11 Perfect Food Pairings Unveiled

 

Probably without realizing it, you're already familiar with a few nutrient-rich food combinations. Bazilian claims that classic food pairings -- like rice and beans -- which make up a complete -protein, have been around since centuries. Many of the best combinations for enhancing nutrition are things we have been eating all along. Modern science has also discovered the nutritional benefits of many other food combinations. The top 11:

1. Salsa y Guacamole

Bazilian says that the healthy fats found in guacamole increase the absorption rate of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant in tomatoes. You can create a delicious spread by using one of the must try guacamole recipe or this easy five-minute salsa.

2. Tomato Sauce and Olive Oil

The quintessential Italian food ingredients! Bazilian says that they don't only taste great together, but also pack a powerful punch of vitamins and minerals. The fats in the olive oil also enhance the absorption from tomatoes of the lycopene. This recipe for Spaghetti Squash Lasagna boats offers two delicious flavors as well as health benefits.

3. Red Bell Peppers with Black Beans

The combination of black bean and vitamin C-rich, red bell pepper helps the body absorb iron from the beans. This is good news because iron is essential for building strength and maintaining energy levels. This recipe is for Black Bean Salad With Corn, Red Peppers And Avocado.

4. Peanut Butter Jelly

It's a pairing that will last from birth to death. You can enjoy the combination of sweet grape jelly and salty peanut butter as soon as you are able to chew. This sandwich, made with white bread and a blank canvas, is delicious for everyone. You should never believe anyone who tells you differently. Walk away quietly, then make yourself PB&J.

5. Steak and Eggs

When there are two different sources of protein, you know that it is a great pairing. The combination of a medium-rare steak with just the right amount of marbling and a perfectly fried yolk is a winning one. The combination is made even better with the addition a nice spicy sauce. Is there an even better breakfast? 

6. Chicken and waffles

Fried meat (and dough) with syrup. Maple syrup transforms two objects into angels. The chicken will be moist and flavorful under a crisp, flavorful shell. This is a great snack for 2 am, breakfast, lunch or dinner.

7. Chips and Salsa

We've established that salt is essential for flavor. It allows other flavors thrive. The salt on the corn tortilla chips brings out the zest of the salsa. This pairing is easy to eat anywhere and comes in a variety of flavors (chip type, salsa flavor, etc.).

8. Tomatoes + Olive Oil

It may seem like a natural pairing, but research has shown that this is the best method to reap the benefits of both. Tomatoes contain lycopene which is a powerful antioxidant and can help protect against cancer, heart disease, and other diseases. Olive oil can enhance the absorption of lycopene in tomatoes.

9. Turmeric + Black Pepper

Turmeric is a powerful antioxidant that can reduce pain and arthritis. It also helps to cleanse the blood. It works even better if you combine it with black pepper. According to studies, black Pepper makes the antioxidants found in turmeric more bioavailable. This means that your body is able to absorb and use more disease-fighting compounds.

10. Salmon + Leafy Greens

Salmon and kale is a great weeknight meal. (Or spinach, if that's what you prefer.) This simple combination is not only quick to prepare, but also packed with antioxidants. It's also a great source of calcium and vitamin D which both support bone health.

Salmon is a good source of vitamin D and leafy greens contain calcium. Vitamin D is often added to calcium-rich foods like milk. This happens because vitamin D triggers the chemical reactions that allow calcium absorption by the body.

11. Beans + Rice

The staple dish of beans and rice has been around for centuries in many cultures. This simple dish is more than just a cheap and easy meal.

When eaten together, rice and beans (or garbanzo beans) provide a complete source of protein. Rice is high in carbohydrates, but beans are rich in fiber that helps balance it out. You can avoid a spike in blood sugar by eating rice and beans.