Ginger's main claim to fame might be itsadorable namesake cookies—and don't get us wrong, they're delicious. But this versatile spice makes an appearance in plenty of other recipes, many of which fit nicely into any healthy eating plan. Pear Ginger Honey Muffins: Lightly sweetened only with raw, unfiltered honey, they make a great snack or a yummy make-ahead breakfast. Gingerbread Spice Roasted Almonds: Perfect for smart snacking, roasted almonds are coated an in a cozy mix of gingerbread spices. 20-Minute Ginger Garlic Chicken: The star of this simple recipe is Chef Meg's Easy Ginger-Garlic Sauce. Ginger Glazed Pork Loin with Roasted Asparagus and Arugula Salad: Topped with a ginger glaze, this delicious pork recipe imparts a freshness to enjoy all year round. Healthy Morning Glory Gingerbread: Only 144 calories and free of sugar and refined flour, it makes a healthy and tasty breakfast or snack. Vegan Chow Mein: Ginger adds a warm spice to the peanut or sesame oil in this Chinese-inspired vegan chow mein.
Derived from a flowering plant found in China, ginger has been linked to a bevy ofhealth benefits. It contains compounds and metabolites that have been used to help improve digestion, curb nausea, alleviate cold and flu symptoms, reduce muscle pain, fight inflammation and boost cardiovascular health. Plus, 100 grams of fresh ginger is chock-full of vitamins and minerals, contains no sugar and is low in calories.
When cooking with ginger, you can use a fresh ginger root that is peeled and grated or sliced, or purchase it in dried or ground form. Ground ginger is sold at the supermarket along with other herbs and spices.
Need some ginger-spiration? We've rounded up a few of our favorite recipes in which it plays a yummy role.
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Instant Pot Tom Yum: The broth in this Thai soup has lemongrass, ginger and coconut milk for an extra flavorful twist on chicken soup.
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Homemade Soy Ginger Dressing: This delicious, easy recipe goes great with salads, grain bowls, vegetables and chicken dishes.
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100-Calorie Carrot Ginger Muffins: Enjoy all the deliciousness of carrot cake, without the guilt.
Turmeric Ginger Smoothie Recipe: Zingy ginger and turmeric adds a hint of spiciness to this sweet, creamy and vibrant drink.
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Ginger Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Icing: Ginger is the main event in this delicious sheet cake with a sugar-free butter and cream cheese frosting.
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Ginger Glazed Mahi-Mahi: This flavorful seafood dish combines both sweet and sour taste sensations.
White Chocolate Ginger Cookies: This twist on a traditional favorite combines the flavor of ginger with the sweetness of white chocolate chips.
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Grapefruit Pomegranate Ginger Smoothie: This beautiful ombré grapefruit pomegranate and ginger smoothie has a delicious citrus flavor.
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Dump-and-Bake Chinese Pepper Steak: Ground ginger adds a warm spice to this healthy sheet pan dinner recipe.
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Easy Pasta Salad: With an addictive peanut butter dressing and a pinch of ginger, it's packed with fiber and protein.
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Gingerbread Protein Overnight Oats: Only five minutes of prep will get you a thick, creamy oatmeal with 16 grams of protein per serving.
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Asian Chicken Chopped Salad: This fresh and crunchy salad is loaded with veggies and tossed with an easy, homemade soy ginger dressing.
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Apple and Pork Stir-Fry with Ginger: Packed with fruits, veggies and protein for a hearty lunch or dinner.
Ginger Beef: Try serving this savory dish on a bed of whole-grain rice.
Cranberry Gingerbread Granola: With these warm spices and crunchy clusters, it’s hard to stop at just one bowl.
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Healthy Gingerbread Waffles: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, each is only 112 calories.
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Spicy Ginger Sweet Potato Soup: Ginger adds a bit of zing to this Instant Pot sweet potato soup, while a bit of coconut milk makes it extra creamy.
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Whole Wheat Gingerbread Cookie Bars: Soft, chewy and full of warm spices, they're perfect for holiday parties, bake sales and cookie exchanges.
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Chewy Molasses Ginger Cookies: At only 53 calories each, these soft cookies are sure to please.
