vol. 7 no. 5 march 1 - march 14 your super savings page!

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Page 1 DISCLAIMER: PICTURES ARE FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY. THE PRODUCTS INCLUDED IN THIS SALE MAY BE DIFFERENT FROM THOSE PICTURED. SOME ITEMS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE AT ALL LOCATIONS. EFFECTIVE FOR CONUS STORES ONLY. your your VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14 FOLLOW US! your your Your Super Savings Page! Your Super Savings Page! Fruit Roll-Ups ® 10 ct. Select Varieties Fruit Snack Rolls SAVE 44% Betty Crocker ® 10 ct. Select Varieties Fruit Flavored Snack Pouches SAVE 44% Cheez-It ® 12.4 oz. Select Varieties Duoz ® Snack Crackers SAVE 52% Stayfree ® Super Maxi Pads 48 ct. SAVE 48% Stayfree TM Ultra Thin Pads 18 ct. SAVE 48% Playtex ® 18 ct. Multi-Pack Gentle Glide ® Tampons SAVE 47% Playtex ® Sport ® Tampons 36 ct. (18 Regular - 18 Super) SAVE 44% Hill's TM Science Diet TM Adult 1-6 Small Bites Dog Food 15 lb. SAVE 54% Carefree ® 60 ct. Original or Acti-Fresh ® Liners SAVE 45% Mott's ® 10 ct. Select Varieties Fruit Flavored Snack Pouches SAVE 46% Schick ® Quattro for Women ® w/4 Cartridges SAVE 44%

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Page 1: VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14 Your Super Savings Page!

Page 1

DISCLAIMER: PICTURES ARE FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY. THE PRODUCTS INCLUDED IN THIS SALE MAY BE DIFFERENT FROM THOSE PICTURED. SOME ITEMS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE AT ALL LOCATIONS. EFFECTIVE FOR CONUS STORES ONLY.

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VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14

FOLLOW US!

your

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Your Super Savings Page!Your Super Savings Page!

Fruit Roll-Ups® 10 ct. Select Varieties Fruit Snack Rolls

SAVE 44%

Betty Crocker® 10 ct. Select Varieties Fruit

Flavored Snack Pouches SAVE 44%

Cheez-It® 12.4 oz. Select Varieties Duoz® Snack Crackers

SAVE 52%

Stayfree® Super Maxi Pads 48 ct.

SAVE 48%

StayfreeTM Ultra Thin Pads 18 ct.

SAVE 48%

Playtex® 18 ct. Multi-Pack Gentle Glide® Tampons

SAVE 47%

Playtex® Sport ® Tampons 36 ct.

(18 Regular - 18 Super) SAVE 44%

Hill'sTM Science DietTM Adult 1-6 Small Bites

Dog Food 15 lb. SAVE 54%

Carefree® 60 ct. Original or

Acti-Fresh® Liners

SAVE 45%

Mott's® 10 ct. Select Varieties Fruit Flavored

Snack PouchesSAVE 46%

Schick® Quattro for Women® w/4 Cartridges

SAVE 44%

Page 2: VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14 Your Super Savings Page!

Page 2

DISCLAIMER: PICTURES ARE FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY. THE PRODUCTS INCLUDED IN THIS SALE MAY BE DIFFERENT FROM THOSE PICTURED. SOME ITEMS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE AT ALL LOCATIONS. EFFECTIVE FOR ALL STORES.

VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14

COMMISSARY REWARDS CARD DIGITAL COUPONS AVAILABLE. READ THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS; LIMITED QUANTITIES.

No more cutting out paper coupons. Save time and money with the Commissary Rewards Card! Simply pick up your Rewards Card at any location worldwide, CLICK HERE to register, and you're ready to start saving. We've specially selected coupons for our customers to help you make the most of your benefit!

Quantities are limited. Products listed are subject to availability and manufacturers' policies. Read each digital coupon's details carefully for specific limitations and terms when "clipping" your coupons.

