SAFE TREATS FOR THE SWEET

Recipes to help those with diabetes enjoy Valentine’s Day

Every day can be Valentine’s Day with thoughtful preparations, especially for those on special diets.

Last week’s column featured recipes for sweet and decadent treats. Keep in mind, however, those with allergies and special dietary requirements need to be careful of what they consume.

Perhaps you reserved a table for two at your favorite restaurant or will prepare a romantic dinner at home. In either case, you want that dinner to be spectacular. If you or your valentine are diabetic, a box of chocolates is out of the question, but do you have to forgo the scrumptious dinner as well? Not at all. If the two of you are cooking at home, you can enjoy a romantic meal that doesn’t leave either of you feeling deprived and you can prepare it without foods that are high in sodium, saturated fat, sugar or refined carbs.

“The Diabetes Superfoods Cookbook and Meal Planner,” by Cassandra L. Verdi and Stephanie A. Dunbar (American Diabetes Association, 2019, $19.95) will help you create an unforgettable Valentine’s Day dinner, emphasizing the diabetes superfoods your body needs.

The authors define a diabetes superfood as rich in nutrients that benefit diabetes management or nutrients that are typically lacking in the American diet. I learned quite a bit about a diabetic’s diet, reading the 100-plus flavor-packed recipes that are simple to prepare and contain one or more diabetes superfoods to maximize the nutrient density in the diet. You will find helpful the 40 days of meal plans that incorporate the recipes.

The diabetes-friendly Valentine’s Day dinner recipes from the book may make Cupid swoon. For the recipe for fig and walnut yogurt tarts, visit https://bit.ly/2BphKym

I like what co-author Cassandra Verdi said, “And yes, you can even enjoy some dessert together.” When you have friends and family who are diabetic over for a dinner party, the book will be handy, too.

Mittera Creative / Contributed photos Pan-seared scallops with vegetable ribbons is an elegant dish for a special occasion.

“Diabetes Superfoods Cookbook and Meal Planner: Power-Packed Recipes and Meal Plans Designed to Help You Lose Weight and Manage Your Blood Glucose” (American Diabetes Association)

Lemon raspberry chia seed pudding packs in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids as well as protein and fiber.

Fig and walnut yogurt tarts can be served as an appetizer or snack.