One of the key recommendations the U.S. Department of Agriculture made in its 2010 dietary guidelines was that Americans should increase their fruit consumption as part of an overall healthful diet plan, which also should include the consumption of more foods rich in potassium and calcium. When you combine bananas and apples, you're well on your way toward meeting those USDA goals. If you prefer to cook your fruits instead of eating them raw, you can still adhere to a healthful eating plan.
Benefits
Apples and bananas are nutritionally dense fruits that are low in calories. Apples supply you with vitamin A, vitamin B-6, vitamin C, vitamin K and folate as well as calcium, iron, magnesium phosphorus and potassium. Bananas provide many of the same vitamins as apples but more than seven times the amount of potassium. Both fruits add fiber to your diet.
Bread
You're probably familiar with banana bread, but there is no reason why you can't adapt your favorite recipe and add chopped apples. For an even more nutritious bread, use whole-wheat flour. Another key USDA recommendation is that Americans increase their consumption of whole grains and replace refined grains with whole grains. Resist the urge to add too much sugar since fruit is naturally sweet. You can even experiment with adding fresh vegetables, like carrots or zucchini.
Crepes
Crepes are a classic French favorite. They can be savory or sweet. For dessert, use sliced bananas and apples as a filling, along with a bit of dark chocolate. Dark chocolate contains natural compounds that can help keep your blood pressure within normal ranges, according to the Cleveland Clinic. This is a dish that seems decadent but is filled with nutrients and provides cardiac benefits. If you prefer savory, try making a crepe that uses leftover pork roast with apples and bananas. If you are a vegetarian, use a meat substitute instead.
Butter
Apple butter is a type of preserve made with pureed apples. You can rework a recipe for apple butter to utilize bananas as well. For a healthier version, cut down on the sugar and use an artificial sweetener, such as sucralose, or honey instead. You will be able to use far less sweetener and still maintain the flavor. Your apple-banana butter can be spread on toast or eaten alone, like applesauce.
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