Poppy seeds are not only delicious additions to classic recipes, but are also packed with nutrients. These seeds add 3.4 grams of dietary fiber for every two tablespoons used, helping you stay full and lowering blood cholesterol levels. Poppy seeds also help bone health, protect against DNA damage, and are heart healthy! Below are three recipes that show you ways you can integrate poppy seeds into recipes you’re already making.
Poppy Seed Muffins
Breakfast on the run? Reach for one of these nutrient-packed, make-ahead poppy seed muffins.
Ingredients:
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup whole wheat flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 cup nonfat plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 egg whites
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon lemon extract
- 2 teaspoons grated fresh lemon peel
Procedure:
- Start with preheating the oven to 400°F.
- Lightly oil eight cups, spray with a nonstick cooking spray, or use paper liners.
- In a large bowl, combine all dry ingredients, including the poppy seeds, and mix well.
- Use a fork or a wire whisk to blend.
- Add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, combining until all ingredients are moistened.
- Spoon the batter into the muffin cups evenly.
- Bake for 15 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted.
- Place muffins on a cooling rack.
Poppy Seed Salad Dressing
Poppy seed dressings are perfect for summer, and at 45 calories for two tablespoons, who can resist?
Ingredients:
- ½ whole milk yogurt
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons raw apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
- Pinch of salt and pepper (optional)
Whisk the ingredients together and enjoy over fresh strawberries or a refreshing summer salad.
Poppy Seed Chicken
A complete and healthy meal is coming your way with this savory and zesty chicken dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
- 16 ounces of poppy seed salad dressing (above recipe or store bought)
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 2 lemons, sliced
- Chopped red onion, sliced strawberries, or parsley to garnish (optional)
Procedure:
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F.
- For an easy clean up, lay foil over the baking sheet and lay out your chicken breasts.
- Pour salad dressing over the tops of each.
- Bake for 25 minutes. The juices should run clear when pricked with a fork.
- While the chicken is baking, place a cup of spinach on each plate.
- Place each chicken breast on top of the spinach.
- Squeeze some fresh lemon juice down over the top and add the optional garnish.
Integrating poppy seeds into foods you already eat is easy. Order some from a site like Sincerely Nuts and try out these recipes today. Adding a teaspoon of poppy seeds to your meal can give you a nutrient boost while pleasing your taste buds.
