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Top 10 Ways to Add Apples to Your Diet

During the recent COVID restrictions, many of us started viewing home-cooked meals as a solution for saving money and eating healthier. We also recognized that a balanced diet, full of nutrient-rich foods, can support a healthy immune system to keep us well. While restrictions may have lifted, we are still seeking easy, affordable ideas for healthy meals. One easy way to accomplish this is to add apples to your diet.

Since Michigan Apples will be abundant in your local grocery store and farmers markets, be sure to stock up so you have plenty of local apples to include in your weekly menus. Michigan Apples are not only delicious, but they also contain many important nutrients like fiber and vitamin C. In addition, apple skins contain quercetin, a type of plant pigment flavonoid that supports your immune system and reduces inflammation. Adding Michigan Apples to your diet is a simple, easy way to add amazing flavor to your meals while benefiting from their many healthy attributes.

Find out the best apples to use in home cooking and which are best eaten fresh. It’s fun to experiment with the many options for using apples, so go out of your comfort zone to try a few new varieties.

10 Ways to Add Apples to Your Diet

1. Diced and added to cooked oatmeal with walnuts and cinnamon

Enhance your morning routine with a burst of flavor and nutrition by adding diced Michigan Apples to your cooked oatmeal. Paired with crunchy walnuts and a sprinkle of cinnamon, this delightful combination not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a healthy start to your day, packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

2. Diced and layered with vanilla Greek yogurt, granola, and a drizzle of honey

Craft a delectable parfait by layering diced Michigan Apples with creamy vanilla Greek yogurt, crunchy granola, and a touch of honey, creating a wholesome and satisfying treat that celebrates the goodness of both nature and healthy living.

3. Chopped into a green salad with a light balsamic vinaigrette

Pair this vibrant mix with a light balsamic vinaigrette for a deliciously balanced meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying, aligning perfectly with your commitment to healthy living.

4. Sliced with sharp cheddar cheese

This simple yet satisfying combination offers a boost of calcium, fiber, and vitamins, making it a deliciously wholesome choice that fits seamlessly into your healthy lifestyle.

5. Sliced and spread with peanut butter

Packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients, this simple yet delightful pairing is a perfect choice for fueling your active lifestyle and promoting overall well-being through healthy eating habits.

6. Sautéed with a bit of butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon, served over pork chops or chicken

This delectable topping adds a burst of sweet and savory flavor, perfectly complementing the savory notes of your main course.

7. In an easy apple oatmeal crisp

Craft a comforting apple oatmeal crisp by layering sliced Michigan Apples atop a hearty oatmeal base, infused with warm cinnamon and a touch of sweetness. This simple yet indulgent dessert not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also offers a nutritious twist, packed with fiber-rich oats and the wholesome goodness of fresh apples.

8. Diced and mixed with low-fat cottage cheese and cinnamon

This flavorful combination offers a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and vitamins, supporting your healthy lifestyle goals with its nutritious and delicious profile.

9. Thinly sliced and added to a grilled cheese sandwich on sourdough bread

The subtle sweetness and crisp texture of the apples perfectly complement the savory richness of the cheese, creating a gourmet twist on a classic comfort food favorite. With each bite, savor the delicious harmony of flavors while embracing the wholesome goodness of fresh ingredients, making healthy eating a delightful and satisfying experience.

10. Grated into muffins or quick bread

The addition of apples adds natural sweetness and moisture to your baked goods, reducing the need for excess sugar or fat. With each bite, enjoy the delightful burst of apple goodness, while knowing you’re indulging in a wholesome and nutritious snack.

ABC (Apple, Banana, Carrot) Muffins

These moist muffins are chock-full of nutritious ingredients and are perfect for breakfast or snack time.

Makes 1 dozen muffins

Nutrition information (per muffin): 193 Calories; 8g Fat; 26g Carbohydrate; 2.6g Fiber; 4.5g Protein: 266mg Sodium

INGREDIENTS:

• • 1 cup white whole-wheat flour
  • ½ cup almond flour
  • 1 cup oatmeal
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/4 cup canola oil
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 ripe banana, mashed
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 large Michigan Apple, grated, peeled if desired
  • 1 cup grated carrot

DIRECTIONS:

1. 1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
   2. Line a 12-cup standard muffin tin with paper liners or spray with vegetable cooking spray.
   3. In a large bowl, combine the flour, almond flour, oatmeal, salt, baking soda, and cinnamon. Set aside.
   4. In a separate bowl, mix the eggs, oil, milk, banana, and brown sugar with a whisk until smooth.
   5. Add egg mixture to dry ingredients; blend well; fold in the apple and carrots until well combined.
   6. Spoon batter into muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
   7. Bake until the muffins are nicely browned on top and the tops spring back when touched lightly, approximately 20 to 23 minutes.
   8. Allow muffins to cool completely before storing.

More Ways to Add Apples to Your Diet

Baked Squash with Apples and Chicken Sausage

Winter squash and Michigan Apples are so good for you, and they pair deliciously in this recipe that includes brown rice and chicken sausage. All you need to complete this meal is a prepared green salad.

Apple Orchard Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Crunchy sweet Michigan Apples, glazed walnuts, chicken, greens, and Swiss cheese combine for this main dish salad that’s full of fabulous flavor. Use shredded rotisserie chicken to make prep super easy.

Or check out our healthy meal plan and recipes!