Celebrating National Peanut Butter Lovers Month: Creative Ways to Enjoy

I recently discovered that November is National Peanut Butter Lover’s Month, and as a devoted fan myself, I couldn’t be more excited to celebrate! In today’s post, I’ll explore some of the health benefits of peanut butter and share some of my favorite ways to enjoy it.

Health benefits

Peanut butter is a fantastic source of protein, fiber, and heart-healthy fats, making it a satisfying choice for meals and snacks. The majority of the fats in peanut butter are monounsaturated, which may contribute to lower cholesterol levels. Additionally, it’s an excellent low-carb option for those with diabetes, helping to prevent blood sugar spikes. However, like other nut butters, it is calorie-dense, so it's important to be mindful of portion sizes.

Savory recipes

Peanut butter it often associated with sweet snacks and desserts, but it can also be used in several savory dishes. Here are some of my favorite ways to incorporate peanut butter into savory meals:

• Add it to soups or curries

• Make peanut sauce and serve with salad rolls or chicken

• Make a cold noodle salad

• Make a veggie and chicken dish in the Instant Pot

Sweet recipes

There are plenty of ways to enjoy peanut butter in your favorite sweet recipes without sacrificing health. Here are a few of my go-to healthy yet delicious ways to enjoy peanut butter:

• PB&J yogurt - stir unsweetened peanut butter and fresh fruit into plain yogurt for a creamy, satisfying snack

• Baked oatmeal - swirl peanut butter into your baked oatmeal and pair it with apples or berries for a comforting, wholesome treat

• Smoothies - with the right ingredients, smoothies can be as tasty as milkshakes; blend peanut butter with berries, bananas, and/or cocoa powder for a sweet but nutritious drink

• Energy balls - combine peanut butter with bananas or dates for a bite-sized snack

• Breakfast cookies - bake up a batch of peanut butter breakfast cookies for a sweet and filling start to your day

And of course, there are plenty of more indulgent ways to enjoy peanut butter as well. Some of my favorite recipes include:

• No-bake peanut butter cup bars

• Teff peanut butter cookies

• Peanut butter muffins with dark chocolate chips

• Flourless peanut butter cookies

As you can see, there are so many ways to include peanut butter in savory and sweet recipes. Peanut butter contains heart-healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making it a filling option for meals and snacks. So next time you're looking to add a little extra flavor and nutrition to your recipes, don’t hesitate to reach for peanut butter; it's a pantry staple that can satisfy both your taste buds and your body’s nutritional needs.