Dairy + Plants: The New Power Couple

Dairy foods and plants make the ultimate nutritional power couple! Did you know that most Americans don’t get enough calcium, vitamin D, potassium and fiber in their diets? Milk is the leading food source of calcium, vitamin D and potassium, while plant foods provide fiber. Together, they are a perfect team to provide these nutrients of concern.

Research shows plant and dairy foods can also help reduce the risk for chronic diseases, however, 80% of Americans do not consume the recommended amount of dairy, and 85% do not consume adequate amounts of vegetables and fruit. Help close the nutrient gap by trying these nourishing recipes.

Better Breakfast

Start your day off right with a Berry Quinoa Breakfast Bowl, a hearty mix of quinoa cooked in milk, fresh berries and Greek yogurt, or try a protein-packed Peach Blueberry Smoothie Bowl, customized with your favorite toppings, like fresh fruit or nuts! What pairs better with vegetables and eggs than cheese? Use fresh spinach to whip up a Spinach and Cheese Frittata or steamed broccoli to prep some Broccoli Cheddar Cups; they’ll give you the energy you need to get through the day!

Berry Quinoa Breakfast Bowl

No-Cook Lunch

No cooking required to make these light and simple lunches, filled with fresh veggies and dairy foods! Smashed Chickpea Salad pairs veggies with creamy Greek yogurt dressing for a refreshing lunch — serve on whole grain toast or pita. For a new twist on traditional pasta salad, slice up some juicy cherry tomatoes to mix in Tomato Avocado Pasta Salad or combine with bell peppers, zucchini, black beans and corn to make Creamy Southwest Vegetarian Pasta Salad. Have leftover vegetables? Use them with low fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt to make a Cold Veggie Pizza.

Smashed Chickpea Salad

Satisfying Snacks

Make sure your snacks are nutritious too! Chill out with a Strawberry Pineapple Smoothie or mix up an Ombre Fruit & Yogurt Cup. Customize your own Cheese Plate or personalized Jarcuterie with your favorite cheeses, lean meats, fruits, nuts and other finger foods. Munch on chopped veggies, dipped in Roasted Red Pepper Greek Yogurt Hummus — it takes only five ingredients to make! Check out our Perfect Pairings for more seasonal snack suggestions.

Strawberry Pineapple Smoothie

Delightful Dinner

Customize a Mediterranean Buddha Bowl with veggies that you have on hand or bake some Mexican Quinoa Stuffed Peppers, topped with cheese and avocado cream sauce. Grill up some fresh veggies to use as toppings for a Cauliflower Pizza or some simple Bean & Rice Burritos that the whole family will love. For a comforting and cozy meal, try Creamy Red Lentil Butternut Squash Soup or Chipotle Sweet Potato Soup.

Mexican Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

Learn more about dairy’s health benefits or consult our printable perfect pairings cards for even more dairy and plant pairing ideas.

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