A Better-for-You Breakfast Favorite
Whether you’re encouraging loved ones to start a new wellness kick or looking to add new ideas to an already-nutritious menu, families at any stage of a journey toward better health can use newfound favorites to bring fresh flavors to the table.
Start by ramping up your family’s breakfast with these slightly sweet Mini Greek Yogurt Pancakes with Cinnamon-Maple Topping for a protein-packed way to start the day with a healthy addition of fresh berries. This dish from Milk Means More provides a delicious breakfast that allows you to bring everyone together for a tasty, nutritious meal no matter the occasion. Dairy foods, like the low-fat or fat-free milk and yogurt found in this recipe, are fundamental to good nutrition.
Constructing a better-for-you menu calls for a balanced diet with a variety of foods to get essential nutrients. This balance is important for maintaining healthy gut and immune function while optimizing overall wellness.
Mini Greek Yogurt Pancakes with Cinnamon-Maple Topping
Recipe courtesy of Marcia Stanley, MS, RDN, culinary dietitian, on behalf of Milk Means More
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings:6
Topping:
1 3/4 cups plain Greek yogurt (fat free, 2% or 5%)
1/3 cup maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pancakes:
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 egg, lightly beaten
3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (fat free, 2% or 5%)
1/2 cup milk (skim, 2% or whole)
3 tablespoons melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla
oil
1 cup fresh blueberries or chopped fresh strawberries
To make topping: Stir yogurt, syrup and cinnamon. Cover and refrigerate.
To make pancakes: In mixing bowl, stir flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In separate bowl, whisk egg, yogurt, milk, butter and vanilla. Add yogurt mixture to flour mixture. Stir just until combined (batter should be slightly lumpy).
Scrape batter into large plastic food storage bag. Oil nonstick griddle or large nonstick skillet. Heat over medium heat. Cut off about 1/2 inch from corner of plastic bag. Squeeze batter, about 1 tablespoon at a time, onto hot griddle. Cook 1-2 minutes per side, or until pancakes are golden brown, turning to second sides when bubbles form on surface of pancakes and edges are slightly dry.
Serve warm pancakes topped with cinnamon-maple yogurt and sprinkled with berries.
(Family Features) Find additional better-for-you recipe inspiration at MilkMeansMore.org.
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Valentine’s Day Fashion That Steals the Heart
As February unfolds, love is in the air, and what better way to celebrate the season of romance than by dressing chic and stylish to capture the essence of Valentine’s Day? Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner date, a cozy night in, or a Galentine’s celebration with friends, let your fashion choices reflect the love and warmth of the occasion. Here’s a guide to help you curate the perfect Valentine’s Day wardrobe.
Classic Elegance in Red
Red, the color of love, is a timeless choice for Valentine’s Day. Opt for a classic red dress that radiates confidence. Whether it’s a sleek midi, a playful wrap dress, a sophisticated gown, or a cozy sweater dress, red is sure to make a bold statement. Complement your look with subtle accessories to let red take center stage.
Soft and Feminine in Pink
For a more understated yet equally romantic look, embrace soft shades of pink. Blush tones, dusty rose, and pastel pinks are all elegant choices that exude femininity. Consider a pink blouse paired with tailored trousers or a pink maxi skirt with a neutral top. This color palette brings a touch of sweetness to your Valentine’s Day ensemble.
Edgy in Black Lace
If you’re drawn to a more sophisticated and edgy vibe, consider incorporating black lace into your outfit. A black lace dress or a top paired with leather pants strikes the perfect balance between sultry and chic. Add bold accessories like statement earrings or a clutch to elevate the overall allure.
Whimsical Prints and Patterns
Break away from solid colors and opt for whimsical prints that capture the spirit of the season. Heart patterns, floral prints, or even polka dots can add a playful touch to your Valentine’s Day look. Choose a dress or blouse with a unique print that resonates with your personal style.
Cozy Casual for a Night In
If you’re planning a cozy night in with your loved one, opt for stylish yet comfortable loungewear. Cozy knit sweaters or a matching lounge set in soft, luxurious fabrics can create a laid-back yet effortlessly chic vibe for your celebration at home.
Galentine’s Day Glam
Celebrating with your gals? Coordinate outfits or choose matching accessories to showcase your camaraderie. Consider playful details like heart- shaped jewelry or matching colors to add a festive touch to your Galentine’s Day gathering.
Remember to personalize your Valentine’s Day outfit to reflect your unique style and personality. Whether you prefer classic elegance, modern edge, or whimsical, let your fashion choices speak volumes about the love and joy you’re celebrating. This Valentine’s Day, embrace the opportunity to express yourself through fashion and create lasting memories in style!
Valentine’s Gift Guide
FOR HER
STANLEY CUP
These tumblers are all the rage! If you manage to get your hands on a Valentine’s Day edition, your girl is sure to love it. www.target.com
BOOKISH CANDLES
For the bookworm in your life, get a candle that smells like her favorite books and characters. www.briarwickcandles.com
FLOWERS
You can never go wrong with flowers – order a dozen red roses or a bouquet in her favorite color to show your love.
JEWERLY
Show your love with something she can treasure and wear forever. www.swarovski.com
WINE WITH CUSTOM LABEL
For vino lovers, pick out a bottle of her favorite wine and customize the label to show how much you love her. www.personalwine.com
FRAMED PORTRAIT
Have your favorite picture of the two of you painted and framed so she can display it proudly at home or at the office. www.etsy.com
FOR HIM
BLUETOOTH SHOWER SPEAKER
A waterproof speaker that mounts right onto the shower wall so that he can listen to music and doesn’t have to miss a second of the game. www.amazon.com
SPORTS / CONCERT TICKETS
Give the gift of an experience to see his favorite band or team live in action!
COLOGNE
He’ll appreciate his signature scent, or if you’re feeling bold, have one custom designed. www.maison21g.com
HEADPHONES
The perfect gift for the gym, the morning commute, or chilling with a good audiobook! www.amazon.com
WHISKEY
A bottle of his favorite top-shelf whiskey to use for special occasions. www.liquorbardelivery.com
THE BUCKET LIST BOOK
One thousand ideas for adventures as a couple, with the boys, or solo! www.amazon.com
Date Night With Your Valentine
DINNER DATE WITH A TWIST:
Instead of opting for a traditional dinner at a restaurant, consider a themed cooking night at home. Choose a cuisine you both love or have been wanting to try, gather the ingredients, and cook together. It’s a delightful way to bond, share laughs, and create a delicious meal as a couple.
MOVIE & TAKE OUT NIGHT:
Embrace the warmth indoors by creating a movie night haven within your living space. Build a fort with blankets and pillows, dim the lights, and project your favorite films on a blank wall or set up a cozy movie corner. Order some takeout to enjoy while you snuggle up and watch your favorite movies together.
WEEKEND GETAWAY:
Escape the routine and embark on a romantic weekend getaway. Whether it’s a cozy cabin in the mountains, a beachside retreat, or a charming bed and breakfast, a change of scenery can rekindle the flame. Take the time to explore new surroundings, enjoy intimate conversations, and make lasting memories together.
PAINT & SIP:
Unleash your artistic sides with a Paint & Sip night. Find a local art studio or set up a canvas at home with your favorite beverages. Follow a painting tutorial together or create your own masterpieces. It’s a fantastic way to express your creativity while enjoying each other’s company.
20 lucky winners will win $500 each in prizes totaling $10,000.