Tasty. Easy. Healthy.

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Nutritional yeast is a favorite pantry staple of mine. If you haven’t worked with it in the kitchen before, I highly recommend that you go out and get some. It is packed with health benefits and can quickly add a unique flavor to dishes while instantly adding protein, B vitamins, fiber and probiotics.

You can find nutritional yeast at health food stores as well as regular grocery stores. In Houston, Kroger carried it in bulk as well as any Whole Foods I have shopped in across the country. The best pricing I have found is buying it in bulk.

I use the large flaky yellow kind of nutritional yeast. I have seen it a darker brown color that has a texture almost like little pebbles. I do not recommend this version — it does not taste good.

The great thing about this item (it’s not really a spice so I don’t know what to call it other than “delicious and healthy goodness”), is that by adding a tablespoon or two to a batch of dressing or soup or a couple teaspoons to your scrambled eggs or sprinkled on a piece of whole grain toast you will add this unique kind of nutty/rich flavor while completely elevating the nutritional value of your meal.

I also mix nutritional yeast into the coating for my nutritious nugget recipe, which is one of the easiest, healthiest chicken dishes you can make for your kids (and yourself). The recipe is on Mom-a-licious.

Another favorite way to enjoy this yeast is sprinkled on popcorn. It is much better for you than adding extra salt or butter. My daughter has always loved this. I also love it when making vegetables such as broccoli, beans or baked potatoes. It naturally has an almost buttery flavor without all the calories or guilt.

Next time you are at the store, look for nutritional yeast and get it going as part of your regular “spice” mix.

Until next time, stay fresh and delicious!

~ Chef Domenica