Have A Healthy Valentines

For all those who are on strict diet but still wants to enjoy chocolates on Valentines day there are healthy alternatives available that won't necessarily add to calories.

Here is one chocolate preparation that is healthy and would add to the sweetness of valentines day.

Hot Chocolate Fondue

The chocolate will stiffen if it gets cold, so enjoy it while it’s still warm. Skewer and dip anything you like—pear slices, dried apricots, even marshmallows. Equipment: Fondue forks or bamboo skewers

3 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1 tablespoon brewed espresso (see Kitchen Tip)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
1 banana, peeled and cut into 8 pieces
8 1-inch chunks fresh pineapple
4 strawberries

1. Place chocolate, cream, espresso, vanilla and salt in a medium microwave-safe bowl; microwave on Medium, stirring every 20 seconds, until melted, 1 to 2 minutes. (Alternatively, see “No Microwave?” below.)
2. Pour the chocolate mixture into a serving bowl. Serve with fruit.

Makes 2 servings.

NUTRITION INFORMATION: Per serving: 345 calories; 19 g fat (10 g sat, 2 g mono); 20 mg cholesterol; 54 g carbohydrate; 4 g protein; 7 g fiber; 81 mg sodium; 382 mg potassium. Nutrition bonus: Vitamin C (90% daily value).

Kitchen Tip: If you don’t have an espresso maker, look for instant espresso powder at your supermarket.

No Microwave? Place chopped chocolate in the top of a double boiler over hot, but not boiling water. Gently stir until almost melted. Remove from the heat and stir until the chocolate melts completely.