiber, healthy fats, and a great source of protein for vegetarians. I try to eat beans most days and hummus makes it easy.

My husband’s aunt turned us onto this flavorful teriyaki sauce a few years ago and there’s been no going back. Stir fry up some chicken and broccoli, add some Veri Teri, and you have a super fast, nutritious dinner that beats take out any night. Alternatively, you could add a tablespoon to steamed spinach or cooked butternut squash and you have a yummy side dish. I was fearful I wouldn’t be able to find Veri Teri in the UK, but it is available at WholeFood!

I love fruit in general, but apples get top rank because I can take them anywhere. Car trips, flights, train rides, wherever I go, I have an apple or two in my bag. I also slice them up and microwave them in my morning oatmeal or spread with peanut butter as a snack. They make a great accompaniment to a cheese plate as well.

To reduce chances of developing heart disease and high cholesterol, the buzz is to cut back on saturated fats found in animal products and replace with plant fats like olive oil, avocado, and nuts and seeds. A great source of monounsaturated fat, potassium, and vitamin C, avocado slices make a healthy substitute for cheese (which is mostly saturated fat) on sandwiches and salads. Try a tomato, avocado side salad with a pour of olive oil and balsamic vinegar.  Add chicken and cannellini beans and you have a meal.

Peanut butter should be made from peanuts. Sugar, salt, emulsifiers, added oils, and preservatives are unnecessary additions. I made the switch from the standard peanut butter I grew up on (think Jiff or Skippy) to the all natural variety about 7 years ago. It took awhile to get used to the no salt, no sugar added version, but now I could never go back. If I have the other it tastes like candy, completely fake. Peanuts are another great source of unsaturated fat, protein, and a variety of vitamins/minerals, and peanut butter sandwiches make quick, portable lunches and snacks. Use whole grain bread and add banana or apple slices to get added health boosts.

What are some of the foods you can’t live without?