Save $2 on any ONE (1) Tylenol® Cold product or Sudafed® product. Expires: 3/16/21

SAVE SAVE

$2$20000

Save $150 on any ONE (1) Folgers® K-Cup® pod coffee product. Expires: 4/30/21

SAVE SAVE

$1$15050

Save $150 on any ONE (1) 1850® Coffee Product (excluding ready to drink coffee). Expires: 5/12/21

SAVE SAVE

$1$15050

Save $1 on any ONE (1) Folgers® Can Coffee Product (excluding K-Cup® pods and Instant). Expires: 4/30/21

SAVE SAVE

$1$10000

Save $1 on any ONE (1) Ban® product. Expires: 3/28/21

SAVE SAVE

$1$10000

Save $2 off any ONE (1) package of Huggies® Diapers (Not valid on 9 ct. or less). Expires: 4/7/21

SAVE SAVE

$2$20000

Page 3: VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14 Your Super Savings Page!

Page 3

Planters® Lightly Salted Cocktail Peanuts 16 oz. SAVE 26%

VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14

DISCLAIMER: PICTURES ARE FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY. THE PRODUCTS INCLUDED IN THIS SALE MAY BE DIFFERENT FROM THOSE PICTURED. SOME ITEMS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE AT ALL LOCATIONS. EFFECTIVE FOR CONUS STORES ONLY.

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Our Dietitian Approve Thumb (DAT) labels help you quickly find items that improve the nutritional quality of your diet and align with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Our labels take the guesswork out of Nutrition Facts and send you on your way with a healthier eating plan. Spend less time in the aisles and more time focusing on your health. You have a “ diet i t ian alongside you” at Your Commissary!

All above items are Dietitian Approved!Approximately 10% of all store items are Dietitian Approved. Look for them at your commissary!

Pompeian® Robust Extra Virgin Olive Oil 68 fl. oz.

SAVE 18%

Minute® Whole Grain Brown Rice 14 oz.

SAVE 20%

Skinny Pop® Popcorn 4.4 oz.

SAVE 21%

Coleson's Catch® Ahi Tuna Steaks12 oz.

SAVE 20%Freedom's ChoiceTM Diet Cranberry Juice

Cocktail 64 fl. oz.

Page 4: VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14 Your Super Savings Page!

Page 4

VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14

DISCLAIMER: PICTURES ARE FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY. THE PRODUCTS INCLUDED IN THIS SALE MAY BE DIFFERENT FROM THOSE PICTURED. SOME ITEMS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE AT ALL LOCATIONS. EFFECTIVE FOR CONUS STORES ONLY.

your

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Campbell's® 18.6 oz. Select Varieties

Home Style® SoupSAVE 21%

SAVE 21%

Campbell's® 15.25 oz. Select Varieties Chunky® Soup

Planters® 10.3 oz. Select Varieties

Mixed Nuts SAVE 24%

Planters® 8 oz. Select Varieties Cashews

Halves & Pieces SAVE 20%

Planters® Cocktail Peanuts 16 oz.

SAVE 25%

Planter's® 16 oz. Salted or Unsalted

Dry Roasted Peanuts

SAVE 25%

Kellogg's® Frosted Mini Wheats® 18 oz.

SAVE 30%Kellogg's® Rice

Krispies® Cereal 12 oz.

SAVE 30%

Nature Valley® 6 ct. Select Varieties Chewy

Granola BarsSAVE 27%

Nature Valley® 12 ct. Select Varieties Crunchy

Granola BarsSAVE 27%

Nature Valley® 5 ct. Select Varieties Peanut Butter Biscuit PouchesSAVE 31%

Kellogg's® 12 ct. Blueberry or Strawberry Pastry Crisps

SAVE 20%

Page 5: VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14 Your Super Savings Page!

Page 5

VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14

DISCLAIMER: PICTURES ARE FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY. THE PRODUCTS INCLUDED IN THIS SALE MAY BE DIFFERENT FROM THOSE PICTURED. SOME ITEMS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE AT ALL LOCATIONS. EFFECTIVE FOR CONUS STORES ONLY.

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Keebler® Vienna Fingers® Cookies 14.2 oz.

