UnitedHealthcare and BET have sponsored a healthy eating segment featuring Kron Moore from Tyler Perry's "The Oval" and dietitian Kim Rose. This piece helps families understand the health benefits of food and gives them a nutritious recipe to try.

Understanding the connection between what we eat and how we feel is crucial. Nearly half of African American adults suffer from some form of cardiovascular disease, with Black men and women being 10 to 12 percent more likely to experience hypertension compared to their white counterparts. Moore emphasizes that by prioritizing health for yourself, you are taking care of your family. 

Misconceptions are one of the most significant barriers to adopting healthier eating habits. Many people believe that healthy eating is time-consuming and flavorless. However, Rose debunks these myths by demonstrating that nutritious meals can be quick, convenient, and delicious. She encourages using sodium-free herbs and spices to create flavorful dishes in 30 minutes or less.

In the featured recipe, the duo is making blackened salmon, yellow grits, and succotash.

Rose says the dish is designed to be lower in saturated fat and sodium yet full of nutrients and flavor, making it ideal for managing blood pressure and diabetes.

This recipe offers a nutritious meal and a way to connect with family through cooking and shared experiences.

“Food and cooking not only unite us as a family, but they also help us stay energized and healthy,” says Moore.

For more information and resources on healthy living, visit: uhc.com/yourhealth

Check out the full recipe below:

Blackened Seasoning:

1 ½ tablespoons paprika

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon onion powder

1 tablespoon ground dried thyme

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

2 salmon filets around 4-6 ounces each

1 tablespoon olive oil to brush over salmon 

1 cup of water 

 ¼ cup old-fashioned grits 

1 tablespoon of olive oil 

1 small chopped red onion

3 minced garlic cloves 

1 cup of fresh thawed corn kernels 

1 cup of fresh frozen and thawed baby lima beans 

1 pint of halved cherry tomatoes

¼ cup of chopped fresh basil

1 tablespoon red wine vinegar 

1. Preheat your oven to 425º.

2. Combine blackening spices in a small bowl.

3. Pat the salmon dry and place it skin-side down on an oiled baking dish.

4. Top each filet with the spice mixture then gently rub over each salmon filet.

5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, then broil for 2-3 minutes for a nice crust on top.

1. Bring 1 cup of water to a boil.

2. Add ¼ cup of grits.

3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Optional: add sea salt, dry parsley, or Italian seasoning for flavor.

1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Cook onions until softened, then add garlic and cook for another minute.

3. Stir in corn, lima beans, and tomatoes, cooking until the vegetables are tender.