NuVal Scoring System and Raley's-Eating Healthy in the New Year!

My favorite grocery store, which I have mentioned here before, is Raley's. Not only do they have things I like, they have a wonderful staff. If I ask the produce guy if they have something, the next time I go in its there. Many of the cashiers ask after my children and family, always making me feel at home. One of the things that was most difficult about moving to another state for a year was shopping at a grocery store that I wasn't familiar with. I know that sounds ridiculous, but if you have ever moved you know it to be true. You have to relearn the whole store.
So when I received an offer from Raley's to try food and tell people about it I was ecstatic. I am not even joking. I love this store, I love trying new things, and I love eating! Sounds like a dream job-right? I have always thought that if I could pick anything to do it would be developing and demonstrating recipes at a local grocery store. It just sounds like fun to me.
Raley's is trying to get the word out about the NuVal system. Foods are rated based on 30+ factors, even taking healthy benefits into consideration. For example, we all know salmon has Omega-3 fatty acids, but that's not figured in on the nutrition information. Whole grains aren't listed there, either, but both of the previously mentioned items have countless benefits, which would help them to attain a high score on the NuVal system. Tabasco has no fat or calories, but does that make it good for you? This system will help you know, without having a degree in nutrition. Somebody had a good idea-right?
As an ode to the NuVal system, I have put together some links to recipes, and a few quick ways to prepare some of the highest ranking foods.

Apples: Score-96
For a healthy snack mix peanut butter, nonfat greek yogurt, honey, and cinnamon to dip apples in.
Tomatoes: Score-96
Tomato and Zucchini Gratin
Roasted Tomato Soup

Quinoa and Cucumber Salad with Tomatoes (Vegan)

Butternut Squash: Score-100
Butternut Squash and Applesauce Muffins

Broccoli: Score-100
Broccoli Slaw Salad with Bacon 



Asparagus: Score-100
Shaved Asparagus Salad Appetizer

Berries: Score-mostly 100
Berry Parfaits with Angel Food Croutons
Homemade Strawberry Shortcakes
Easy Morning Muffins with Lemon and Fresh Berries

Hope you enjoy!