Veggie Tray & Low-Fat Ranch Dressing

I was talking to a friend the other day and she wanted to know how she could get more vegetables in her day.  She felt like she wasn't eating enough and didn't know what to do, so I offered her this tip and she had an "ah-ha" moment.  It was pretty funny because it is so simple, but it really helps!

Tip:  Put a beautiful veggie tray out before you eat lunch or dinner! 

You and your family will enjoy the benefits of the vegetables without the kids loading up on junk food before dinner.  If you have any kids at home, you understand the pre-dinner munchies.  The kids are always at our feet begging for food because they're starving!  It's the perfect time to have veggies out because they'll eat almost anything when they're hungry right?  And for yourself, it's perfect because you can get in some extra nutrition and you won't eat too much at dinner!

I don't care if you buy it pre-made or make it yourself, you're one step closer to having a healthier diet!  It's definitely cheaper making them yourself and you can have a little more variation too, so if you have time some weeks, try it out!  I think it's therapeutic to chop vegetables, so try it out and see how you feel!

If you would like an easy homemade ranch dressing, here you go:

Low Fat Ranch Dressing
1 1/2 c. buttermilk
1/2 c. reduced fat mayonnaise or veganaise
1/2 t. garlic powder
1/2 t. onion powder
1/4 t. black pepper
1 t. salt
1 t. sugar
1 1/2 t. dried parsley
4 t. Ultra Gel (found at most health food stores)

Combine all ingredients until smooth.  Refrigerate for 30 minutes to thicken and blend flavors.  Store leftovers in covered container in a refrigerator for up to two weeks.  Makes 2 1/4 c.