SAVE 27%

Kellogg's® 10 ct. Select Varieties Fruit Flavored

Snack PouchesSAVE 30%

Lifesavers® 14.5 oz. Select Varieties Mint Candy

SAVE 20%

Nabisco® Nutter Butter®

Cookies 10.5 oz SAVE 27%

Nabisco® Classic Mix Cookie Packs 20 ct.

SAVE 21%

Snackwells® Devil's Food Cookie Cakes 6.75 oz. SAVE 22%

Skittles® 15 oz. Select Varieties Candy

SAVE 20%

Starburst® 15 oz. Select Varieties Fruit Chews

SAVE 20%

Chex MixTM 10.5 oz. Select Varieties

Muddy BuddiesTM

SAVE 31%

Chex MixTM 15 oz. Select Varieties Family

Size Snack Mix

SAVE 29%

Gardetto'sTM 8 - 8.6 oz. Select Varieties Snack Chips

SAVE 39%Nabisco® Party Size

Ritz® Crackers 27.4 oz.SAVE 20%

Page 6: VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14 Your Super Savings Page!

VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14

Page 6

DISCLAIMER: PICTURES ARE FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY. THE PRODUCTS INCLUDED IN THIS SALE MAY BE DIFFERENT FROM THOSE PICTURED. SOME ITEMS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE AT ALL LOCATIONS. EFFECTIVE FOR CONUS STORES ONLY.

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• • • • • • • • MEAT POWER BOXES • • • • • • • •

Page 7: VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14 Your Super Savings Page!

VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14

Page 7

DISCLAIMER: PICTURES ARE FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY. THE PRODUCTS INCLUDED IN THIS SALE MAY BE DIFFERENT FROM THOSE PICTURED. SOME ITEMS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE AT ALL LOCATIONS. EFFECTIVE FOR CONUS STORES ONLY.

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MP2

1145

Every morning can be

a GOOD morning!

While Supplies LastAll 12 Count K-Cup Varieties

TM

Page 8: VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14 Your Super Savings Page!

VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14

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SELECTION:

• Select asparagus with stalks that are bright green and uniform in color. The skin should be smooth, and the tips (can be purple) should be dry and compact.

• Avoid stalks having more than 15% of the stalk bottom that is dry, white and woody.• Stalks with a medium thickness are the best. Thin stalks can easily be overcooked and thick stalks are more

likely to be woody and tough.

FUN FACTS:

• There are three different kinds of asparagus: green, white, and purple.• Asparagus seeds need three years to sprout to be ready for harvesting. Once that’s finished, the same plants

can be cropped for about 15 to 20 years each spring.• Asparagus can grow as fast as one inch an hour!

STORAGE:

NUTRITION/HEALTH/WELLNESS:

• Asparagus is very nutrient-dense and has few calories. Five stalks, on average, total only 20 calories.• It is great for adding crunch and bulk to a salad. It can be eaten raw!• The type of fiber, inulin, found in asparagus promotes the growth of the healthy bacteria in the gut, helping to

maintain a clean and healthy colon.

• If stored properly, asparagus will keep for up to seven days. Do not wash asparagus until it is ready to be cooked.

• Store asparagus by wrapping the stems in a damp paper cloth. Place the bunch in a plastic bag and store it in the refrigerator vegetable drawer.

DISCLAIMER: PICTURES ARE FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY. THE PRODUCTS INCLUDED IN THIS SALE MAY BE DIFFERENT FROM THOSE PICTURED. SOME ITEMS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE AT ALL LOCATIONS. EFFECTIVE FOR CONUS STORES ONLY.

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Page 9: VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14 Your Super Savings Page!

VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14

Page 9

DISCLAIMER: PICTURES ARE FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY. THE PRODUCTS INCLUDED IN THIS SALE MAY BE DIFFERENT FROM THOSE PICTURED. SOME ITEMS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE AT ALL LOCATIONS. EFFECTIVE FOR CONUS STORES ONLY.

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Pillsbury® 6 ct. Select Varieties Toaster StrudelTM

SAVE 20%Kellogg's® 10 ct. SelectVarieties Eggo® Waffles

SAVE 21%

Bagel Bites® Three Cheese Family Size Pizza Snacks 18 ct.

