This article appeared in the Spring 2015 issue of Pulse Crop News.

Pulses such as chickpeas, lentils, field peas and beans feature prominently in the healthy eating recommendations made by the Dietitians of Canada for Nutrition Month in March 2015, which focuses on eating well at work with the theme of Eating 9 to 5!

“Pulses are a surprisingly nutritious and delicious source of protein and other nutrients that are easy to add into breakfast, lunch or snacks during the workday,” said Leanne Fischbuch, Executive Director of the Alberta Pulse Growers Commission (APG). “I am excited that the Dietitians of Canada chose to remind consumers about the versatility and excellent nutrition provided by pulses so that they can be eaten throughout the day, as well as part of a delicious, balanced evening meal.”

The Alberta Pulse Growers recipe for Five-Minute Hummus available on APG’s website is a simple dish that packs 8 g of protein and 4 g of fibre into a 75 ml serving. Hummus is a delicious spread for breads and wraps that pairs well with fillings like sliced apple or lettuce and tomato, or as a dip. Pre-packaged hummus is also available at grocery stores as a convenient alternative to making your own. Fischbuch recommends checking for brands with lower sodium and fat content. The APG hummus recipe can also be made using black beans or lentils instead of chickpeas.

The Green Split Pea Salad with Rice and Cranberries is also a colourful and delicious addition to a lunchbox or anytime. It has 6 g of protein and other nutrients to keep a body fuelled through the afternoon. The APG website offers this and many other recipes that feature pulses, which can also be a healthy part of vegetarian, gluten-free and diabetic diets.

“Pulses fit in perfectly with the Nutrition Month 2015 focus on Eating 9-5! by providing a quick, healthy, protein-packed solution to help us get through our work day,” said Registered Dietitian Debra McLennan. “Pulses are the perfect solution for adding variety to a salad, soup or sandwich for a delicious lunch or to power through the midday slump or commuter cravings that happen during our work day.”

To view the Dietitians of Canada fact sheet for Nutrition Month 2015, please visit http://www.dietitians.ca/Downloadable-Content/Public/Fact_ Sheet_3_NM_2015_ENG_COL.aspx.