Eat This: Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds

Have you ever heard of a fascinating food holiday called National Bittersweet Chocolate and Almonds Day? It highlights two nutritious pantry items: dark chocolate and almonds. These superfoods provide an abundance of health benefits and deliciousness, so why not celebrate?

Why You Should Celebrate Dark Chocolate by Eating It

Dark chocolate is an indulgent, luscious treat that many of us can’t resist. Thankfully, a rich layer of health-boosting nutrition envelops its decadence. Dark chocolate, especially those that contain a high cacao percentage, is a known source of antioxidants, including flavonoids and polyphenols.

Antioxidants play a significant role in helping neutralize free radicals, which act as toxins inside the human body. Here’s the best news of all: the level of antioxidants in dark chocolate is higher than most food and beverages, including blueberries and green tea. Plus, the flavonoids found in dark chocolate may promote brain function and prevent cancer development.

Reasons to Celebrate Almonds

Almonds are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, fiber, vitamin E, and magnesium, making them a tasty and satisfying munchable. Specifically, because of their high protein content, almonds are also a staple in many vegetarian and vegan diets, evident in the prevalence of almond products such as almond milk.

Perfect Combination

Dark chocolate and almonds are delicious on their own but put them together and the taste is a thousand times better. Below are some of the best dark chocolate covered almonds you need to try.

• Godiva Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds. There is no big secret behind Godiva’s mouthwatering product as far as ingredients go. Velvety chocolate lacing crunchy almonds — absolutely divine.
• Nanga by Nature Organic Chocolate Covered Almonds. If all you want is a guilt-free, clean, minimal ingredient option that uses organic and high-quality ingredients, Nanga by Nature Organic Chocolate Covered Almonds is the best way to go.
• Trader Joe’s Sea Salt and Turbinado Sugar Dark Chocolate Almonds. These are a crowd favorite in the United States. Some people report driving miles to the nearest Trader Joe’s to hoard as many of this sweet and salty goodness as they can. Just a few of these can curb any sweet tooth.

As a precaution, always remember to practice portion control. Too much dark chocolate can still cause rapid weight gain, obesity, and a plethora of health problems.

“What If I Don’t Want to Eat Candy?” (Gasp)

If you are not the biggest fan of candy, but still want to pay homage to this unique food holiday, there are plenty of alternatives for you to make at home. For example, you can add a dollop of your favorite chocolate almond butter on top of a bowl of chia pudding or oatmeal (made with almond milk, of course). Another option is to slather a tablespoon of plain almond butter on a piece of toast and then top it with cacao nibs for an added dash of yumminess, as well as antioxidants and good fats.

National Bittersweet Chocolate and Almonds Day may not be as relevant as most holidays, but it is worth celebrating. Try any of these suggestions to make your Novembers extra sweet and special.