SAVE 21%

Bagel Bites® Cheese & Pepperoni

Pizza Snacks 9 ct.

SAVE 21%

Oscar Mayer® 28 oz. Select Varieties Sub Kit

SAVE 25%

Pure Farmland® 16 oz. Select Varieties Plant

Based MeatballsSAVE 21%

Oscar Mayer® 16 oz. Beef Bologna or Cotto Salami

SAVE 31%Armour® Sliced Pepperoni 5 oz.

SAVE 20%

Totinos'® 50 ct. Select Varieties Pizza RollsTM

SAVE 34%Gorton's® Natural Catch®

Grilled Salmon 6.3 oz.

SAVE 28%

Hillshire Farm® 13.5 oz.Select Varieties Smoked

Beef Sausage SAVE 27% Lunchables® 3.2 oz.

Select Varieties Lunch Combinations

SAVE 25%

Page 10: VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14 Your Super Savings Page!

VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14

Source: Defense Commissary Agency

Strawberry and Asparagus Salad

Ingredients: 4 servings

• 2 cups baby spinach leaves

• 1 lb. asparagus

• 4 oz. walnut halves

• 1 lb. strawberries

• 2 tbsp. fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

• Juice from ½ lime

• 2 tbsp. olive oil

• 2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar

• ½ tsp. garlic powder

Directions:

1. Wash and dry the produce. Remove the hard end from each asparagus stalk (cutting about one inch from the end) and discard. Cut the remaining stalks into thirds. Place the cut asparagus in a microwave safe dish with 2 tbsp. of water. Cover and cook on high for 4 minutes.

2. While the asparagus is cooking, pour the spinach leaves in a large salad bowl. Add the walnuts and then the strawberries, which have had their tops removed then are cut in half. Add the zest of one whole lime to the salad mixture. Toss gently. Sprinkle with the chopped cilantro and toss again.

3. To prepare the salad dressing, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, lime juice, and garlic powder in a large bowl.

4. Drain the water from the asparagus then add the asparagus to the salad. Drizzle the salad dressing over the mixture and toss gently. Serve immediately.

Tips:

Add 3-4 oz. of diced, cooked chicken to this salad and serve it alongside a slice of whole wheat avocado toast to make it a whole meal.

Page 10

DISCLAIMER: PICTURES ARE FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY. THE PRODUCTS INCLUDED IN THIS SALE MAY BE DIFFERENT FROM THOSE PICTURED. SOME ITEMS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE AT ALL LOCATIONS. EFFECTIVE FOR CONUS STORES ONLY.

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Page 11: VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14 Your Super Savings Page!

VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14

Page 11

Schick® Hydro Skin Comfort Cartridges 4 ct.

SAVE 44%

Schick® Quattro for Women®

Cartridges 6 ct.

SAVE 35%

Snuggle® Blue Sparkle® Dryer Sheets 40 ct.

SAVE 35%

Right Guard® 2.6 oz. Arctic Fresh® or Pure

Cool® Deodorant

SAVE 27%Hill'sTM Science DietTM Sensitive Stomach & Skin Adult Dog Food 15.5 lb.

SAVE 40%

Kleenex® Trusted Care® Facial Tissues 144 ct.

SAVE 21%

Fresh Step® Multi-Cat Clumping Cat Litter 25 lb.

SAVE 23%

Dial® 8 ct. Select Varieties Antibacterial Deodorant Soap Bars

SAVE 20%

All® Clean & Care® Liquid Detergent with

Fabric Smooth® 88 fl. oz.

SAVE 27%

All® Free Clear® 4 in 1 Mighty Pacs®

Detergent 39 ct.

SAVE 27%

Snuggle® Purple FusionTM Liquid Fabric

Softener 64 fl. oz.

SAVE 20%

Schick® Hydro 5® Sensitive Razor w/ 2 Cartridges

SAVE 45%

DISCLAIMER: PICTURES ARE FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY. THE PRODUCTS INCLUDED IN THIS SALE MAY BE DIFFERENT FROM THOSE PICTURED. SOME ITEMS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE AT ALL LOCATIONS. EFFECTIVE FOR CONUS STORES ONLY.

