With the New Year come new trends of all kinds, including those for food. Here’s a smattering of what some experts predict will be trends to watch in 2013:
Popcorn as snack of the year. Move over chips and pretzels, popcorn is back! Long a movie-watching staple, popcorn will become THE snack time pick. And why not? Popcorn is a whole grain food and if air-popped, has only 120 calories and 5 grams of fiber in a 4-cup serving. Plus, a study last year found that the crunchy hull in popcorn is loaded with antioxidant compounds called polyphenols, which may help prevent damage to cells. But before you pull out the popper, keep in mind that the potential health benefits of popcorn are negated when it’s drowned in butter, oil and salt. For a better–and spicy– change of taste, try popcorn lightly sprayed with cooking spray and sprinkled with parmesan cheese, chili powder and a dash of cayenne.
Veggies as main dish stars. Veggies will no longer play only supporting roles on the dinner plate–they’ll be center of the plate mainstays, too. Many restaurants are creatively preparing veggies as entrees, something that you can do at home, too. Try vegetarian stuffed peppers, soy-ginger stir fry, or spaghetti squash with pesto. Veggies are important sources of many nutrients, including fiber, folate, potassium and vitamins A and C.
A new focus on frozen. Frozen fruits and veggies will finally get the nutrition recognition that they deserve this year. They’re as nutritious of fresh and offer convenience and cost savings, too. Check here for some of our favorite freezer tips and tricks.
What are your food predictions for 2013?