Unprocessed Foods: A Simple Path to Better Health
At Bento, we believe that good health starts with good food. Minimally processed foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean meats, whole grains, and legumes, are packed with essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Unlike highly processed foods, which often lose much of their nutritional value during production, unprocessed foods retain their full array of nutrients, providing the body with what it needs to function optimally.
Why Unprocessed Foods Matter for Health
Our medically tailored grocery deliveries are designed to help individuals and families manage chronic health conditions through nutrition. Here’s how minimally processed foods make a difference:
🥦 Heart Health: Leafy greens, whole grains, and nuts are rich in fiber and antioxidants, helping to reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular function.
🍎 Diabetes Management: Fiber-rich real foods like beans, lentils, and whole grains slow sugar absorption, helping to stabilize blood sugar levels.
🥑 Digestive Wellness: A diet full of fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports gut health, reducing issues like bloating and constipation.
🍠 Weight & Energy Balance: Unprocessed foods keep you full longer, reducing cravings for processed snacks and helping maintain a healthy weight.
🌿 Immune Support: Nutrient-dense foods like citrus fruits, garlic, and leafy greens boost the immune system, helping the body fight illness.
Incorporating unprocessed foods into your family's diet doesn't have to be complicated. Bento makes it easier by offering a variety of orders filled with fresh, nutritious options for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're looking to try new flavors or streamline your weekly meals, Bento’s carefully curated selections bring great options directly to your table. Don't miss out on the chance to explore your orders and elevate your family's health and dining experience—schedule your next order here today.
Incorporating unprocessed, wholesome ingredients into your meals is easy with these two delicious Mediterranean-inspired recipes:
Mediterranean Chicken Salad with Simple Dressing
Ingredients:
2 cups mixed greens
1 baked chicken breast, sliced (see recipe below)
¼ cup chopped red onion
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
½ cup chopped cucumber
¼ cup green olives, sliced
For the Simple Dressing:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice or red wine vinegar
½ tsp dried oregano
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a large bowl, toss the mixed greens, red onion, cucumber, and green olives.
Add the sliced baked chicken on top.
Sprinkle with feta cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice (or red wine vinegar), oregano, salt, and pepper.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition: 280 kcals | 22 g Total Fat | 5 g Sat Fat | 55 mg Cholesterol | 440 mg Sodium | 6 g Carbohydrate | 1 g Fiber | 17 g Protein
Oven-Baked Italian Herb Chicken Breast
Ingredients:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme, or a mix)
½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel.
Season: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
Bake: Place the chicken breasts on a lined baking sheet or in a baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Rest: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
Serve: Slice and add to salad
Nutrition: 310 kcals | 18 g Total Fat | 3 g Sat Fat | 95 mg Cholesterol | 380 mg Sodium | 1 g Carbohydrate | 1 g Fiber | 35 g Protein
(Please consult your primary care physician to ensure the recipes and ideas are appropriate for your condition.)
Erin Elise is a Board-Certified Health Coach and Nutritionist on Bento’s Nutrition Team. She strives to make nutritious eating both accessible and enjoyable for all. Growing up in a state park in Washington state sparked her deep love for the outdoors, which continues today. When not working, you can find her hiking scenic trails, swimming in one of Minnesota’s many lakes, or cooking up something delicious—especially a flavorful bowl of tikka masala.