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Page 12: VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14 Your Super Savings Page!

VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14

Ingredients: 4 servings

• 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast

• 4-oz. Swiss cheese, shredded

• 16 asparagus stalks

• Salt (optional)

• 1 tsp. garlic powder

• 2 tsp. lemon pepper seasoning

• 2 tbsp. olive oil

Directions:

1. Wash the asparagus and cut off the hard end of each stalk (about 1 inch from the end). Discard the hard ends. If desired, lightly season the stalks with salt and set aside.

2. Cut the chicken breasts into a total of 12 nearly even sized strips.

3. Flatten the strips by placing 3-5 strips between two pieces of plastic wrap and then gently pound using the side of a canned product such as (canned green beans). Repeat until all 12 slices are flattened.

4. Place the strips in a large bowl and then add the garlic powder, lemon pepper seasoning, and olive oil. Toss gently to coat evenly.

5. Prepare the bundles by laying 4 strips of the flattened chicken in a row. Sprinkle each strip with a little cheese, then place a bundle of 4 asparagus stalks on top of the strips. Wrap the ends of each chicken strip around the asparagus bundle, then secure with a tooth pick.

6. Repeat step 4 until bundles are built.7. Place the bundles on a foil-lined baking tray and

begin baking in the oven for 12 minutes. After 12 minutes, turn the oven to broil and broil for an additional 1-2 minutes. Watch closely so the chicken doesn’t burn. The chicken is finished when the juices run clear and it has reached a temperature of 165 degrees. Remove from the oven and let the bundles rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Page 12

DISCLAIMER: PICTURES ARE FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY. THE PRODUCTS INCLUDED IN THIS SALE MAY BE DIFFERENT FROM THOSE PICTURED. SOME ITEMS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE AT ALL LOCATIONS. EFFECTIVE FOR CONUS STORES ONLY.

Chicken and Asparagus BundlesSource: Defense Commissary Agency

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Page 13: VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14 Your Super Savings Page!

Page 13

VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14

DISCLAIMER: PICTURES ARE FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY. THE PRODUCTS INCLUDED IN THIS SALE MAY BE DIFFERENT FROM DISCLAIMER: PICTURES ARE FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY. THE PRODUCTS INCLUDED IN THIS SALE MAY BE DIFFERENT FROM THOSE PICTURED. SOME ITEMS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE AT ALL LOCATIONS. EFFECTIVE FOR CONUS STORES ONLY.THOSE PICTURED. SOME ITEMS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE AT ALL LOCATIONS. EFFECTIVE FOR CONUS STORES ONLY.

Your Everyday Savings

LLowerower PPricesricesON THE ITEMS YOU LOVE

www.Commissaries.com

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Hello Sunshine!!TM

Page 14: VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14 Your Super Savings Page!

MahatmaTM Whole Grain Brown Rice 32 oz.

SAVE 20%

Page 14

DISCLAIMER: PICTURES ARE FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY. THE PRODUCTS INCLUDED IN THIS SALE MAY BE DIFFERENT FROM THOSE PICTURED. SOME ITEMS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE AT ALL LOCATIONS. EFFECTIVE FOR CONUS STORES ONLY.

“THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX” TAGS HELP IDENTIFY PRODUCTS USED IN THE MEAL SOLUTION.

VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14

Thinking Outside the Box!

Save a Healthy 20%

The "Thinking Outside the Box" meals offer quick solutions for your busy lifestyle. You can feel confident in knowing they are healthy and economical. You'll also see tips and suggestions on how to use the leftover items after preparing your meal. They feature a key nutrient and align with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and may even be a tastier and healthier version of a high-fat or high-calorie dish. Find the ingredients for the latest "Thinking Outside the Box" recipe, Fajita Bowl, at special savings at your commissary now!

Chicken Fajita Bowl!

Full CircleTM Organic Black Beans 15.5 oz.

SAVE 20%PictSweet Farms® 3 Color

Pepper & Onion Strips 16 oz.SAVE 20%

Del Monte® No Salt Whole Kernel Corn 15.25 oz.SAVE 20%

Page 15: VOL. 7 NO. 5 MARCH 1 - MARCH 14 Your Super Savings Page!

