By: Julia Mertes, Communications Intern, The Lion’s Pantry
In moderation, raisins act as a healthy alternative to chocolate-based treats and other sweeteners. Like many other dried fruits, raisins can be high in sugar; however, they have many health benefits, according to Healthline.
For instance, as a form of soluble fiber, raisins aid digestion and gut health. Studies demonstrate that raisins can provide heart health benefits through reductions in blood pressure and managing blood sugar levels, according to WebMD.
If you’re looking for some new ways to incorporate these treats into your diet, look no further. We have 6 suggestions for you that will be perfect when meal planning.
1. Stir raisins into your salad.
Raisins can elevate the taste of your salad. Sprinkle raisins in along with walnuts, chopped apple, red onions, spinach, shredded American cheese and celery. This will result in a fresh and flavorful meal, especially after a hot day in the sun.
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2. Incorporate raisins within homemade trail mix.
The perfect trail mix combo contains dried fruit like raisins, seeds, nuts, and sweet treats like chocolate. If you need a quick, energizing snack after a long day of work, trail mix is a solid option that is easy to make and enjoy.
If you need a trail mix recipe suggestion, then we have you covered. Combine 1 ½ cups of peanuts, 1 cup of cashews, ½ cup of raisins and 1 cup of dark chocolate chips in a bowl. Separate into sealable bags for an easily portable snack.
3. Make “Ants on a Log” as a traditional afternoon snack.
“Ants on a Log” is a common childhood snack composed of chopped celery, a dollop of peanut butter, and raisins. Other variations of “Ants on a Log” including dips, spreads, or yogurt, rather than peanut butter.
4. Add raisins into your popcorn.
Rather than sprinkling chocolate candies on your popcorn for additional sweetness, consider using raisins—a healthy but delicious alternative.
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5. Incorporate raisins into your morning oatmeal or parfait.
Add extra flavor to your breakfast by pouring your desired helping of raisins into your oatmeal.
To complement your dish, sprinkle in 2 tbsp of brown sugar, ¼ tsp of ground nutmeg, 1 tsp of vanilla, and ½ tsp of ground cinnamon. Nuts like walnuts and pecans will be the perfect ingredient to top off your dish.
Raisins also make great parfait toppings along with granola, nuts and other fruit-based products.
6. Whip up some No-Bake Raisin Cookies.
If you’re a cookie lover, then these no-bake raisin cookies will be right up your alley.
You’ll need the following ingredients: ½ cup raisins, 1 ½ cups rolled oats, 1 cup of nut butter, and ½ cup maple syrup. Including extra spices like cinnamon can add extra flavor to your dish.
Mix all the ingredients together in a medium-size bowl. Helpful tip: warm your peanut butter or almond butter and maple syrup in a separate container in the microwave for 20 seconds for easier mixing. Once combined, separate the mixture into inch-sized chunks, and chill in the fridge until solid.
What is your favorite way to incorporate raisins into your diet? Share your tips and suggestions with us!
