July 2008 Archives

The afternoon trip to Starbucks may mean another block's walk.  The chain is closing 600 stories nationwide.

But Starbucks also just launched a new line of healthier food products - Vivanno Nourishing Blends.   The most popular customer requests through "mystarbucksidea.com" have been healthier food options (and lower prices)...and the company is listening.

The new line includes "Orange Mango Banana" and "Banana Chocolate" flavored beverages provide "at least one serving of fruit, 16 grams of protein, and 5 grams of fiber with 270 calories or less and no artificial colors, artificial sweeteners or high fructose corn syrup (nutrition based on 16 fluid ounces)."   The ingredient list for both beverages includes: one whole banana, a proprietary whey protein and fiber powder, choice of milk and ice.

Here's a quick and easy summer side dish for lunch or dinner. Spinach Couscous with Pine Nuts. Ingredients include: 1 cup spinach couscous, 1 cup water, 1/4 tsp salt, 2 tsp olive oil, 1/4 cup pine nuts.  In saucepan bring water, salt and one tsp olive oil to a boil.  Add couscous, stirring quickly.  Remove from heat and cover.  Let stand for 4-5 minutes.  Fluff with a fork.  Bake pine nuts at 350 for 7-9 minutes, or until golden. Mix pine nuts with couscous, drizzle 1 tsp olive oil, add salt and pepper to taste and serve.  Nutritional content: 1/4 cup serving has 9 grams protein and 6 grams of fiber, plus iron.