Dine in this New Year

With 2015 in the past and 2016 full of New Year possibilities; many people are in the mist of healthy resolutions. Staying fit and losing weight were the top 2015 resolutions according to a Nielsen survey. Both goals require adding more of the nutritious stuff to meals and not as much of the tempting, less healthy items.

“Keep your resolutions simple,” said Laura Washington, Pottstown community garden manager and fitness trainer.

Washington teaches cooking classes and provides easy, healthy recipes to participants. She shares recipes that are high in flavor, protein and nutrients. She said the meals are perfect for people with busy schedules because they are quick to make and can be eaten on the go.

She teaches meals with simple ingredients that are easy for beginner cooks. A fresh baked salmon dish Washington prepares only has five ingredients and takes about 30 minutes to cook.

Adding fresh, healthy ingredients to meals is a great way to start the New Year, Washington said. She said the focus should be on foods that are good for you instead of on foods that are less nutritious.

“Then it becomes a lifestyle and it’s not just about the resolution,” she said. “I find it easier to accomplish those (healthy) goals if I focus on me and my lifestyle versus the resolution itself.”

PHotoS By MiCHileA PAtteRSoN — DiGitAl FiRSt MeDiA this baked salmon dish is prepared using only five ingredients.

Sam Calvanese chops peppers to add to a healthy meatloaf recipe during a nutritious cooking class.

these stuffed peppers are filled with eggs, chicken sausage and vegetables.

this creamy broccoli soup with coconut milk is made using a blender.

Peppers and parsley are chopped to be added to a healthy home-made dish.