Hi Donna,
I know exactly what you mean. Even as much as I love my Fruits and Vegetables, it's hard to eat what I am supposed to have each day. I have found at least a partial solution however. I include low-sodium V8 100% Vegetable Juice and/or V8 V-Fusion in my diet every day.
Most V8 100% Vegetable Juices contain only 50 calories, are naturally fat-free, and have 1/2 the carbs of orange juice, 10 grams per 8 oz glass, as opposed to 25 grams per 8 oz glass of OJ. Every 8-ounce glass also provides (2) 1/2 cup servings of vegetables, and a 12 oz glass provides (3) ½ cup servings. As you know, the Daily Suggested Recommendations are for at least 2 ½ cups of a variety of Vegetables for a 2,000 calorie diet, according to the USDA MyPyramid.
Speaking of all of those Fruits however, there is also a solution. V8 V-Fusion, contains the juice of from 6-10 vegetables and fruits in each 8 oz serving. In addition, V8 V-Fusion is naturally low in sodium, and also contains NO added sugar and NO high fructose corn syrup. Speaking from personal experience, it's delicious. Personally, I love the Peach Mango and the Pomegranate Blueberry.
I love V8 Juice so much that I even use it in Recipes quite often. Here's one you might like to try...
Italian-Style Rice & Vegetables
Ingredients:
1 tbsp. vegetable oil
1 cup uncooked regular long-grain white rice
4 cups V8® 100% Vegetable Juice (Regular or Low Sodium)
1 tsp. dried basil leaves, crushed
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
Directions:
Heat the oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat. Add the rice and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
Stir the vegetable juice, basil and garlic powder in the skillet and heat to a boil. Reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 15 minutes.
Stir in the vegetables. Cover and cook for 10 minutes or until the rice and vegetables are tender.
Tip: This recipe is delicious as a side dish or wrapped with chicken and cheese in a burrito.
Have A Terrific Weekend My Friend,
Phil