World Milk Day 2023: 5 delicious ways to add milk and dairy products to your diet

Milk is an essential part of our daily diet and is a storehouse of many important nutrients. Drinking a glass of milk every day not only provides you with the right amount of calcium, but also other vital nutrients such as protein, phosphorus, potassium, iodine, riboflavin and pantothenic acid. Milk also helps meet the daily requirement of vitamin B12, especially for vegetarians. Milk also aids in brain development, maintaining healthy blood pressure, supporting healthy immune function, and keeping muscles, bones, and teeth strong. World Milk Day is celebrated every year on June 1st. The day was created in the year 2001 by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations to promote the benefits of dairy products to people all over the world. (Also Read: Is It Safe For People With Diabetes To Drink Milk? Expert Answers)

“Milk, known for its rich nutrient content, is a valuable addition to one’s diet. Rich in essential nutrients such as calcium, protein, vitamins and minerals, it contributes to strong bones, healthy muscles and improved immune function. By incorporating milk and milk products in your diet can ensure a healthy and nutritious meal,” says Bangalore-based nutritionist Anupama Menon in an interview with HT Digital.

Tasty ways to add milk to your diet

From creamy smoothies to comforting paneer recipes, there are many ways to enjoy these dairy delights. Menon shares a list of delicious foods that can be made with milk or dairy products.

1. Smoothie

A smoothie is a delicious blended drink that combines the goodness of yogurt, fresh fruit, and the added richness of almonds or peanut butter. It’s a fantastic option to start the day in a nutritious and tasty way.

2. Milk

Indulge in a relaxing late night latte to improve your sleep by boiling a glass of organic milk with a blend of aromatic ingredients. Start by adding 3-4 strands of saffron, sprinkle a teaspoon of cinnamon, add a teaspoon of haldi (turmeric) and a pinch of pepper. Let the milk simmer gently, infusing it with the delicious flavors and beneficial properties of these ingredients. And voila!

3. Soaked/overnight oats

Create a nutritious breakfast option by making soaked oats or overnight oats. Simply soak 2-3 tablespoons of oats with a cup of yogurt, 3-4 teaspoons of berries, a cup of your favorite fruit, 4-5 roasted nuts and 2 teaspoons of dark chocolate chips in a jar overnight in refrigerator. The next morning you will have a delicious and healthy meal ready to enjoy.

4. Stir-fried vegetables with tomato basil soup

For a light and delicious dinner, try stir-fried vegetables accompanied by about 40 g of natural grated cheese. Start by sauteing an assortment of fresh vegetables until tender and vibrant. Then sprinkle about 40 g of grated natural cheese, allowing it to melt and create a creamy and tasty coating. To round out the meal, serve the stir-fried vegetables alongside a comforting tomato-basil soup.

5. Breadcrumbs

Indulge in a protein-rich and flavorful evening snack by layering seasoned and spiced grated paneer on slices of vegetables such as tomato, lettuce or eggplant. Start by grating the paneer and seasoning it with the spices of your choice. Next, assemble the grated paneer as a filling, laying it generously on slices of fresh vegetables such as tomato, lettuce or aubergine. Bake this delicious set until the paneer is golden brown and the vegetables are tender.