Health and ease in one

Preparing a variety of healthy foods just got easier

Even with a busy schedule, many of us strive to eat healthy meals at home and on the go rather than hitting the drive-thru. Here are four kitchen gadgets that can help simplify preparing healthy food.

Instant Pot

Available from several manufacturers, an instant pot is a multipurpose cooker perfect for a variety of healthy recipes. It does the job of a slow cooker, electric pressure cooker, rice cooker, steamer, yogurt maker, sauté/browning pan and warming pot. The other key feature of this all-in-one pot is that it can cook meals in a fraction of the time, up to 70 percent faster. Recipe to try: Thai red curry chicken

Food Hydrator

Not your everyday kitchen appliance, a dehydrator is perfect for preparing healthy on-the-go meals and snacks in advance. The dehydrator’s low heat removes the water from the food but preserves all the nutrients. Dehydrate fruits, vegetables, nuts, meat for jerky, fruit puree for fruit roll-ups and even raise bread. Recipe to try: Veggie chips

High-Performance Blender

A high-performance blender will make preparing healthy dishes a breeze. With a high-powered motor and variable blending speeds, it’s easy to make a long-list of good-for-you recipes, such as smoothies, juices, nut butters, dough, baby food, dips, salad dressings, soups and more. It will quickly become a staple in the kitchen. Recipe to try: Spicy hummus

Air Fryer

Love fried food? An air fryer makes it possible to prepare healthier versions of your favorite fried fare without sacrificing the taste and texture. Rapid air-circulation technology is key because it replaces the large amount of oil usually used in frying. Plus, you can also bake, roast or grill meals and snacks, in addition to frying. Recipe to try: Turkey sliders