Kristen replied:
Throughout Eat Easy, we often say to buy foods without added salt, sugar or sauces. But we’re not suggesting your food should be bland or boring. There are so many great flavors you can try.
Adding your own seasonings means you’ll get fewer artificial ingredients and you can control the sugar and salt. Here are some great ideas to help you get started—experiment with small amounts at first to see what you like.
| Basil | Use in pastas, soups, salads, vegetables, fish and meats |
| Black pepper | You don’t have to pair it with salt—pepper adds a kick on its own |
| Chili powder | Use chili powder or red pepper flakes in soups, stews, salads, vegetables and fish |
| Cinnamon | Use with chili, curries, vegetables, breads, desserts and snacks |
| Cloves | Use in soups, salads and vegetables |
| Dill | Use the green parts and seeds with fish, potato dishes and vegetables |
| Garlic | Fresh or powdered garlic adds to almost any sauce, marinade or finished dish |
| Ginger | Use in beverages, soups, poultry and stir-fries |
| Lemon | Lemon zest or juice can bring out the flavors in vegetables, chicken and fish |
| Mint | Try with pasta, couscous or vegetables, or to flavor your water |
| Nutmeg | Use in vegetables, meats and snacks, and in breads in place of sugar |
| Oregano | Use in pastas, pizza, soup, salads, vegetables, meats and chicken |
| Parsley | Sprinkle on pastas, salads, vegetables, fish and meats. |
| Rosemary | Chop up and mix with pastas, dips, salads, vegetables, fish and meats |
| Sage | Use in fall soups, salads, vegetables, meats and chicken |
| Thyme | Use in salads, vegetables, fish and chicken |
| Vinegar | A sprinkle of vinegar adds bright flavor to fish, vegetables and marinades |