5 healthy ways to eat coconut

Coconuts are all the rage – and for good reason. Here are some healthy and creative ways to cook with them

5 healthy ways to eat coconut

Source: Best Health magazine; March/April 2014; Image: Thinkstock

Yummy tropical smoothie: In a blender, combine coconut milk with orange-mango juice, a banana and a handful of ice. To make it a satisfying breakfast drink, add a scoop of protein powder.

Put the lime in the coconut rice: Cook basmati rice in a combination of vegetable broth and coconut milk. Stir in a little coconut oil and fresh lime juice before serving.

Have a favourite granola recipe? Next time, substitute the oil for coconut oil, and add large-flaked coconut before baking. As with any homemade granola, watch it carefully and stir often so that it doesn’t burn.

Exotic salad: Julienne some fresh mango, red pep- per and spring onions, and mix with a finely sliced chili, a little grated ginger and chopped basil. Top salad with a dressing of fresh lime juice, coconut oil, salt and pepper.

Creole coconut chicken: Rub the chicken breasts in cajun spices; bake. To serve, top with a sauce of puréed warmed pine- apple, and sprin- kle with coconut shavings.

This article originally appeared in the March/April 2014 issue of Best Health. Subscribe today to get the full Best Health experience’and never miss an issue!