Contributed by Jennifer Andrews, Catalogs.com Top 10 Guru
Apples are one of the most versatile foods around and a great addition to any healthy meal plan.
In addition to being low in calories and fats, apples are a source of natural sugars which can help satisfy a sweet tooth and prevent cravings for unhealthy treats. Try a few recipes ideas from the following top ten things to make with apples.
10. Applesauce
Making applesauce is a great way to use up extra apples you have in your fridge or on your counter. Although there are various ways to make applesauce, typically cored and peeled apples are boiled in a large pot with water until they get soft and mushy. Once cooked add seasonings such as cinnamon and some sugar to taste.
9. Apple pie
Who doesn’t love dessert? An apple pie is a tasty and healthier alternative to desserts that have no fruit or are artificially sweetened. Since apples are naturally sweet, you can also cut back on the amount of sugar you use as well as the amount of oil called for in a recipe as cooked apples provide moistness to your pie.
8. Snack
One of the easiest things you can make with an apple is simply a healthy snack! A fresh, crunchy apple helps to satisfy a sweet tooth and afternoon hunger cravings for vending machine foods that are high in fats and sugars. Add a tablespoon of peanut butter or almond butter to your apple for added protein that will fill you up and prevent blood sugar levels from spiking.
7. Apple sandwich
Apples add a delightful crunch to any sandwich for a healthy mid-day lunch meal. Slice up an apple and sneak pieces between two slices of whole-grain bread spread with peanut butter or stuff into a turkey and lettuce pita.
6. Baked apple
A baked apple is a great snack alternative to sugar-laden food such as bars and cookies. Core an apple and fill with a combined mixture of spices, chopped nuts and a small amount of sugar. Bake in the oven for approximately 30 to 40 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. Apple pancakes
Chop apples up into fine pieces and add to pancake batter for a fun and healthy twist on traditional pancakes. Top with maple syrup and sliced apples for extra crunch!
4. Apple crisp
An apple crisp is a great way to use up extra apples for a delicious dessert or snack that is sure to please family and friends. Combine apples with rolled oats, sugar and cinnamon among other staple ingredients such as in this recipe found on Allrecipes.com.
3. Apple and carrot salad
Prepare a simple salad at home by combining leafy greens such as spinach or kale with diced apples, grated carrots and raisins for sweetness. Top with a light balsamic vinaigrette dressing for a light lunch or appetizer.
2. Apple topping
Have you ever tried sautéing apples? Try this simple and delicious apple topping idea from Allrecipes.com that involves cooking apples in a hot skillet with butter until tender. Add seasonal spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg as well as brown sugar that can be served with waffles for breakfast or over pastry for an after-dinner dessert. Make them less sweet and serve with meats like pork and duck.
1. Apple butter
Make your own apple butter at home instead of purchasing pricey butters and spreads at stores. Apple butter makes a healthy alternative to jams and jellies that contains added sugars or artificial sweeteners. Use as a spread for toast, crackers, muffins or tortillas.