What better way to celebrate Valentine's Day than with some health for your heart? Here are two healthy ways to make this day special!
Grab a loved one and go for a brisk walk or hike to get your blood flowing. Walking with a friend is a great way to develop relationships while burning calories and exercising your muscles- one of the most important being your heart muscle. If possible, try to walk for at least 30-45 minutes to maximize physiological benefits. Instead of sitting, or talking on the phone, talk while you walk! And when you are finished, treat yourselves to the yummy recipe below.
The combination of strawberries and chocolate is a tasty pairing. Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and are full of antioxidants, as well as containing anti-inflammatory properties that help to lower cancer rates and promote healthy joints. Plus, they are low in calories, containing only about 43 Kcal/cup. Rich, delicious dark chocolate also has some important health benefits. Some studies have shown it to lower blood pressure and cholesterol. It also contains potent antioxidants that help in fighting off heart disease. It is important to purchase chocolate that has 70% or higher cocoa content, not just chocolate that is labeled "dark". Since chocolate is high in calories, small amounts are best when it comes to health benefits. It's not good to replace healthy foods with dark chocolate, but to satisfy that sweet tooth, it's not a bad option. When coupled with a fresh strawberry, the pairing produces a delectable ending to a special meal. Try the recipe below using your favorite dark chocolate!
Dark Chocolate Covered Strawberries
One 1lb container of fresh strawberries, washed and thoroughly dried, stems intact
12 oz of Dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), broken into small pieces
1 Tbsp shortening or canola oil, optional (it makes the chocolate shinier and a bit easier to work with but is not necessary)
Melt the chocolate and shortening together in a double boiler. If you don't have a double boiler you can simmer water in a small pan and place a bowl over (but not touching the water) the pan. Alternatively, put the chocolate (and shortening or oil if using) in a microwave safe bowl and microwave at 50% power for 30 second intervals, stirring until smooth. Chocolate will melt at low temperatures and burns easily, so watch it carefully, stirring often.
Once the chocolate is just melted, remove from heat. Holding the strawberries by the large end or stem, dip and swirl them in the chocolate, until coated evenly. Place the chocolate berries on a baking sheet covered with wax paper or parchment paper. Let them cool to room temperature before refrigerating until ready to serve.
