Frozen vegetables just got a boost of nutrition. Let’s learn about Steamfresh Protein Blends and why they are #RDapproved making this a Supermarket RD’s Pick.
Frozen vegetables are a staple that you will always find in my freezer. Throw them in the microwave for perfectly steamed veggies, toss them in a stir fry, or add them to a salad. When those (like myself) have limited time some days, it’s the only way I can meet my veggie needs for the day.
The question often comes up “Are frozen vegetables as nutritious as fresh?”
YES! When all vegetables are harvested, one batch is transported to supermarkets or farmer’s markets whereas the other batch is transported to a factory where they are peeled, chopped, and steam blanched (to minimize any nutrient loss and to deactivate any enzymes that could cause deterioration.)
Then the vegetables are immediately quick-frozen (also known as ‘flash frozen’) locking in all their good-for-you nutrients. During the freezing process, there are no additives or preservatives added. Freezing is a natural way in preventing bacterial growth in food and maintaining nutritional quality.
Once frozen, vegetables retain their nutritional value from the day they are picked.
What makes these blends a little extra special? They are packed with not just vegetables, but with plant based proteins and whole grains! Plant based proteins provide an array of health benefits and we should try to include them more into our daily diets. Some of their health benefits include that they are high in fiber, provides adequate protein for growth and repair, high in vitamins and minerals, low in saturated fat, and have a much lower caloric concentration than animal protein overall, which allows for more volume of plant based proteins. Plus, plant based proteins are more cost effective!
Recently, I’ve incorporated the southwest style blend into taco night and loved the italian style blend on top of a bed of baby spinach.
A blend of whole grains, black beans, corn, lentils, and red bell peppers.
A blend of whole grains, lentils, peas, broccoli, and shelled edamame.
A blend of whole grains, lentils, spinach, broccoli, and white beans.
A blend of whole grains, shelled edamame, carrots, and red peppers.
How will you use Steamfresh Protein Blends?
Disclosure: Birds Eye did not sponsor this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own to share healthy items found in your grocery store to RDelicious Kitchen readers.