A Happier New Year – Wine and Healthy Foods

We mark the first day of the New Year with celebrations and resolutions. Ultimately these goals boil down to one thing: we all just want to be happy and healthy. Let’s celebrate our minds and bodies through conscious choices all year long. Fortunately, good food and wine can boost the body and mind. Living a happy and healthy life is just a matter of providing ourselves with simple, delicious ingredients.

Treating our bodies like royalty is as simple and indulgent as enjoying a glass of vino. Wine is full of amazing antioxidants, and with moderate consumption, studies have shown it can have positive effects on the body. Red wine in particular has been said to lower the risk of heart disease, reduce the risk of developing certain cancers, maintain the immune system, and reduce levels of stress.

Wine and healthy food pairings accomplish the duel purpose of ushering in a happy and healthy new year. If you’re searching for healthy and hearty recipes, look no further than Cookie+Kate. In particular, her recipe for Basil Pesto Party Almonds is perfect for those parties you’ll be hosting in 2016. But for many of us, adopting a healthier lifestyle should be as easy as possible. We’ve suggested some foods you can easily prepare and snacks containing ingredients that are already in your fridge, along with a few Whitehall Lane wines to enjoy them with.

Fresh Fruit and Belmuscato

You can never go wrong with a bowl of fresh fruit whether it’s for lunch, dessert or as a snack. Nutrient-rich strawberries are packed with antioxidants like Vitamin C, which boosts the immune system. They also fight bad cholesterol and contain 2 grams of fiber per serving, making them a great addition to any healthy diet. Enjoy them with a glass of Whitehall Lane Belmuscato as an after-dinner treat.

Avocado slices and almonds with Carneros Chardonnay

Avocados have a ton of potassium, more than bananas. They also contain oleic acid, a healthy fat that has been attributed to reducing hunger and lowering bad cholesterol levels. Almonds are incredibly versatile for sweet or savory dishes, and contain nine key healthy vitamins and minerals, including manganese and copper, which can raise your energy levels. Together, in a salad or on top of whole-wheat crackers, these two ingredients make for perfect party snacks alongside our Carneros Chardonnay.

Grilled salmon and Las Brisas Vineyard Pinot Noir

A delicious piece of grilled salmon is not only filling, but it can also contribute to making a smarter, happier you. Omgega-3 fatty acid has been linked to brain development and cardiovascular health. Enjoy on a bed of greens for an easy lunch or serve with your favorite whole grains at dinnertime. Don’t forget to add a glass of Whitehall Lane Pinot Noir.

Black cherries and Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Having a handful of cherries before bedtime can raise melatonin levels for a restful night of sleep.  Cherries are also said to have anti-inflammatory compounds that can reduce muscle pain and arthritis symptoms. For a sweet and savory meal, include them in a sauce over roasted chicken and pair with our Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.