Sesame seeds are nutritious on their own or added to recipes.
Most seeds are smaller than nuts, but they are just as nutritious if not more so. Seeds are packed full of minerals, fiber and protein, which makes them a terrific snack choice. You can eat seeds raw or roasted, and you can add them to recipes to increase nutrients. An easy way to toast seeds is to place a handful into a dry pan. Turn the heat to medium low, and when you smell the oils cooking, the seeds are toasted. You do not need any added oil because the seeds themselves are full of oils that are released by the gentle heat.
Sunflower Seeds
Sunflower seeds are small, teardrop-shaped seeds. You can find them in most grocery stores, either shelled or unshelled. The shells are hard and black or gray. You should store them in an airtight container in your refrigerator, because the oils in the seeds can turn rancid quickly.
Sunflower seeds are a great source of magnesium, vitamin E and selenium, all of which the human body needs. Sunflower seeds are also high in phytosterols, natural chemicals that can help lower cholesterol levels.
Sesame Seeds
Sesame seeds are common in Asian foods and as a topping on hamburger buns. The small, oval-shaped seeds are a powerful combination of copper, magnesium, zinc and calcium. Sesame seeds can last for several months stored in an airtight container kept in a cool, dark location. Their oil resists rancidity well, and you can toast them or eat them raw.
Pumpkin Seeds
You can buy pumpkin seeds year-round, but they are most common in the fall when pumpkins are in season. The seeds are flat and range from pale to darker green and are an excellent source of magnesium, iron, copper and zinc. They are rich in protein and fiber as well. While you can eat pumpkin seeds raw, they are generally more tasty roasted. You can store them in an airtight container in your refrigerator.
Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds are a wonderful source of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. They are slightly larger than sesame seeds and much darker in color. Their shells are very hard, and the seeds are difficult to digest in their whole form. You can buy them ground or whole, and can grind whole flaxseeds yourself in a coffee or spice grinder. Once ground, you can sprinkle flaxseeds on everything from baked goods to beverages. Store them in an airtight container in a cool, dark location for best results.
Tags: airtight container, Sesame seeds, Sunflower seeds, them airtight, them airtight container, airtight container your, container your