Even if you don't call it a New Year's Resolution, most of us have some kind of plan for 2026.

Perhaps you kick it off with a Dry January or perhaps all the diet advice on social media are making you reconsider some choices. All the options can be a little overwhelming and perhaps it is the reason why we often don't stick to the intentions we had to live a little healthier or lighter.

Rather than giving in and changing Dry January to Fry January ;-), we suggest you prepare for the ultimate dry month! You can choose our Natura De-alcoholised range in its brand new packaging and enjoy the Classic Red, White and a recently released dry Sparkling to kick off your year, guilt-free. 

But how about a dry diet? What is the ultimate dry food? Nope, not crisps and pretzels! Nuts!

Nuts might be high in calories and it might be wise not to indulge with the whole packet, but they can be an essential part of a healthy diet as they are anti-inflammatory, contain unsaturated fatty acids and plenty of other nutrients. 

Nuts are a good for us as they contain:

• Protein
• Unsaturated fats to lower bad cholesterol
• Omega-3 fatty acids to reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes
• Fiber to help lower cholesterol and make you feel full, so you eat less
• Plant sterols to help lower cholesterol
• L-arginine to help lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol as well as blood vessel health

All in all, adding nuts to your diet, can help with:  

• Improved artery health
• Reduced inflammation related to heart disease
• Decreased risk of blood clots, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes
• Lower risk of high blood pressure
• Low unhealthy cholesterol 

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To manage calories, the suggestion is for about 4 to 6 servings (45 gram/serving) per week. Raw or dry-roasted nuts are recommended rather those cooked in oil. Also choose unsalted or unsweetened nuts. Walnuts, almonds, macadamia, hazelnuts and pecans seem to be the best choices (Get the nutritional info here).

The different types of nuts all have their individual taste profiles too. Cashews and macadamias are mild, but buttery. Walnuts and pecans are rich and earthly. Having different flavour profiles and textures, mean that nuts can play an important role in recipes and even influence wine pairings.  

Pairing Nuts with Wine

We love these ideas:

• Almonds and Chardonnay: The nutty flavor of almonds pairs nicely with the buttery notes of a Chardonnay.
• Pistachios and Sauvignon Blanc: The slightly salty flavour of pistachios complements the crisp, citrusy notes of Sauvignon Blanc.
• Cashews and Pinot Noir: The creamy flavor of cashews pairs well with the fruity, medium-bodied profile of a Pinot Noir.
• Hazelnuts and Merlot: Hazelnuts’ rich flavour complements the soft tannins and dark fruit notes of a Merlot.
• Pecans and Cabernet Sauvignon: The earthy taste of pecans pairs well with the full-bodied flavour of a Cabernet Sauvignon.

(Read more)

Dry but not Drab

To ensure your January is dry, but not drab, try these delicious nut-inspired recipes paired with Natura De-alc Red, White and Sparkling, developed for us by Dine with Tasha.

• Natura Red with a Walnut, pear & blue cheese salad
• Natura White with Cashew chicken with green sauce
• Natura Sparkling with Pecan nut puff pastry tartlets