Embrace National Heart Month with Heart Healthy Eating  

 

February is National Heart Month, the perfect time to reflect on how our eating habits can impact our overall health and longevity. At Breeze Blends, we believe that eating well doesn’t have to be boring or complicated. With the right seasonings, you can create delicious, heart-healthy meals that you’ll love.

In this post, we’ll explore the importance of heart health, the role of diet, and how the carefully crafted seasoning blends from Breeze Blends can help you maintain a healthier lifestyle. Plus, we’ll wrap up with a flavorful recipe to inspire your next meal.

Why Heart Health Matters

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the U.S., but the good news is that it’s largely preventable through a healthy lifestyle. Key factors for maintaining heart health include: 

·       Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

·       Limiting saturated fats, sodium, and added sugars.

·       Staying active and managing stress levels.

Examples of foods to incorporate into your daily diet include:

·       Fruits and Vegetables for essential vitamins and minerals.

·       Lean Proteins like fish, poultry, tofu and legumes.

·       Healthy Fats such as olive oil, avocados, nuts, and seeds.

·       Whole Grains for fiber and heart support.

Limiting sodium and added sugars is also essential. Instead of using salt-heavy seasonings, using herbs and spices can boost flavor while improving your heart health.

The Role of Herbs and Spices in Heart Health

Spices don’t just enhance taste – they also provide nutrients and antioxidants that support cardiovascular health. Many of the ingredients in Breeze Blends’ seasonings have proven health benefits:

1.     Garlic: Known to help lower cholesterol and blood pressure.

2.     Paprika: Full of antioxidants that support blood flow and reduce inflammation.

3.     Oregano and Basil: Loaded with anti-inflammatory properties and heart-protecting compounds.

4.     Black Pepper: improves nutrient absorption and may lower cholesterol levels.

These ingredients not only deliver bold, vibrant flavors but also help you craft meals that are good for your heart.

Why Choose Breeze Blends?

At Breeze Blends, we’re committed to creating seasonings that let you cook with confidence and care. Here’s how our blends support a heart-healthy lifestyle:

·       Low-Sodium Options: Our Italian, Steakhouse and Southwest blends are crafted with lower sodium levels, offering heart-friendly choices for a sodium restricted diet.

·       Clean Ingredients: All of our blends are free from artificial additives, GMOs, and preservatives, so you can enjoy pure, natural seasonings.

·       Crafted with Care: Made in small batches to ensure freshness and exceptional taste.

When you choose Breeze Blends, you’re choosing natural, clean eating options that make healthy cooking easy. Ready to spice up your kitchen? Browse our collection of seasoning blends here.

 

 

Heart-Healthy Recipe:

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

 

To inspire you in the kitchen, we’ve created a recipe using our Italian Blend. This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is light, fresh, and full of heart-healthy ingredients.

Ingredients:

·       1 cup quinoa, rinsed

·       2 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth

·       1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

·       1 cucumber, diced

·       ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped

·       ¼ cup kalamata olives, sliced

·       ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

·       2 tablespoons of olive oil

·       2 ½ tablespoons lemon juice

·       1 ½ tablespoons Breeze Blends Italian Blend

·       Sliced avocado for garnish

·       Sliced radish for garnish

Instructions:

1.     Cook the Quinoa: Combine quinoa and broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer until tender and liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool.

2.     Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, and Breeze Blends Italian Blend. Adjust to taste.

3.     Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, mix quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives. Drizzle with the dressing and toss to coat.

4.     Add Garnish: Top with avocado, radish, feta cheese.

This dish is perfect as a main course or side.