Page 15

DISCLAIMER:

THIS RECIPE DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN ENDORSEMENT BY DOD OF ANY INDIVIDUAL VENDOR. ANY PRODUCT OF SIMILAR SPECIFICATION MAY BE USED TO MAKE THIS HEALTHY CHOICE MEAL.

Ingredients: 8 servings

Directions:

FOR ADDITIONAL MEAL SOLUTIONS, PLEASE CLICK HERE COMMISSARIES.COM/HEALTHY-LIVING/HEALTHY-EATS

• 2 cups instant brown rice• 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast• 1 tbsp. paprika• 1 tsp. red pepper flakes• 1 tbsp. garlic

• 1 tbsp. olive oil• 1 lime• Sliced frozen peppers• 1 can black beans, drained• 1 can corn, drained

• 1 avocado• 1 lime• 1 cup nonfat Greek yogurt• Cilantro, chopped

1. Prepare the rice according to package directions.2. Combine the paprika, red pepper, garlic, olive oil, and

juice from half a lime into a marinade for the chicken. Evenly coat and let sit for at least five minutes.

3. Bring the frying pan to medium-heat and cook the peppers until tender.

4. Add the chicken and cook until no longer pink. Once it’s ready, slice the chicken into pieces.

5. Heat the corn and black beans in a separate stove top pot or in the microwave.

6. In a bowl put ⅛ of the rice, corn, and beans, then top with ⅛ of the chicken and peppers. Garnish with ⅛ of the avocado and some cilantro.

Notes:• Season with your favorite hot sauce.• For additional flavor, you can add some canned tomatoes

with green chilies.

The large majority of registered dietitians and other licensed health professionals advise Americans the best way to promote optimal health is to build a healthy eating pattern that can be maintained long-term. Restrictive eating patterns or fad diets being promoted by untrained professionals may result in the desired weight loss and or gains in muscle mass; however, if these diets can’t be maintained, oftentimes people return to their old eating habits. More often than not, once old habits return, so does the lost weight along with an increase in body fat. When this happens, many will again go on a restrictive diet. Experts agree, this cycle is truly not the best habit for optimal health and may even result in causing poor health.

Another concerning diet trend is aiming for perfect eating or eating only clean foods. Placing a value on your worth if you eat perfectly, or demonizing foods as good or bad or clean vs. unclean, can lead to an unhealthy relationship with food.

Building a healthy eating pattern means more than eating optimally to nourish one’s body. A healthy eating pattern should also nourish your mind and spirit. This means that the very act of eating any food shouldn’t cause negative feelings, and the eating pattern doesn’t cause an extreme burden and stress. The fact is, a healthy eating pattern doesn’t mean eating perfectly all the time. It’s about adopting overall healthy habits that are easy to maintain and can be done most of the time. If you can’t maintain a diet, the benefits to your health are short lived. It is better to aim for the cumulative lifelong benefits of an eating pattern that is healthy rather than short lived perfection. To get you started on adopting a maintainable eating pattern for the long haul, aim to practice these suggestions most of the time:

• Fill ½ your plate with fruits and vegetables, ¼ lean protein, ¼ grains (with most choices being whole grains)• Cook and prepare most of your meals at home and eat mindfully (limit distractions and make it a point to enjoy meals and snacks).• Aim to sit at the dinner table with the TV off and don’t eat at your desk while working.• When eating out, practice portion control and know that it is okay to only eat half and take home or share the rest.• Consume indulgences mindfully and limit the amount to just one serving.• Water is best. Don’t drink your calories. Limit sugar sweetened beverages. Choose non-fat dairy products.• Most of the time, select products that are made up of mostly ingredients that you know. Aim for products with the fewest ingredients.• Keep fresh vegetables and fruit at-the-ready and visible for a quick, nutritious, and low-calorie snack.

Add this meal to your healthy eating pattern. It can even be prepped on Sunday and used for your office lunches. Try it for dinner and your family will ask you to make it again.

Thinking Outside the Box!

Chicken Fajita Bowl