6 Mindful Food Choices for National Nutrition Month
In our family, we believe that small, intentional changes to the way we eat can have a big impact on our overall health—and it doesn’t have to be complicated. That’s why this National Nutrition Month, we’re celebrating the power of wholesome, delicious ingredients to create meals that are both balanced and satisfying.
Dried fruits are an easy way to add natural sweetness, flavor, and nutrients to your meals. Here are 6 mindful ways to enjoy them in your diet this month (and beyond):
1. Make Breakfast Better
Starting your day with a balanced, nutrient-packed meal sets the tone for the rest of your day. Mariani Raisins or Mariani Mango are perfect for adding natural sweetness to warm oatmeal or granola. For extra flavor, try blending dried fruit into your favorite pancake batter or smoothie—simple ways to make your mornings more nourishing.
2. Prep Snacks in Advance
Having nutritious snacks on hand helps you avoid impulse snacking when hunger strikes. Planning ahead is a key recommendation during National Nutrition Month. Try making Probiotic Apricot Almond Bars or No-Bake Choco Prune Power Bars. These homemade snacks are easy to prepare, portable, and packed with delicious flavor to keep you fueled throughout the day.
3. Cook with Intention
Cooking at home is one of the best ways to stay in control of your meals and make sure you’re making thoughtful food choices. Use Mariani Chopped Dates or Mariani Dried Apricots to add natural sweetness and depth to dishes. For inspiration, try our recipe for Apricot-Glazed Roasted Vegetables with Mariani Dried Apricots. It’s a versatile and flavorful side dish that pairs beautifully with your favorite proteins or grains, making it a great addition to any meal.
4. Create Your Own Trail Mix
Skip the pre-packaged options and assemble your own trail mix at home. Combine dates, dried apricots, cranberries, and raisins with raw nuts, seeds, and a handful of dark chocolate chips for a snack that’s as tasty as it is nutritious. Perfect for lunchboxes, road trips, or a quick pick-me-up between meals.
5. Add a Nutrient Boost to Salads
A handful of dried fruit can take your salad to the next level. Toss cranberries or chopped dates into a spinach and arugula mix for a burst of sweetness, or pair dried apricots with goat cheese and toasted almonds for a gourmet twist. For more inspiration, try our recipes for a Beet, Arugula, and Dried Fruit Salad or Strawberry Caprese Salad Jars—both are fresh, colorful, and packed with flavor.
6. Sweeten Naturally
Reduce added sugars in your diet by turning to dried fruits for natural sweetness. Mariani Dates are perfect for blending into smoothies, while dried cherries or blueberries are excellent for topping yogurt or baking into muffins. These wholesome alternatives satisfy your cravings without sacrificing balance or flavor.
This National Nutrition Month, embrace simple, intentional changes that make a lasting impact on your well-being. By adding wholesome ingredients like Mariani dried fruits to your meals and snacks, you can enjoy both the flavor and the nourishment that support a balanced lifestyle. Small steps, like the ones we’ve shared, can make all the difference—not just this month, but every day.
From our family to yours, Happy National Nutrition Month!