Chief 100% Cocoa Powder

Dark chocolate may reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease, according to information from New York University’s Langone Medical Center.

Cocoa powder has even more of the substances responsible for chocolate’s health benefits, and unsweetened cocoa has the advantage of being low in calories. It also contains essential minerals that support your heart, bones and immune system.

Top spinach salad with a vinaigrette made from vinegar, olive oil and cocoa powder, or simply add cocoa to your favorite prepared salad dressing. Mix cocoa powder with chili powder, cayenne pepper and garlic and use it as a dry rub on lean beef, chicken or fish.

Ground cloves and espresso also work well in a dry rub with unsweetened cocoa. Mexican mole sauce -- a mixture of unsweetened cocoa powder, onion, garlic, tomatoes, peppers and broth -- is served over chicken, pork and enchiladas. Use unsweetened cocoa powder in gravy, chili, stews, protein shakes and cereal.