Easy and Healthy Recipes for Gen Y

Generation Y is busy. We work hard and we play hard and that leaves little time to concentrate on making healthy meals for ourselves. However, we all know that healthy eating is an important part of the equation for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. And it has been proven that the health decisions we make now have a big impact on our health as we progress into middle age.

I love great tasting food (and I live in New Orleans, so believe me, I know what it tastes like!). I am challenging myself to start cooking healthy meals instead of turning to my usual take-out standbys. Most recipes make 4-6 servings, which complicates things for young adults living in single or small households. So I am in search of recipes that are great tasting, quick, and create leftovers that keep well and can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner over the following days!

This first recipe was introduced to me by my friend, Sajal, who brought it to a potluck dinner. It’s amazing! The lime-cilantro vinaigrette gives a fresh and tangy taste that is perfect for those hot summer days while the edamame and black beans keep you full and satisfied. It can be enjoyed as a healthy snack, a side dish, or give yourself 2 servings and have it for your meal! I have also posted the nutritional information. Enjoy!

Edamame Salad (8 servings)

5 tbsp red wine vinegar

3 tbsp grape seed oil

1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro

2 limes, juiced

1 tsp white sugar

3/4 tsp salt

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 lb package frozen shelled edamame

1 lb package frozen yellow corn kernels

1 pint cherry tomatoes, quartered

4 green onions, thinly sliced

1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained

1. In a large serving bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, grape seed oil, cilantro, lime juice, sugar, salt and garlic. Set aside.

2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the edamame and boil for 3 minutes. Add corn to the boiling water and continue cooking for 1 more minute. Drain very well, and pour into the bowl with the dressing. Gently mix in the cherry tomatoes, green onions and black beans. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to chill and blend the flavors.

Calories- 200

Total Fat- 8.7g

Cholesterol- 0g

Sodium- 4mg

Carbohydrates- 21.8g

Dietary Fiber- 3.8g

Sugars- 7.4g

Protein- 11.6g