May 7, 2022

Spoil the mom in your life this Mother’s Day with the brunch of her dreams! Hy-Vee dietitians are experts when it comes to designing a brunch that will not only impress the eyes, but also satisfy the taste buds while still keeping health a priority. While the entire menu does not need to be heathy, there are key components to look for on a brunch menu to ensure a balanced meal – and therefore balanced energy – for this holiday.

Set the occasion, and table, with colors that will appeal to the eyes. Set the table with a floral arrangement designed by our talented florists. Add vibrant color to water glasses by freezing fruits like berries and melon into ice cubes or simply add to water for an infusion that is sure to be a refreshing touch.

Incorporate fruits and vegetables into the menu wherever possible to add boosts of color and nutrition. Fruits and vegetables are high in fiber, which help stabilize blood sugars and promote digestive health. Including a fruit tray for an appetizer and a vegetable salad as a side dish are two great ways to ensure adequate fiber and color at the table.

Brunch is the perfect time to serve not one, but multiple main dishes. The main can be as traditional as turkey or ham or out-of-the-box like lasagna or a breakfast casserole. Whatever the choice, protein should be the superstar of each main dish. Protein helps provide a feeling of satiety and fullness at meals, making the entire experience satisfying. Protein can also be incorporated into appetizers like an assorted cheese plate or side dishes like deviled eggs or yogurt parfaits.

Finally, make a lasting impression with a selection of desserts. Dessert is also an optimal time to include fruit, whether it is paired with a decadent dip or covered in chocolate. A simple spread can include items from our Hy-Vee bakery as well as simple recipes like our dietitian’s choice Lemon-Berry Granola Tarts recipe.

Lemon-Berry Granola Tarts
Serves 12

All You Need:
1 (11-oz) bag Hy-Vee Oats & Honey Protein Granola
½ cup Hy-Vee sweetened shredded coconut, toasted
½ cup Hy-Vee honey, divided
¼ cup Hy-Vee salted butter, cut up
1 Hy-Vee large egg white
1 (8-z) pkg Hy-Vee cream cheese, softened
1 (6-oz) container Hy-Vee lemon low-fat yogurt
1 tsp lemon zest
2 tsp fresh lemon juice
Mixed Driscoll’s berries
Fresh mint, for garnish

All you do:

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Spray 12 (2½-inch) nonstick muffin cups with nonstick spray; set aside.
2. For crusts, place granola and coconut in a food processor. Cover; process until coarsely ground. Transfer to a bowl; set aside. Combine ¼ cup honey and butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on HIGH for 30 seconds or until melted; cool slightly. Whisk in egg white. Add to granola mixture; stir to combine.
3. Press 2 tablespoons granola mixture in bottoms and up sides of each prepared muffin cup. Bake for 14 to 16 minutes or until set. Cool completely in muffin cups.
4. For filling, beat cream cheese with an electric mixer for 30 seconds. Add yogurt, lemon zest and juice, and remaining ¼ cup honey; beat until smooth. Spoon mixture evenly into each cooled crust. Cover; chill. Top with berries and add mint garnish.

Recipe: www.hy-vee.com. Recipe link: https://www.hy-vee.com/recipes-ideas/recipes/lemon-berry-granola-tarts. Please consult a medical professional for individual advice.