Enchanting eats with edamame infusions
Edamame, or young soybeans traditionally used in East Asian cuisine, have gained global popularity for their health benefits and versatility in the kitchen. Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, edamame are a nutritious addition to any meal. Discover five creative ways to use edamame in your cooking, adding both nutrition and a burst of flavor to your dishes.
Edamame hummus for a healthy snack
Give traditional hummus a makeover with the addition of edamame. Simply cook one cup of shelled edamame until tender, then blend with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil until smooth. This green version of hummus not only adds a pop of color but also increases the protein content. Serve with vegetable sticks or whole-grain crackers for a healthy snack.
Refreshing edamame salad boost
Take your salads to the next level by adding cooked edamame. Pair them with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and feta cheese for a deliciously refreshing salad. Top it off with a light vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Not only does edamame add a fun texture, but it also significantly boosts the overall nutritional value of the salad.
Protein-packed edamame pasta
If you want to up your protein game without turning to meat or dairy, edamame pasta is the way to go. Find it at your local health food store or snag it online for about $5 a pack, and use it as a swap in any of your go-to pasta meals. Throw it together with some sauce or veggies and you've got yourself a quick, hearty, and healthy meal.
Smoothie with an edamame kick
Add a surprising twist to your morning smoothie routine by incorporating shelled edamame. Simply blend one cup of cooked edamame with banana slices, spinach leaves, almond milk, and a touch of honey for sweetness if desired. This addition not only thickens the smoothie but also offers a boost of plant-based protein and fiber to start your day off right.
Sweet treats: Edamame desserts
Add cooked edamame to dessert recipes for a creative twist on sweet treats. One easy suggestion is chocolate-covered edamame - simply dip cooled beans into melted dark chocolate and refrigerate until set. Or, blend them into batters for cakes or brownies - they'll add moisture and a nutritional boost without significantly changing the flavor.
